Our Story

A Legacy of Art: The History of the LaGrange Art League

The LaGrange Art League (LGAL) was founded in 1933 by professional and amateur artists from LaGrange and Western Springs. Early meetings were held in various locations, including Lyons Township High School and the YMCA.

In 1942, a building fund was established with the hope of one day opening a dedicated gallery, meeting space, and studio.

By 1961, LGAL had officially incorporated as a nonprofit organization with the mission to support its members in the study and advancement of their artistic endeavors while promoting art awareness and appreciation in the community.

In 1964, the League opened its first Art Center at 808 Arlington in LaGrange, featuring a classroom and a small gallery, operated entirely by volunteers. Unfortunately, the center closed in 1972.

In 1975, LGAL moved to a rented space at 88 S. La Grange Road, where the gallery housed two paid framers. Meetings were held at the Colonial Manor Nursing Home. While the framing department and gallery flourished, an unaffordable rent increase in 1983 forced the closure of the space.

Determined to establish a permanent home, the League launched a fundraising effort. Through generous donations, personal loans from members, and fundraising events, LGAL purchased a property at 122 Calendar Court in the spring of 1984. The building, formerly a retail shop and restaurant, was in severe disrepair. Thanks to professional services and countless volunteer hours, it was transformed into a gallery and tenant space.

In November 1984, LGAL opened its gallery and framing department to the public. Shortly after, the League introduced an art appreciation program for local grade school students.

As interest in LGAL continued to grow, the organization expanded. In the spring of 1986, the second floor was renovated to create additional space for classes and workshops. With the dedication of members and skilled professionals, the project was completed, and in July 1987, LGAL held its first official classes. That session welcomed 35 adults, 17 children, and 18 artists who attended an all-day pastel workshop.

In 1992, an extensive renovation improved the building’s facade and courtyard, adding a new tenant storefront, brick pavers, awnings, signage, lighting, and landscaping. A five-year interest-free loan from the Village of LaGrange’s T.I.F. funds helped make the project possible.

In August 1996, the gallery underwent another major transformation. Dozens of enthusiastic members volunteered to gut the interior, allowing subcontractors to complete the finishing touches. The remodeled gallery reopened just in time for the annual Holiday Boutique in November 1996, celebrated with a well-attended Grand Opening.

In 2002, the gallery was fully redecorated in preparation for LGAL’s first national competition, COLOR 2002. The League continued to expand its reach, hosting the regional call-for-entry Facades in 2011, which featured artists from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Iowa.

For over 90 years, LGAL has remained a vibrant hub for artists and art lovers, fostering creativity, education, and community engagement.