Supporting Illinois' Arts Sector

The Egyptian Theatre in DeKalb, Illinois, is a testament to both the cultural and architectural heritage of the state. Owned and operated by Preservation of Egyptian Theatre, Inc., since 1978, this historic theatre first opened its doors in 1929. Its mission is to preserve its historical integrity while serving as a regional arts center that fosters community involvement. The Egyptian Theatre's vision is to be a cherished gathering place that enriches the local community culturally and economically. Recognized for its architectural significance, the theater was named a Top 20 Illinois Architectural Treasure in 2018 and has received numerous accolades, including the 2023 Award for "Best Nonprofits to Work For" by The NonProfit Times.

On Saturday, February 7th, at 7 PM, the Egyptian Theatre will host its 9th Annual Jazz Night, a celebration of local talent and community spirit. This event will feature performances by Jazz in Progress, DeKalb High School Jazz Ensemble, Sycamore High School Jazz Ensemble, and the famed Northern Illinois University Jazz Orchestra. The evening promises a vibrant display of musical artistry, with proceeds benefiting the music programs at the participating high schools and Northern Illinois University. It’s a cherished tradition that underscores the theater's commitment to supporting local education and the arts.

Jeanine Holcomb, the Marketing & Communications Director for the Egyptian Theatre, highlights the impact of community support, stating, “Support from the Illinois Arts Council plays a vital role in our ability to offer diverse programming and give back to our community. Because of this partnership, the Egyptian Theatre can continue serving as both a historic venue and a community resource for arts, education, and connection.”

Dianna Frid is a distinguished artist whose work explores the realms of books and textiles. Born in Mexico City, Frid immigrated to Canada in 1983 and to the USA in 1999. She has been a professor in the Art Department at the University of Illinois at Chicago since 2006. Her art practice encompasses sculpture, works on paper, and other media, with a focus on asking open-ended questions about time, language, and the transformation of matter. Frid’s work reflects her experiences as a bilingual, twice-immigrant artist, and she often collaborates with literary communities and fellow artists.

Diana Frid's upcoming exhibition, "Matter Is the Nectar of Writing," at Illinois State University Galleries, will run from January 12 to March 1, 2026. Curated by Kendra Paitz, the show features new and recent works, including tapestries, artist’s books, embroideries, photographs, and mixed-media sculptures. This exhibition marks the U.S. premiere of works created in Mexico and Chicago between 2023 and 2025. It showcases Frid's interest in the interconnectedness of texts and textiles, inspired by "worm-holed" books at the Burgoa Library in Oaxaca. The exhibition will be accompanied by a range of public programs, including workshops, lectures, and tours.

Reflecting on her creative process and support from the Illinois Arts Council, Dianna Frid states, "I am truly grateful for the support I received from the IAC. With this grant, I have been able to cover many studio expenses, hire young artists whom I mentored, and experiment with new processes and materials. Without the ability to experiment, my work would not challenge me in ways that can only enhance the long-term commitments I made to my practice many years ago."