MARSHALL, Ill. (WCIA) — For 16 years, the Gaslight Art Colony in Marshall has been a haven for artists of every age group. This non-profit organization is dedicated to fostering creativity and sustaining art shows.

“People often see me more as a painter,” shared Jo Rich-Vadas, who helped establish the gallery. “When we were choosing a name, our town just installed a new cityscape, which includes a gaslight right outside our door.”

Since 2009, the non-profit has been an outlet for the arts. There are more than 150 adult members and more than 50 students.

“It’s been a dream come true,” Rich-Vadas said.

The gallery boasts a collection of art pieces inside, and the creativity spills over into the community with artworks scattered throughout Marshall. If you explore the town, you’ll spot 40 painted lions, symbolizing the high school mascot and celebrating what makes the community exceptional.

“There’s a lion at Cork Medical Center donning a surgical mask, and another dressed in a police uniform at the station,” detailed John Hasten, the mayor of the city.

Whether engaging in painting, weaving, or designing community-wide art projects, Rich-Vadas wishes others may find the same peace in art-making that she’s enjoyed over the years.

“I think art is very important,” she said. “It’s a great outlet for people.”

The WCIA team will be in Marshall at the city’s Autumn Festival on Friday from 5-7 p.m. The festivities continue on Saturday and Sunday as well.

The Gaslight Art Colony adds to the festival by hosting the “Black Light Glow Show,” featuring creative works from students of all ages. For additional information, click this link.