2025 Emerging and Guest Artists

AJ Westley is an undergraduate student who is studying painting and art history at Illinois State University. During high school he was involved with the Peoria Art Guild’s MAP program, first as a student and later as a teaching assistant. His artistic practice is continually evolving but is rooted in painting and drawing figures; sometimes goofy or obscure but ultimately radiating a tender quality towards his subjects. Outside of art, AJ enjoys going to Dad-Rock concerts, reading, and watching his neighbor walk their little brown dog past his house on most mornings.

Peter Ahart is a multiple combat tour veteran who recently retired after 28 years of military service. Ahart’s work responds to his military experiences and the effects military service has on mental health; commenting on the social and political identify of a combat veteran and families. His experiences are analyzed through digital and analog collage methodologies. He earned his MFA from Bradley University, and his BFA from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. Ahart lives and works in central Illinois with his wife Eliza and two boys. In addition to being an artist, he has been involved in various pedological pursuits; teaching subjects ranging from combat medicine, community art focused events, to all ages artists workshops.

Ahart’s paintings have been exhibited in numerous solo group exhibitions throughout the Midwest. A selection of recent group and solo exhibitions include Encompass, Madron Gallery, Chicago, IL (2018), Revolving Doors, Appleby Gallery, MacMurray College, Jacksonville, IL (2019), Nonobjective, Peoria Art Center, Peoria, IL (2020), Charlie Mike, Bradly University, Peoria, IL (2021), React to Contact, Peoria Art Guild, Peoria, IL (2023), Phase Lines, Illinois Community College, Peoria, IL (2023).

Kolin Wilkins is an artist currently attending Illinois State University, he was raised in Mackinaw Illinois where he went to high school. The culture and scenery of Mackinaw and the Midwest as a whole influence the subjects that he paints. Kolin began first painting portraiture in acrylic before moving fully into oil during covid and has continued to work figuratively in oil paint into his college career. While at Illinois State University Kolin has participated in several collaborative shows at galleries such as, Julian Hall Student Gallery, the Central Illinois Regional Airport gallery, and the McLean County Art Center. His current subjects of interest are the people who influenced him while growing up and how these influences have impacted his identity as an artist and man.

A graduate of Illinois State University w/ a Bachelor of Science in Fine Art. Thomas studied, practices, & enjoys a wide variety of art mediums. He is forever grateful for studying under the instruction of talented artists and educators such as Ed Niemi in jewelry, Naomi Towner in fiber arts, Joel Myers in ceramics, and Stephanie & Susan Amster (sisters) who organized a life-changing art study tour of Europe.

    Thomas was both art director and production manager before leaving the company to begin his own hand painted silk line of ties, scarves, and clothing (skirts to gowns.) Two highlights come to mind during Thomas's hand-painted silk business: First, selling to the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum's gift shop in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Georgia O'Keeffe being both an inspiration and an idol in his mind.  The second thrill was working with another of his idols, the world renowned photographer Victor Skrebneski.  Thomas was only in high school when he first started following Victor Skrebneski's incredible work.  

    Presently, Thomas primarily works in sterling silver with semi-precious gem stones, Swarovski crystals, and glass. Jokingly he calls his jewelry making advanced "Tinker Toys," because he finds elements he considers interesting or beautiful; and then discovers a way to build them into miniature hanging sculptures. Thomas especially enjoys designing earrings, because the first earring is completely a creative process.  While the second or the paired earring is a copy or a "production" of the first creation.  This creation followed by production reminds him of his work at the Robert Daskal Group.  There artists created specific original designs, and then must put the specificities into production to fill orders. Thomas believes both creation and production have their rewards, and can be enjoyed uniquely.

Rod Wiegand, a seasoned artist hailing from the heart of Central Illinois, has dedicated the past 12 years of his life to the art of 3D metal sculptures. Born out of a passion for transforming raw materials into emotive creations, Rod's work is a testament to his unique artistic vision and unwavering commitment to craftsmanship.

Married for 32 years and a proud father of four, Rod finds inspiration in the simple joys of life and the connections formed through his art. His metal sculptures, crafted with precision and infused with a distinctive flair, have become a source of delight for those who encounter them. Each piece tells a story, capturing the essence of emotions and experiences that resonate with viewers.

Rod's artistic journey is a fusion of dedication and joy. The magic unfolds in his workshop, where sparks fly, and raw metal takes on new life under his skilled hands. The result is a collection of sculptures that not only showcase technical expertise but also convey a profound understanding of the human experience.

Beyond the studio, Rod revels in the reactions of those who engage with his creations. His greatest satisfaction lies in the smiles that light up faces and the connection forged between his art and its audience. Whether displayed in galleries or public spaces, Rod's sculptures invite onlookers to pause, reflect, and experience the beauty and emotion encapsulated in each piece.

As Rod Wiegand continues to shape metal into evocative forms, his art becomes a celebration of life, family, and the shared moments that make us human. Through his enduring marriage, the joy of fatherhood, and the artistic legacy he is building, Rod leaves an indelible mark on the world, one sculpture at a time.