Festival Attracts More than 50 Artists Nationwide

More than 50 artists and musicians from across the nation will spend the weekend in Libertyville’s as part of the 31st annual Festival of the Arts.

The free festival hosted by the , will feature artists such as Cindy Roehrich, who has been a part of the festival since she began making jewelry in 1993.

Favorite Festival for Artist

Roehrich, who grew up in Libertyville, said she considers the Adler festival her biggest and favorite show.

“Some (festivals) are so large that you are just a number,” she said. “This is big enough but also small enough that you can walk through the artists a few times if you want.”

The chance to reunite with customers and fellow artists is also what has drawn Roehrich, who now lives in Gurnee, back for 18 years.

“I’ve always had a positive experience,” she said. “I’ve made great connections as far as customers and friends.”

Roehrich’s work features vintage jewelry that she renovates using metals such as brass and copper, and decks out with beads, crystals and rhinestones. Apart from her staple of necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings, Roehrich plans to unveil belt buckles at this year’s festival.

Element of Surprise

Libertyville painter Ben Jurevicius, who has participated in the festival since 2000, will also be returning this year. He enjoys exhibiting his work close to home because there is always an element of surprise.

“I get to see many neighbors who, when they see me, are surprised to learn that I paint,” he said. “It’s not something I wear on my sleeve.”

Jurevicius prefers painting pastels of landscape settings because living in the city “tree hugging is important to me.”

Viewers may recognize some of the landscapes featured in Jurevicius’ paintings because he finds inspiration from local settings such as the Des Plaines River, and Daniel Wright Woods. 

“Some are surprised at how pretty a setting like the Des Plaines River can be,” he said. “I tell them it takes looking beyond your perception and how the light plays on it.”

Fun for the Whole Family

In addition to the artists, the festival will feature free activities for kids and performances by local talents, such as the McNulty Irish Dancers, Encore Theatre and participants from the ’s art camp.

“The festival is an opportunity for the to bring the arts to the community,” said Adler Executive Director Dianna Monie.

• Festival Schedule
• Participating Artists

For information, visit: www.AdlerCenter.org, or call: 847-367-0707.