A Pop Up Gallery was recently installed by members of School District 130's Art Department and is currently featured at an empty storefront located at 12836 S. Western in Blue Island. The storefront space was donated by Jennie Malysa, mother of Amy Malysa, the head of youth services at the Alsip-Merrionette Park Public Library. The window display features artwork from several schools in the district, along with posters about art advocacy and how the visual arts are essential to education in the 21st century.

“A Pop Up Gallery in Blue Island is a wonderful way to make a connection between the schools and the community,” said Alison Rich, an art teacher at Kerr Middle School. “The students involved see that their talents are recognized, and it makes them feel proud to have their art displayed in such a prominent place.”

Pop up galleries create temporary art spaces and are an innovative means to activate vacant storefronts with lively art that benefit pedestrians, property owners, and artists. The display will remain until after New Year's so come check out the artwork of District 130 students!

Cook County School District 130 serves nearly 4,100 students at thirteen school sites. The district serves portions of the communities of: Alsip, Blue Island, Crestwood and Robbins.