Celebrate Art & Culture: Mural Unveiling Event in Downtown Kankakee
Date: Thursday, June 20
Time: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Location: City Parking Lot by Martinez Tacos [ 348 E Station St, Kankakee, IL 60901 ]
Kankakee, IL — Downtown Kankakee is thrilled to invite the community to a vibrant celebration of art and culture with the unveiling of the latest mural by esteemed artist Katie Bretzlaff. This event will take place on Thursday, June 20, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the city parking lot by Martinez Tacos. Join us for an evening filled with artistic wonder and community spirit as we reveal this stunning new addition to our downtown landscape.
About the Mural
The new mural, created by Katie Bretzlaff, is a captivating blend of painting and mosaic techniques, celebrating the natural and cultural heritage of our community. The mural's focal points are two significant flowers: the Kankakee Mallow and the Dahlia.
Kankakee Mallow
One of the rarest flowers in America, the Kankakee Mallow is unique to Langham Island in the Kankakee River. Once thought extinct, this flower has made a remarkable comeback thanks to dedicated conservation efforts. It holds deep historical ties with the Potawatomi tribe, symbolizing resilience and heritage.
Dahlia
The Dahlia, Mexico's national flower, is a symbol of the beauty found in our diverse community. Commonly seen in local gardens, it represents the vibrant cultural tapestry that makes Downtown Kankakee so unique.
Through meticulous artistry, Katie Bretzlaff captures the visual allure and rich symbolic meanings of these blooms. The mural, painted in a deep blue-green hue (SW 6496: Oceanside), features petal and leaf paintings with mosaic centers, creating a dynamic and textured piece.
About the Artist
Katie Bretzlaff is a celebrated artist and art educator with over two decades of experience. Holding both master's and bachelor's degrees in Art Education, she has taught at various educational levels and is an accomplished practicing artist. Her work, inspired by nature, literature, current events, and personal memories, spans multiple media, including painting, photography, mosaics, printmaking, and mixed media.
Katie is the founder of Hedgeapple Arts, an art studio and gallery in Kankakee, offering diverse art classes and creative experiences for all ages. Her commitment to community involvement and the arts is evident in her numerous contributions to local cultural initiatives.
Event Highlights
- Unveiling Ceremony: Witness the grand reveal of the mural and learn about the inspiration and creation process from the artist herself.
- Community Celebration: Enjoy an evening of art, culture, and community spirit. Meet fellow art enthusiasts and engage in conversations about the mural and its significance.
- Food and Beverages: Savor delicious food and cold beverages provided by local vendors, making the evening even more enjoyable.
- Special Guests: Representatives from Kankakee County Speedway will join us, bringing an added element of excitement to the event.
Join Us
We invite everyone to come and celebrate this artistic milestone in Downtown Kankakee. This mural is more than just a piece of art; it is a testament to the power of community, history, and cultural diversity. Be part of this memorable occasion and witness firsthand the beauty and creativity that enrich our downtown area.
For more information, please contact the Downtown Kankakee Development Corporation at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call (815) 555-1234.
About Downtown Kankakee Development Corporation
The Downtown Kankakee Development Corporation is dedicated to the revitalization and growth of Downtown Kankakee. Through various initiatives and events, we aim to create a vibrant and thriving community where businesses, residents, and visitors can enjoy all that our downtown has to offer.
