SIP HAPPENS - FOR A GOOD CAUSE
Come hang with us for a night of fun sips and snacks while we raise money for the museum!
Opening Friday, February 13th at 5:00PM
Artist Talk at 4:30PM
Today Was Tomorrow - a solo show by Kari McDonald will kick off our 2026 exhibition season. Lemuette is the artistic moniker of Rockford-based printmaker Kari McDonald. Her meditative, nature-inspired work invites viewers to slow down and find moments of calm. Her intricate designs in woodblock often feature native prairie plants, whimsical flowers, and playful critters, capturing the beauty and wonder of the natural world.
Block Printing Workshop
Friday, February 27th at 1:00PM
$50 ($45 for FAM Members)
Join artist Kari McDonald for a hands-on Block Printing Workshop and explore the timeless art of printmaking. Participants will design and carve their own wood block, then use it to create unique ink prints. Guided by Kari’s expertise, you’ll learn the fundamentals of composition, carving techniques, and printing by hand. No experience necessary - all materials provided.
Join us for a fascinating talk that explores the rich artistry and complex culture of the Maya civilization. Dive deep into the meaning behind their remarkable creations as we examine artifacts from the museum's collection.
Discover how these items served as tools of power, celebrated divine rulers, and illuminated their sophisticated understanding of astronomy and ritual life. This is your chance to see the ancient Maya world through the lens of their captivating art.
Join us for one of these two sessions-
Saturday, March 21st 9:00-10:00AM or
Tuesday, March 24th 4:30-5:30PM
Join us for a fascinating talk that explores the rich artistry and complex culture of the Maya civilization. Dive deep into the meaning behind their remarkable creations as we examine artifacts from the museum's collection.
Discover how these items served as tools of power, celebrated divine rulers, and illuminated their sophisticated understanding of astronomy and ritual life. This is your chance to see the ancient Maya world through the lens of their captivating art.
Join us for one of these two sessions-
Saturday, March 21st 9:00-10:00AM or
Tuesday, March 24th 4:30-5:30PM
Explore the captivating dual nature of Italian master Giovanni Battista Piranesi (1720–1778). Celebrated across 18th-century Europe, Piranesi revolutionized printmaking with his iconic Vedute di Roma (Views of Rome), transforming ancient ruins into sublime spectacles for the traveling Grand Tourist. Yet, he also ventured into a darker, more interior world with his chilling series of architectural fantasies, the Carceri d'Invenzione (Imaginary Prisons)—a vision of colossal, impossible spaces that continues to inspire artists, architects, and writers today. This talk examines how his unparalleled skill as an etcher united historical documentation with radical imagination, leaving an indelible mark on art and architecture.
Join us for one of the two sessions -
Saturday, April 11th 9:00-10:00AM or
Tuesday, April 14th 4:30-5:30PM
Explore the captivating dual nature of Italian master Giovanni Battista Piranesi (1720–1778). Celebrated across 18th-century Europe, Piranesi revolutionized printmaking with his iconic Vedute di Roma (Views of Rome), transforming ancient ruins into sublime spectacles for the traveling Grand Tourist. Yet, he also ventured into a darker, more interior world with his chilling series of architectural fantasies, the Carceri d'Invenzione (Imaginary Prisons)—a vision of colossal, impossible spaces that continues to inspire artists, architects, and writers today. This talk examines how his unparalleled skill as an etcher united historical documentation with radical imagination, leaving an indelible mark on art and architecture.
Join us for one of two sessions -
Saturday, April 11th 9:00-10:00AM or
Tuesday, April 14th 4:30-5:30PM
Journey to the Ancient Near East and explore Mesopotamia—the "land between the rivers"—where the very foundations of human civilization were laid.
This talk offers a captivating overview of the region that gave rise to the first cities, writing systems, laws, and monumental art. We will delve into the powerful cultures that flourished here, from the Sumerians and Akkadians to the Babylonians and Assyrians.
Join us for one of two sessions -
Saturday, May 2nd 9:00-10:00AM or
Tuesday, May 5th 4:30-5:30PM
Journey to the Ancient Near East and explore Mesopotamia—the "land between the rivers"—where the very foundations of human civilization were laid.
This talk offers a captivating overview of the region that gave rise to the first cities, writing systems, laws, and monumental art. We will delve into the powerful cultures that flourished here, from the Sumerians and Akkadians to the Babylonians and Assyrians.
