Our Mission
We bring artists and residents together to enrich our lives through the joy of art.
Request for Action
Action Needed: Sign the Letter to the Governor
by Midnight on Sunday, January 18, 2026
https://artsalliance.quorum.us/campaign/152595/
In the last several years, our state has made great strides in investing in Illinois’ Creative Future—but while these gains are significant, they remain incomplete. In a moment where federal funding for arts and culture remains uncertain and volatile, we must act now to secure the resilience of our own creative economy.
That’s why we’re calling on Governor Pritzker to propose a 20% increase to the Illinois Arts Council’s budget in the upcoming fiscal year, and we’re asking you to sign on.
We need to show Governor Pritzker that we have a broad statewide base of support for increased funding for the arts, and that our sector is organized. You can sign the letter as an individual, or as an organization if you are authorized.
Last year, we successfully protected arts funding in a challenging budget year. Current funding levels for the Illinois Arts Council represent only a miniscule portion of total State spending, amounting to less than one-half of one-tenth of one percent of all General Fund Expenditures.
A 20% increase to the Illinois Arts Council’s budget would allow Illinois to:
- Protect recent gains and prevent backsliding
- Strengthen creative workforce pathways and economic security for artists
- Ensure equitable access to arts funding statewide
- Leverage arts and culture as a driver of economic development, education, and community wellbeing
Take a quick action today by signing our letter to the Governor by the midnight January 18 deadline!
Professional storytellers share a slice of their life during an evening of entertaining and engaging accounts. Hear new personal stories from five to six storytellers at each event, the 2nd Tuesday of the month, September through May. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
Tellers' Night is sponsored by Robert's Westside located at 7321 Madison Street.
Robert’s Westside live music venue showcases artists of all generations and genres where you can engage with your neighbors, explore new music, experience community-driven events, and see groundbreaking touring artists.
The Arts Alliance Forest Park, in collaboration with the Village of Forest Park and the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce & Development will be installing original artwork on bistro tables for residents and visitors to enjoy this summer. These tables will be in Constitution Court - the heart of downtown Forest Park - with two chairs at each table for visitors to enjoy nearby drinks and delicacies in an outdoor setting while appreciating original artwork painted by local artists. Additional tables will be placed in sponsoring businesses throughout the community.
In Memory
Donna McKune was a great supporter of Arts Alliance Forest Park’s programs, especially StoopSessions porch concerts. Even after passing, Donna left a legacy to our community by making provisions for the Arts Alliance in requesting memorial donations. It is with great honor that the Arts Alliance Forest Park announces that the donations made in her honor will sponsor the public art installation, Sit and Savor, in partially funding artists in designing and painting bistro tables to be arranged and displayed along Madison Street for public enjoyment this summer.
AAFP connects local musicians with residents who want to host a 1-hour concert on their front porch during the summer months (June - August). StoopSessions are open to the public and free of charge. Dates and addresses are posted in the spring. Join your neighbors, pull up your chair or a blanket and enjoy local entertainment in the summer breeze.
StoopSessions are sponsored by Mark Hanson, State Farm Agent, 7601 Madison Street.
Mark Hanson State Farm Insurance Agency has helped individuals, families, and businesses across Illinois protect what matters most since 2010. Securing peace of mind is essential, especially as the seasons change and new challenges arise. Knowing that your loved ones, home, and future are protected allows you to focus on what truly matters: enjoying all that your community has to offer. That’s why having the right insurance partner by your side makes a world of difference. Mark and his bilingual team (English and Spanish) serve Forest Park, River Forest, Bellwood, Hillside, Riverside, North Riverside, and communities across Cook and DuPage County. .
In the news
ABOUT US
Our Board and Volunteers
Our all-volunteer board brings diverse experiences to promote the arts so that the Forest Park Arts Alliance makes a positive, cultural impact for artists, residents, and visitors of Forest Park.
Our History
This is the brainchild of long time Forest Park resident, Sally Cody, who's vision to celebrate the arts in Forest Park started with painting a rusty bridge with original artwork. Now, the Arts Alliance, a 501c3 non-profit organization, broadens its scope to bring to the joy of art to Forest Park residents and beyond .