Valentine’s Day is approaching, and while some would do anything for love, the Western Illinois University Department of Art and Design is asking: Would you make art? The university will host its first “First Wednesday” event of 2026 from 7 to 9 p.m., on February 4. Activities will be held in Garwood Hall, the Heating Plant Annex and the University Art Gallery. This event is free for students, WIU faculty and the general public.
Whether you love the holiday or think it stinks, visitors can create and explore several art troves. Projects include making bloody heart drawings, watercolor valentines, a Post-it note challenge, copper bracelets, love keychains and more.
Participants are encouraged to curate their own love anthems or breakup beats playlists to listen to while they craft. As the department notes: “Nothing Compares 2 Your Art.”
For more information on this event, contact the Art and Design Office at 309-298-1549 or email Professor Tim Waldrop at [email protected]. Please note that the Garwood Hall elevator is currently out of order. Attendees will be required to use the stairs to participate in activities located in that building.
