Supporting Illinois' Arts Sector

The Bishop Hill Heritage Association (BHHA) was established in 1962 to preserve the historic remnants of the Bishop Hill Colony, a communal settlement founded by Swedish immigrants in the mid-19th century. Located in Bishop Hill, Illinois, the BHHA is committed to maintaining the town's unique Swedish cultural heritage and historical architecture. Among its key sites are the 1854 Steeple Building, originally intended as a hotel but utilized for various purposes over the years, now serving as the main museum and administrative office, and the 1908 Albert Krans Livery Stable, which showcases horse-related artifacts from the early 1900s. Both museums operate on a free-will donation basis, inviting visitors to explore the rich history and cultural legacy of this "Utopia on the Prairie."

The BHHA offers a diverse array of programs and events aimed at engaging the community and preserving its historical narrative. These initiatives include guided tours, family research services, and the organization of major festivals such as the Christmas Market, Lucia Nights, the Doodle Folk Music Festival, and the Chautauqua. Additionally, the association conducts workshops on Swedish folk arts and crafts and regularly features demonstrators in traditional skills like weaving and broom making. The BHHA also plays a pivotal role in maintaining Bishop Hill as a vibrant living community by facilitating cultural exchanges and supporting the restoration of historic properties.

Says Todd DeDecker, BHHA Administrator, "IAC funding is a vital part of BHHA educational programs. Because of their support, we are able to bring in musicians and other artists to our area that we normally could not afford. Due to IAC assistance, the Heritage is able to provide a variety of educational and artistic opportunities through concerts, workshops, and presentations that expand the knowledge and skills of our western Illinois audience."

In Chicago, Black Girls Dance® (BGD) stands as a beacon of empowerment and artistry for young dancers of color. The organization is now in its third year of IAC support through General Operating Support and Youth Employment in the Arts. Founded by Erin Barnett, BGD is dedicated to providing transformative opportunities through training, mentorship, and exposure. Erin's journey began at Chicago’s legendary Mayfair Academy, where her passion for dance and a desire to uplift Black female dancers began. Says Erin, “I wanted Black Girls Dance® to be a resource for Black female dancers—a space where they could share networks, build relationships, and connect with artistic directors, choreographers, and producers. My goal was to help them secure jobs—whether in concert dance or on Broadway.”

With a rich professional background, Erin made history as the first African American “Clara” in Ruth Page’s The Nutcracker at Arie Crown. Erin also performed in the original cast of The Lion King in Las Vegas, gracing prestigious stages such as Dancing With the Stars, the Daytime Emmys, and the Billboard Awards alongside Beyoncé. She has taught at Northwestern University, Roosevelt University, Columbia College, and Mayfair before stepping into the role of Artistic Director at BGD in 2015.  What began as a mentorship program has evolved into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, providing year-round arts education for over 200 students, aged 3-18. Their growth continues with a newly acquired 18,000 square-foot property (the Full Circle Performing Arts Center), where BGD plans to call its new home. 

BGD has an exciting lineup of events in the coming months. The performance ensemble is slated to showcase their talent at the South Chicago Youth Festival on February 21st at the South Shore Cultural Center, followed by the Flavors Youth Festival at the Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts on March 8th. Additionally, they will engage audiences at the Black Family Wellness Event at South Suburban College on March 21st and their 5th Annual Spring Concert on June 7th at Governors State University.