Art in the Library

Current & Upcoming Exhibits

The gallery is located in the Library Lobby and is open during library hours.

Richard Smyth: Driven to Draw

Thursday, March 25–Tuesday, May 25 • Library Lobby
RichardSmyth.net

Richard Smyth has always been interested in drawing and painting transportation subjects of all kinds, from buses and trains to ships and aircraft. Born and educated in the UK, Smyth was employed as a package designer for the Metal Box Company Ltd before emigrating to the US in the 1960s. He was fortunate to work in many studios in the Chicago area and, upon moving to Glenview, formed his own company: Advanced Illustration & Design. Smyth has recently returned to his first love of drawing automobiles. He enjoys the challenge of sitting curbside and finding inspiration in the play of light and shadow on the vehicles while meeting the owners of classic antique cars who have spent countless hours meticulously restoring these beautiful machines.

The Gift of Art

Over the years, the Friends of the Glenview Library have not only contributed more than a million dollars to the Library, they also have given artwork for designated Library locations and have donated from their own collections. When you enter the Library from the underground garage, take notice of Field Scene. This colorful, evocative painting by David W. Voros was commissioned in 1986 to hang behind the Circulation Desk in the old Library. Treasures from the past have been recently installed in the Community Room. The Navajo rug and two Native American portraits were gifts from the Louann Van Zelst family. Age dimmed their beauty, but they now have been restored by the Friends. These three pieces help us remember our country’s first settlers and the beauty and craftsmanship of Native American handiwork for everyday use. The next time you attend a Library program, make sure to view these stunning works.

Art Submission

If you are an artist interested in exhibiting at the Glenview Public Library, please submit a proposal including:

  • General description of work
  • Artist statement
  • Size of work/frames
  • All artwork must be professionally framed and fit the standards of the exhibit hanging system
  • References/other shows in which the artist has exhibited
  • Mail or email photos representative of the artist’s proposed exhibit portfolio, or provide a link to a website with an online portfolio for proposal consideration
  • Contact information, including phone number, address, and email address

A limited number of exhibits are displayed each year. Many more requests are submitted than can be accommodated. Artists should not expect that proposals to exhibit will be accepted.

Public Gallery Policy

Direct your proposal by mail or email to:
Communications Director
Glenview Public Library
1930 Glenview Road
Glenview, IL 60025
email

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