Allison Peters Quinn Elmhurst, Art Museum Director & Curator

A vibrant arts scene elevates a vibrant community to the next level. The opportunity to observe, create, and connect to others through art, especially at a museum like Elmhurst Art Museum, is not found everywhere. It’s part of what makes this town unique in the western suburbs.

Director and Curator, Allison Peters Quinn, earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, followed by a Master of Arts, Curatorial Studies, from Bard College.

Since assuming her role last December, Peters Quinn aims to highlight the work of diverse contemporary artists who are building on the concepts of Modernism to create art that addresses current political, social, and environmental issues. This guiding principle emerges from the strengths of the museum’s collection of Chicago-based artists and architects, and the mandate to make art accessible for all.

“The Elmhurst Art Museum is the place to see art being made now by artists who are influencing the art coming out of Chicago and the Midwest,” said Peters Quinn. “Artists of every level can benefit from viewing the exhibits our museum showcases.”

The way Peters Quinn sees it, art is something that can be created, enjoyed, and appreciated by anyone. The sentiment is evident. “One of our main purposes is to connect art and artists in meaningful ways,” she stated.

Sharing the museum’s belief that ‘art is for everyone’, I see exciting opportunities for the institution to expand its impact through this commitment to radical accessibility.” Adults and children – artists and dabblers alike – find a variety of available offerings here through a variety of class offerings. From drawing in the Mies Van der Rohe house to Japanese woodblock printing to throwing clay on the wheel, community is built.

“The Elmhurst Art Museum was born from the willpower of community members, artists, and neighbors,” said Peters Quinn. “I love that when people come together, they can build a museum. This ethos lives on in the passion of the staff, board members, Elmhurst Art Guild, and members of the institution whose financial contributions keep this museum open.”

The museum recently launched a soft membership drive that introduces special tours to artists’ studios, collectors’ houses, and other unique experiences.