Local Art Scene

Hey everyone! Welcome to Williamson County, Illinois where creativity and community come together to create an art scene that’s seriously worth checking out. Located in Southern Illinois, we are more than just scenic views and historic spots. The art scene in Williamson County is alive! Adding even more charm to our already vibrant area. Downtown Marion is bursting with colorful murals that are perfect for snapping those Instagram-worthy shots. And don’t miss out on the outdoor performances happening throughout fall and winter—they’re a blast! Whether you’re into history, local art, or live music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy when you visit SI!

Little Egypt Art Association:

Looking to discover some hidden talent in Southern Illinois? You’re in luck! The Little Egypt Arts Association is a fantastic non-profit artist co-op that got its start back in 1995 with around 20 local artists and art lovers. There is so much beautiful art on display at the LEAA. You can even take a piece of it home with you! The Little Egypt Arts Centre has select artworks for sale, just ask any friendly volunteer for the scoop. If you or someone you know wants to dive into the art scene, we’ve got classes for everyone, from 5 to 85! Contact LEAA: 601 Tower Square Plaza | Marion, IL | (618) 998-8530 littleegyptarts.com | facebook.com/LittleEgyptArtsAssociation

Mural Walk:
The Mural District is a total game-changer for the arts scene in Southern Illinois, featuring work by both local and internationally acclaimed artists. This vibrant area is surrounded by a mix of cool restaurants, lively nightlife, and unique shops. Some of these murals might be tucked away in alleys or behind buildings, but don’t worry—it’s super easy to explore on foot from the main streets. Spend a day hunting down your favorite murals and snapping some fun photos with them! Downtown Murals

ThreeLine Art:
If you love checking out the local murals then you’ll love ThreeLine Art with Maddie Dieters! This young artist is seriously shaking up the local art scene with her jaw-dropping murals. Even though she’s young, Maddie’s got mad skills—her use of vibrant colors and intricate designs totally brings her art to life. Her murals turn ordinary places into eye-popping masterpieces that capture everyone’s attention. If you haven’t checked her out yet, you’re definitely missing out! @threelineart

Union Street Arts:
If you haven’t checked out Union Street Arts, you’re seriously missing out. This place is a creative place where art meets innovation. They’ve done it all- amazing murals, killer clothing designs, and even websites that pop. But wait, there’s more! They’re also behind the awesome “Art in the Garden” event, which is perfect for a day of outdoor creativity and fun. And if you’re into podcasts, they’ve got those too! Whether you’re looking to jazz up your space, your wardrobe, or just soak up some cool local vibes, Union Street Arts is your go-to spot. unionstreetarts@gmail.com | (618) 422-8868

Fish Tales Pottery Place:
If you’re into getting your hands dirty and unleashing your creative side, you’ve gotta check out Fish Tales Pottery Place! This local gem is perfect for all things crafty. Whether you’re into pottery, painting, wood art, or mosaics, they’ve got you covered with tons of fun projects. It’s the ideal spot to dive into some DIY, get a little artistic, and maybe even find your next favorite hobby. So grab your friends and head over to Fish Tales for a dose of creativity and hands-on fun! 1021 South Park Avenue | Herrin, IL 62948 (618) 942-3474

Performing Arts:
If you’re into live performances and looking for some awesome spots in Williamson County, Illinois, you’re in luck—this area has a bunch of fantastic performing arts centers that are definitely worth checking out.

First up, the Marion Cultural and Civic Center is a real gem with its diverse lineup of shows, from concerts to theater performances. It’s a great place to catch a high-quality production right in the heart of Marion. Then there’s the Herrin Civic Center, which brings a mix of community events and performances, making it a central hub for local arts and entertainment. Over in Carterville, the Carterville High School Performing Arts Theatre is perfect for enjoying student performances and local productions that showcase the next generation of talent. Artstarts Company located in Marion, is a Southern Illinois based, non-profit charitable organization devoted to making the “Arts” accessible to all Southern IL children. They host amazing musical and theatre productions and give children in Southern IL a chance to have their voices heard! They have some incredible new shows coming up so be sure to follow them for updates!

Don’t miss the Hartley Art Gallery & Event Center—this spot isn’t just about visual art; they host a range of performing arts events too, making it a lively cultural hotspot. And if you’re near John A. Logan College, their O’Neil Auditorium is a must-visit for an array of performances that range from classical to contemporary. With so many great venues around, Williamson County is definitely a place where the arts are alive and kicking!

If you haven’t checked out Williamson County’s art scene yet, you’re missing out on something super special. This place is all about blending vibrant public art with fun, community-focused experiences. Imagine strolling down streets adorned with colorful murals and cool statues that really give the town some flair. Plus, events like “Art in the Garden” are perfect for soaking up art while enjoying the outdoors. And if you’re up for getting your hands dirty, Fish Tales Pottery Place is the go-to spot for diving into pottery, painting, and more. With its mix of eye-catching art, local creativity, and engaging events, Williamson County is a must-visit for anyone who loves art in all its awesome forms!