Personal expression comes in countless forms — a brushstroke, a custom creation, a carefully rehearsed play, or a moment of inspiration. Explore the talented local creatives who are sharing their gifts, building connections and adding a touch of artistry to life throughout the Lincolnway community.
Frankfort Arts Association
Underground, the home of the Frankfort Arts Association, is a creative hub in downtown Frankfort offering art classes, workshops, gatherings, and a retail shop filled with original artwork and artist-designed goods. Visitors can explore handmade pieces, connect with local artists, attend creative experiences, or participate in community art projects like the Little Free Art Nook. As a volunteer-run nonprofit space, Underground supports creation, education, and appreciation of the arts while making creativity accessible, welcoming, and visible throughout the Lincoln-Way area.
www.frankfortartsassociation.org/underground | info@frankfortarts.org | 312-639-6847
Spotlight Arts Collective
Spotlight Arts Collective's Developing Artist program inspires young performers through professional theatre education and live performance opportunities that build creativity, confidence, collaboration and self-esteem. Summer offerings served a range of ages and experience levels, including Developing Actor's Day, Tiny Tots Theatrical Playtime, and productions of Freddie the Frog and the Jungle Jazz and Finding Nemo Jr. Teen performers also participated in the "This Is Me: 2" intensive workshop. Spotlight's creative work also supports local charities, scholarships and other community philanthropic initiatives.
www.spotlightac.com | emilym-a@spotlightac.com | 815-463-7768
Creative Artists Studio
Diane Mondrella, founder of Creative Artist’s Studio, believes art is a powerful way for children to explore creativity, build confidence and express themselves. She teaches drawing and painting techniques to young artists ages 7-15, offering classes that explore mediums including acrylics, watercolor, oils, pencil and charcoal. With a background in art education and studies through the New York School of Interior Design and Architecture, Diane brings years of experience teaching children in grades 1-8. She also leads preschool art classes at the KidsWork Children’s Museum, participates in community events and is currently creating a mural project for Trinity Services.
www.creativeartistsstudio.com | diane@creativeartistsstudio.com | 815-258-0530
Curtain Call Theatre
Curtain Call Theatre is a vibrant community theatre where community involvement is central to our mission. Participation is welcome at every level—whether performing, helping with set and stage construction, costumes and props, or supporting the theatre as patrons. Located in downtown Mokena, the theatre hosts 6-7 productions annually, along with Improv Nights, children’s programming, and workshops for all ages. Also offered is a summer theatre camp, providing over 130 children the chance to learn and perform under the guidance of talented staff.
www.ccctheatre.com | info@ccctheatre.com | 708-607-2281
Aura Permanent Jewelry
Aura Permanent Jewelry creates custom, everyday pieces designed to celebrate life’s special moments. Using high-quality sterling silver and gold-filled chains, Aura’s permanent jewelry is crafted for comfortable, long-lasting wear with proper care.
In addition to individual appointments, Aura offers private parties, pop-ups, bridal events and permanent jewelry experiences for birthdays, celebrations and other special occasions. Whether marking a milestone or simply adding a personal touch to your everyday style, Aura helps guests create a piece of jewelry that is uniquely theirs.
www.aurapermanentjewelry.com | info@aurapermanentjewelry.com | 630-796-9312
Sacred Ink Studio
Founded by Mike Luera in 2002, Sacred Art Studio is a creative space where art, expression and community come together. With more than 30 years of tattooing experience and a lifelong passion for painting, Mike shares his artistic talents through murals, classes and community projects. His work can be seen throughout New Lenox, including murals at seven local schools and a recent mural celebrating the community. The studio showcases more than 100 of Mike’s original paintings and offers art classes for children, teens and adults, along with private parties and creative experiences.
www.facebook.com/SacredArtStudios | 815-280-5918
Down Home Guitars
Down Home Guitars is a destination for musicians of all ages and skill levels, offering instruments, lessons and opportunities to connect through music. Through the Down Home Music School, students receive personalized instruction in a welcoming environment from experienced instructors who help musicians achieve their creative goals. Lessons are available in person or online and include guitar, bass, piano, violin, drums, voice, ukulele, banjo, mandolin, harmonica, and more. Beyond lessons, Down Home Guitars brings the community together through open mic events and a shared love of music.
www.downhomeguitars.com | www.facebook.com/DownHomeGuitars | 815-469-6321
Carriage House Auto Restorations
Carriage House Auto Restoration combines craftsmanship, expertise and a passion for automotive history to bring classic and custom vehicles back to life. As a premier restoration shop, Carriage House has created nationally recognized, award-winning vehicles while earning a reputation for exceptional quality and attention to detail. Beyond full restorations, the team provides maintenance and repair services to help owners continue enjoying their classics, including mechanical, electrical, body and interior work. Whether preserving a treasured vehicle or restoring it to its former glory, Carriage House delivers skilled service for automotive enthusiasts.
www.carriagehouserestorations.com | tom@charestorations.com | 815-485-6654
Axes Music Group
Established in 1999, Axes Music Group in Mokena has been helping musicians discover, create and share their sound for more than 25 years. Offering music lessons, instrument repairs, accessories and equipment, Axes Music provides resources for musicians of all experience levels. Students can receive instruction in acoustic, electric and bass guitar, drums and piano, while artists can take advantage of the studio’s professional recording space, featuring an acoustically tuned live room and multiple isolation and control rooms. Whether picking up an instrument for the first time or recording original music, Axes Music Group offers a creative home where musicians can develop their skills and share their sound.
www.facebook.com/axesmusicinc | axesmusicinc@gmail.com | 815-953-1684