Springfield, IL, May 28, 2024 - In conjunction with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and in celebration of the 120th anniversary of the Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site, Visit Springfield commissioned local artist Mario Clarke to create 120 beautiful glass blown orbs with a signature glass anchor carefully attached to the bottom that embraces the spirit of the Dana-Thomas House.

 

This new, unique program is a first for visitors of all ages and is a one-of-a-kind experience that allows you to explore and enjoy various locations and sites throughout the city, while looking for one of the limited-edition pieces.

Ten locations throughout the city will participate by having the art in various outdoor locations throughout their site. All locations will be outdoors and will be accessible.  (40) glass orbs per month will be dispersed in these locations in the months of June, July and August.  The first round of orbs will be placed June 3. 

 

Once a visitor or resident finds their glass piece, they are instructed to let us know by posting it on our social media pages that will be dedicated to the project. Then it’s theirs to keep!

 

A project like the Art Glass Adventure not only amplifies the 120th Anniversary of one of Springfield’s most treasured sites, but it allows us to have a distinctive experience with our visitors and residents with hopes to spread the excitement and 

uniqueness of our city.

  

Dana-Thomas House 

Springfield Art Association & Edwards Place

Lincoln Memorial Garden 

Vachel Lindsey Home 

Lincoln Tomb

Comer Cox Park 

Washington Park (Carillon area and outside Botanical Gardens) 

Lincoln Home Neighborhood 

Route 66 Gate 2 Experience at the IL State Fairgrounds

Southwind Park

 

Each unique, one-of-a-kind blown glass piece was created by local artist Mario Clarke. Mario Clarke received his bachelors in graphic design and photography at Illinois State University in 2017. He returned to ISU as a Grad at Large to further his passion for glass blowing. His work consists of large scale figurative and abstract bodies of work. Mario is now the first glass blowing instructor at the Springfield Art Association.

 

Learn more on the dedicated Art Glass Adventure landing page: https://www.visitspringfieldillinois.com/Landing/ArtGlassAdventure.aspx

 

 

About Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau -

The Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau (SCVB) is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Springfield, Illinois.  As a department of the City of Springfield, the SCVB markets the capital city as a unique convention, meeting and leisure destination to Visit.Live.Work.   

 

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For more information or to schedule an interview, contact Amy Beadle, Marketing Manager, amy.beadle@springfield.il.us or via phone at 217-414-1590 or 217-789-1530 x5533.