Published on October 20, 2026
The City of Joliet, in partnership with Heritage Corridor Destinations, will host the premiere of The Story of Art in America – Route 66: Joliet, IL on Thursday, November 5, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Joliet Area Historical Museum (204 N. Ottawa Street). Admission is free and open to the public and sponsored by the Joliet Arsenal Development Authority.
The episode highlights Joliet’s arts and cultural community through the work and perspectives of local artists, musicians, and storytellers. Featured disciplines include painting, sculpture, murals, poetry, and music, with a focus on how art reflects the city’s history and connects its community.
Featured artists and participants include:
Uxmar Torres, Joliet’s Poet Laureate
Mariachi de Joliet
Donna Franks-Tapley, painting and murals
Beverly Wines, painting and clay
Angelica Aguilar (Cristal), Waywards Art Haus, multi-dimensional public artist and sculptor
Jayne Bernhard, City of Joliet Planning Director
Joliet Central Marching Band
The episode is part of The Story of Art in America, a series exploring arts and culture in communities across the country. It was created, directed, and written by Christelle Bois, with videography, photography, and production support from Angel Reyna.
“Joliet’s artists and musicians play an important role in our community, bringing people together and sharing our history through their work,” said Mayor Terry D’Arcy. “As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66, this film is an opportunity to recognize their contributions and share another part of Joliet’s story with visitors and audiences across the country.”
The evening will also include a screening of the shortened version of Will County Route 66 Road Show presented in collaboration with the Joliet Arsenal Development Authority. The documentary highlights the people, businesses, landmarks, and communities working to preserve Route 66 and shape its future as the historic highway marks its centennial.
Admission to the premiere event is free, with complimentary appetizers and a cash bar available. RSVPs for the event are requested but not required. For more information, please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/premiere-of-the-story-of-art-in-america-route-66-joliet-il-tickets-2003219949795.