The Urge to Embellish

The Urge to Embellish presents an eclectic array of new acquisitions and rarely-seen works from the Illinois State Museum Collection, many of which were made by non-professional artists. The objects reveal how embellishment has been guided by experimentation, learned behavior, social expectations, and traditions. Included are commemorative, ceremonial, decorative, functional, and whimsical objects spanning two centuries. Many date from the mid- to late-nineteenth century when the idiom of effusive ornamentation reached its zenith and pervaded the visual aesthetics of material culture. The exhibition is comprised of 2- and 3- dimensional pieces constructed with beads, ceramics, feathers, fibers, hair, metal, paint, papier-mâché, porcupine quills, wood, and other materials.

Free to the public. Tours are available.