Join us for one of two sessions-
Saturday, May 2nd 9:00-10:00AM or
Tuesday, May 5th 4:30-5:30PM
Embark on a captivating journey through the art of the Byzantine Empire, a millennium of unparalleled artistic innovation and spiritual devotion. This talk delves into the rich and intricate world of Byzantine art, exploring the distinct styles that defined the era, from the awe-inspiring mosaics of its churches to the exquisite craftsmanship of its jewelry. We'll pay special attention to the reign of Emperor Justinian I, a golden age of monumental works that transformed the artistic landscape. Join us as we explore how his imperial patronage led to masterpieces like the Hagia Sophia and the stunning mosaics of the Basilica of San Vitale, forever cementing his legacy in art history.
Embark on a captivating journey through the art of the Byzantine Empire, a millennium of unparalleled artistic innovation and spiritual devotion. This talk delves into the rich and intricate world of Byzantine art, exploring the distinct styles that defined the era, from the awe-inspiring mosaics of its churches to the exquisite craftsmanship of its jewelry. We'll pay special attention to the reign of Emperor Justinian I, a golden age of monumental works that transformed the artistic landscape. Join us as we explore how his imperial patronage led to masterpieces like the Hagia Sophia and the stunning mosaics of the Basilica of San Vitale, forever cementing his legacy in art history.
In this talk we will examine the reputation that followed Caracalla: considered “a common enemy to mankind”, administrator and military leader. We'll explore his obsession with Alexander the Great and how it influenced his foreign policy and grandiose architectural projects, like the monumental Baths of Caracalla. Finally, we'll consider the immense legacy of his reign, particularly the Constitutio Antoniniana, and how this single act changed the course of Roman history forever. Join us as we explore the contradictions and complexities of one of Rome's most fascinating emperors.
In this talk we will examine the reputation that followed Caracalla: considered “a common enemy to mankind”, administrator and military leader. We'll explore his obsession with Alexander the Great and how it influenced his foreign policy and grandiose architectural projects, like the monumental Baths of Caracalla. Finally, we'll consider the immense legacy of his reign, particularly the Constitutio Antoniniana, and how this single act changed the course of Roman history forever. Join us as we explore the contradictions and complexities of one of Rome's most fascinating emperors.
Delve into Ancient Egypt's Books of the Dead, essential guides for navigating the afterlife. This talk explores their purpose, evolution, and the intricate mythology within, revealing the profound meaning of death for Egyptians. Discover the roles of gods and goddesses who guided souls through the underworld as ancient Egyptians prepared for eternity.
Delve into Ancient Egypt's Books of the Dead, essential guides for navigating the afterlife. This talk explores their purpose, evolution, and the intricate mythology within, revealing the profound meaning of death for Egyptians. Discover the roles of gods and goddesses who guided souls through the underworld as ancient Egyptians prepared for eternity.
Unravel the rich tapestry of mythological narratives as interpreted by artists across centuries, all from within our museum's collection. From epic battles to divine encounters, discover how ancient myths found expression in painting, sculpture, and decorative arts, offering unique insights into the beliefs and imaginations of past cultures.
This inaugural Public Sculpture walk is a dynamic outdoor art experience that brings inspiring sculpture to the heart of our community. Featuring works by renowned artists, this event transforms Chicago Avenue into an open-air gallery, enriching the cultural fabric of our city.
The Freeport Art Museum is turning 50, and we’re celebrating this incredible milestone with a night to remember!
Join us for a special evening honoring five decades of arts, culture, and community impact. The celebration begins with live entertainment during cocktail hour at the Arts Plaza, followed by a dinner and awards ceremony at our future downtown home, where we will recognize those who have made a significant impact on the museum.
Early Ticket Purchases through July 1st are $75/person or $525/table of eight
Ticket price increases July 2nd and will be $100/person or $700/table of eight
As part of the Art in Every Stitch: A Quilt Show programming, join us for our Bed Turning Event on September 4th from 4:30–6:00PM. Gather around as featured artists lift and “turn” quilts from a stacked bed, sharing the personal stories, techniques, and inspirations behind each piece. Guests are encouraged to bring their own quilts to add to the “bed pile” and share its history in this warm, community-centered tradition.
Paint the Port 2025 is happening on Friday, August 22nd! This annual community street paint party has become a cherished tradition in Freeport, bringing people of all ages together to transform downtown into a vibrant tapestry of color and creativity.
This year, proceeds from Paint the Port will continue to support the maintenance and upkeep of the Freeport Arts Plaza, ensuring it remains a dynamic space for community engagement. In addition, we are thrilled to introduce the inaugural Downtown Sculpture Walk—a new public art initiative that will bring inspiring sculptures by both renowned and emerging artists to the heart of our city. Chicago Avenue will be transformed into an open-air gallery, enriching Freeport’s cultural landscape and making art more accessible to all.
Join us for a captivating journey into the world of Hatshepsut, the trailblazing female pharaoh who ruled Egypt with unprecedented authority.
