ARTEAST Oct. 16 & 17 - 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Each Day!
ARTEAST was initiated in 1998 by a group of artists as a way to pool their resources and bring
attention to the extraordinary artists in the Metro East area of St. Louis. Now in its 13th year,
ARTEAST continues as an event designed to showcase the artists who live and work in Madison County,
Illinois.
Artists from this region participate by opening their
studios to the public or participating in exhibits. Over 150 artists working in a wide range of
disciplines including collage, painting, ceramics, photography, printmaking, sculpture, glass and
digital media show their work and demonstrate their craft.
The venues (where the art is displayed) include buildings with historical or architectural interest,
as well as local art galleries and shops.
Organized as a self-guided tour for patrons, ARTEAST provides an opportunity to get a glimpse into
the workspace, inspiration and techniques of our resident artists, while exploring the neighborhoods,
historic city centers and beautiful countryside.
During ARTEAST you might decide to studio hop, stroll the downtown areas or embark on a mission to
uncover that “must find” piece.
Madison County is home to an exciting, lively and diverse art scene due in part to the strong Art
Departments at both of the local colleges - Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, and Lewis
and Clark Community College. Through ARTEAST, nationally recognized artists exhibit along side emerging
talent. According to Susan Bostwick, ARTEAST event coordinator, “The works of the area’s artists
challenge any preconceived notion of what might be found. Indeed, viewers see the passion for the land
reflected in the artists’ work, but yet there are many artists who will surprise viewers with
contemporary and innovative pieces."
