Exhibition and free admission sponsored by Kjellstrom Family Foundation; Johnson Family Foundation, Lisa + Mark Lindman; Aqua-Aerobic Systems, Inc.
This exhibition celebrates the dynamic and innovative art scene of Rockford in the 1990s, showcasing the work of over 20 local artists who left a significant mark on the community’s artistic landscape. Highlighting the work of prominent artists such as Betsy Youngquist, Scott Long, Rick Zillhart, Matt Herbig, Lynn Fischer-Carlson, John Deill, Jim Julin, Scott Snyder, Mark Blassage, and Kim Van Laeke, the Skuggi Gallery on 7th Street emerged as a hub for unapologetic creativity. These talented artists transformed an old building into a vibrant space for frequent gallery shows, where they explored diverse mediums including installations, performance art, painting, and sculpture.
Another notable group, Paul Harvey Oswald (PHO), a collective of like-minded artists, teachers, programmers and creative people, founded by Doug Connell, and Kevin Cronin in 1992, brought experimental video installations to both the museum galleries and public spaces, infusing social and political narratives into their work and contributing to a broader movement of politically engaged art in the Midwest.
Café Esperanto, now known as Kortman Gallery, added to the cultural richness of the time by merging a cozy café environment with an art gallery, pioneered by Doc Slafkosky and Jerry Kortman. This eclectic venue frequently hosted exhibitions, providing local and regional artists with a platform to show their work, and became a beloved gathering place in Rockford’s downtown art scene.
Additionally, this exhibition will feature selections from the Rockford Art Museum’s collection from the 1990s, a transformative period as the museum expanded into its current building. This era saw the collection grow significantly, establishing a legacy that continues to be celebrated today. The entire lower gallery of the museum will be dedicated to this captivating exploration of art in Rockford’s last analog decade.
Analog: Rockford’s Decade of Creative Rebellion is organized by Rockford Art Museum Chief Curator, Carrie Johnson. The exhibition is sponsored by Johnson Family Foundation, Lisa + Mark Lindman; Aqua-Aerobic Systems, Inc; and partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.
