Allison Horne's blog

The exhibit may sound gruesome, but the Midwest Collage Society believes the art in its latest show to be exquisite. The Darien-based arts group is presenting Layers 3, an exhibit of “Exquisite Corpses” — pieces of art which divide and portray the body in three distinct sections. Burr Ridge resident Eve Ozer is among the participating artists, who combined their individual head, torso and leg pieces — produced separately through a mix of art techniques, materials and collages — to create a disparate and intriguing final product.

This "Exquisite Corpse" was created by artist Eve Ozer for the Layers3 exhibit in Bloomingdale. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Ever since Laura Lein-Svencner co-founded the Midwest Collage Society in 2003, her mission has been to expose collage as a fine art. The Society has achieved that, and been spreading its creativity and talent in exhibits across the Midwest. This Darien-based club has local roots with talented artists trying to make an impact on the art world.
 

How better to spend a day relaxing and unwinding than in the company of friends.
Once seen as a solitary activity, spa visits have gained popularity as a sure bet for mellow and quality time amongst pals, as many west suburban destinations now offer packages catered toward groups.

The upcoming West Suburban Bike and Dine events endeavor to up surburbanites’ awareness of bikes as a legitimate means of transportation. Coordinator Pamela Brookstein is leading the event for Active Transportation Alliance, a nonprofit advocacy organization that works to improve conditions for bicycling and walking, and engage people in healthy and active ways to commute. The ride shows participants how easy it is to get around on a bike, while acquainting them with great local restaurants along the way.

Active Transportation Alliance members including (left-right) Craig Billington of Westchester, Mark Buczko of Westchester, Alicia Billington of Westchester, Brian Stevens of Chicago, and Nancy and Dan Brown of Oak Brook ride to various restaurants. STAFF PHOTOS BY ERICA BENSON
 

The Robie House is one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most important buildings because of the architectural revolution it inspired. Though it was built in 1910, the house remains a masterpiece of modern architecture to this day. This month, the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust is introducing an expanded selection of guest experiences for visitors to the Robie House. Brian Reis, assistant curator of the Robie House, says the new tours give guests unprecedented access to the Robie House.

Brian Reis is the curator of the Robie House, a Frank Lloyd Wright house near the University of Chicago in Hyde Park. STAFF PHOTOS BY JOHN COX

From organic ingredients to biodegradable silverware, Pizza Fusion is determined to make a difference in the world through the environment and your taste buds. The first Chicago area location of the national pizzeria recently opened in Naperville, and people are not hesitating to make the commute to see what all the fuss is about.

General Manager Katie Lagges takes a pizza out of the oven. STAFF PHOTOS BY ERICA BENSON

Tuscany’s earthy cuisine is being brought to La Grange by the family of Francesca restaurants, which opened the Italian eatery’s newest location in the village.
Dubbed Francesca’s Bellezza, the La Grange restaurant joins 17 others that have sprung up across the city and suburbs since the first location was opened in 1992 on North Clark Street in Chicago. Joanna Strag, manager of the La Grange spot, says the name — which references the Italian word for beauty — is fitting for the charming space in which the restaurant has opened.

George Avalos prepares the Rigatoni Verdure at Francesca's Bellezza in La Grange. STAFF PHOTOS BY ERICA BENSON

Berwyn actor Michael Accardo will be performing in the Marriott Theatre’s production of “A Light in the Piazza,” starting later this month. Since studying musical theater at the University of Wisconsin, Michael has had roles at the Marriott Theatre’s productions of “Les Miserables,” “Once Upon a Time in New Jersey,” and “Married Alive.” Other credits include work at Drury Lane Oakbrook, Mercury Theatre, Drury Lane Water Tower and Arkansas Repertory Theatre.

Berwyn actor Michael Accardo has a role in the upcoming production "A Light in the Piazza" at the Marriott Theatre. SUBMITTED PHOTO

The Kane County Fair returns next week with its annual promise of food, farm animals, live entertainment and other fun. Beyond the food vendors and beer garden, free ongoing daily activities include kids’ games, magic shows, 4H competitions, and a petting zoo and elephant exhibit. Use our festival round-up below as your go-to guide for information and schedules for rides and live entertainment.

A rodeo clown entertains during the Big Hat Rodeo at the 2007 Kane County Fair. STAFF PHOTO BY STEVE BITTINGER

This year, Kane County will celebrate its 141st annual fair, a perennial don’t-miss summer event for its low prices and diverse activities for the whole family. Larry Breon, who has served as President of the Board of the Kane County Fair for the past 15 years, looks forward to the fair each summer as an ongoing tradition people continue to enjoy and come back for year after year.

Kane County President of the Board Larry Breon poses for the camera. SUBMITTED PHOTO