Illinois Art Gallery-Thompson Center

Category: Gallery

Recognizing the importance of art in the lives of Illinois citizens, in 1977 Governor James R. Thompson signed into law Public Act 80-241. This Act created the "% for Art Program", which sets aside a 1/2 a percent of the total monies appropriated for construction of state-funded public buildings to be used for the purchase of art. The purpose of the "% for Art Program" is to promote and support arts in Illinois, place artwork in accessible locations for the public during everyday activities and humanize the architectural environment by enhancing state buildings and other areas occupied by visitors and employees.

Since July 1, 1978, the state has obtained more than 600 works of art, varying in size, shape, and medium, for 25 projects located throughout Illinois. The James R. Thompson Center has the largest single collection of contemporary Illinois art, with more than 150 displayed works, which exhibit the exceptional talents of Illinois artists and restake Chicago's claim as the cultural hub of the Midwest.