The Adler Center has been making the arts a part of Libertyville’s daily life since the 1950s, but what happens there day-to-day? Here are 10 things you probably didn’t know about programs and people and projects that make the David Adler Music and Arts Center the most colorful little white house you ever did see!
- You’ve Been Swimming in Mr. Adler’s Pool
When David and Kathleen Adler bought their Libertyville estate in 1918, their property stretched from Milwaukee Avenue all the way across the Des Plaines River and included the land now used by Adler Park School, the Adler Center, and Adler Park. When Adler bequeathed his house and estate to the Village, his private swimming pool became Libertyville’s public pool! Although the pool looks much different today, you can still see David Adler’s original pool houses flanking the Adler Center’s terrace and enjoy the wooded trails he designed as you walk through Adler Park. http://www.adlercenter.org/about-us/history/#Davidadler
- The Kiln is Back in Town!
After years of waiting, the Adler Center has a brand-new kiln, and a host of exciting new ceramics classes for youth and adults. Feeling a bit of spring fever? Join ceramic artist Roberta Ulrich-de Oliveira for a special workshop on April 13 and make a bud or tulipiere vase using hand building techniques with porcelain clay. http://www.adlercenter.org/attend/workshops/
- Attend a Gallery Talk without Going Downtown
Leave your Metra pass at home and join local and regional artists for monthly Gallery Talks featuring the exhibition of the month. See exceptional fine art, hear from the artist, and maybe purchase something meaningful! http://www.adlercenter.org/attend/exhibitions/
- The Adler Center Hosts Libertyville’s Annual Arts Festival
Since its inception, Libertyville’s annual Festival of the Arts has been produced by the Adler Center! Now entering its 39th year, the Festival has moved from David Adler’s terraced gardens to historic Cook Park. Over the years, the August event has expanded to include original fine art and artisan gifts by over 70 artists. This year, the Festival of the Arts will feature an expanded Main Stage featuring bands, an impressive line-up of local food vendors, an activity stage, a beer & wine tent, kids’ activities and a community mural. The Adler Center also curates Youth Fine Arts Month and Yarn Storm. http://www.adlercenter.org/attend/festival-of-the-arts/
- Do Yoga in the Gallery
Join your friends and neighbors for a vinyasa flow class in the Adler Center’s beautiful gallery. Featuring guided reflections of the art in the gallery, Yoga in the Gallery is the perfect way to nourish your body and spirit. http://www.adlercenter.org/attend/workshops/
- You’re Never Too Old (or too young) to Try a Music Class
Whether you are one-month, or one-century old, the Adler Center has a music class for you! Infants, toddlers and their grown-ups can attend the drop-in Baroque to Baby concert series, which features a new instrument each month. Enroll in a Prelude class to explore all types of instruments and sing silly songs. Private music instructors work with all ages, and adults and teens can try the superb West African Drumming Class. http://www.adlercenter.org/learn/group-music-2/
- Host an Art Party or Special Event at David Adler’s House
The Adler Center’s elegant and airy rooms can be yours for a day. Host a private art party (for kids or adults), plan an elegant shower, a small wedding, or special event. http://www.adlercenter.org/contact-us/facility-rental/
- Hear World Class Musicians in Your Own Backyard
Spanish classical guitarists, Brazilian Bossa nova musicians, flautists, pianists, and string ensembles are all part of the monthly Adler Concert Series. Join your neighbors for an evening of classical music in the intimate setting of the Adler Ballroom at a price you just can’t beat! http://www.adlercenter.org/attend/concert-series/
- Community Counts!
The Adler Center relies on community support to maintain its historic building and grow its programming. Local sponsorships, tribute and legacy gifts, and funding for student scholarships come from our creative and generous community! To learn more about how to help or how to get involved visit: http://www.adlercenter.org/support-us-opportunities-for-giving/opportunities-for-giving/
- The Adler Center is a Place with Many Names
The Libertyville Arts Center began using Adler’s home for art classes and exhibitions in 1957, and a couple decades later, in 1975, the Libertyville School of Folk and Old Time Music moved in and began hosting performance sessions and folk music classes. In 1980, the two organizations merged, and the David Adler Music and Arts Center was born! The Adler Center is sometimes simply called “the Cultural Center” by longtime Libertyville residents and Adler fans. Whatever you call it, the David Adler Music and Arts Center has always been Libertyville’s home for music and art. www.adlercenter.org