This talk will explore the fascinating blend of ambition, innovation, and self-fashioning that defined her reign. The presentation will also address the controversial attempts to erase her from history following her death, and what this tells us about power, succession, and memory in ancient Egypt.
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Etruscans at the Freeport Art Museum!
Discover ancient Etruscan artifacts from our exclusive collection and spend an unforgettable hour exploring the rich history and culture of this enigmatic civilization.
Two dates to choose from:
Saturday, July 26th 9:00-10:00AM
Tuesday, July 29th 4:30-5:30PM
Fusing traditional influences with a global sensibility, award winning ensemble A Moving Sound from Taiwan, built a worldwide following through their joyous mix of original music and dance. Featuring the distinctive timbres of the erhu (Taiwanese fiddle) and zhong ruan (lute), and the transcendent vocals of Mia Hsieh, A Moving Sound has devised a unique and compelling style that is all their own - a Taiwanese whirlwind that veers between the meditative and the exuberant with irrepressible spirit.
Join us for a special workshop blending Tai Chi principles with the creativity of dance, led by Mia Hsieh of A Moving Sound—our final touring group from the Arts Midwest World Fest Series!
Through guided movement, Mia will introduce Tai Chi concepts like Yin & Yang, spiraling, and energy flow, leading into an exploration of personal expression and connection. This joyful, meditative practice invites you to listen to your body, move with intention, and flow with the rhythm of energy.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to move, connect, and celebrate the beauty of Eastern movement traditions!
Cost for the class is $5 per person and space is limited.
Join us for an Artist Talk with Judith Meyer as she delves into her exhibition, The Irrepressible Being of Nature, on view at the museum from February 14 to March 15. Judith will share insights into her creative process, the influences behind her work, and the inspirations she draws from nature, social issues, global events, myths, and her personal beliefs. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from the artist herself and gain a deeper understanding of her compelling and thought-provoking pieces.
The Freeport Art Museum is proud to present the stirring paintings of Judith Meyer. Her works are inspired by nature, social issues, global events, myths, and personal beliefs. Her striking manner of integrating traditional landscape formats with diverse and unexpected elements create poetic and surreal visions.
This exhibition is on view from February 14th to March 15th and is dedicated to the memory of Judith’s friend Kathleen Kline.
This is an event you won’t want to miss! Gather your friends, secure your tickets, and join us for a fun evening that supports the arts in our community.
Perfect combinations of cheese from Baumgartner’s Cheese Shop, along with other sweet and savory treats, will elevate your tasting experience of fine wines, whiskey, and other spirits expertly presented by distinguished distributors from Cork & Keg Liquors.
General Admission: $40 per person
VIP Admission: $75 per person
VIP Perks:
Enjoy an extra hour of indulgence with early entry at 6PM
An exclusive curated spirits tasting
Delight your taste buds with a selection of light appetizers
All FAM Members enjoy a special $5 off on purchased tickets!
SPECIAL THANKS TO CORK & KEG LIQUORS FOR BEING THIS YEAR’S EVENT PARTNER!
GREÑAPUNK BY EDDAVIEL is a collection of work exploring the African heritage as Afro-Caribbean in the past-present-future, a space where myths, politics and the future merge to create a new universe. Greñapunk is a show where every art form converges to talk about being Afro (Greña) in the future. The artist, Eddaviel, is from the Dominican Republic and has worked with films, advertising, publishers, galleries, museums, universities and cultural centers around the world.
PERSEVERANCE BY DICE WHITE Dice is a 20-year-old artist from Rockford, Illinois, whose current success is a testament to the human spirit surmounting the impact of a mother addicted to drugs, his own psychological distress, and the challenge of homelessness. Dice has found a life in creating art that is boldly expressive, colorful, and complex.
FAM is co-hosting the Opening Reception with CURRE (Citizens United for Rights, Respect, and Equity). CURRE is a community organization that was established in 2020 with the aim of fostering strong and equitable communities. They focus on key areas including community development, police and community relations, communications, political awareness. Recently, they have added Youth Leadership to their target areas. Through their efforts, they have helped coordinate various activities such as community block parties, informational meetings to educate the community on important issues, and most recently, a family outdoor movie night.
This exhibition is made possible by grants from the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois and Healing Illinois through a partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Freeport/Stephenson County
Join us on Saturday, September 28th for the Latin pop music of LADAMA as part of Arts Midwest World Fest. Saturday’s concert is the capstone for their weeklong residency in Freeport, where LADAMA will offer workshops in local schools and other community locations.
LOCATION: Masonic Temple Ballroom
TIME: 7:00 p.m.
TICKET PRICE: $10 — Art Museum Members receive a discount
Children under 12 are Free!
