Art Fair History

The Fine Art Fair’s Beginings

The idea for a local art fair in Peoria was first envisioned in the early 1960s by Adelaide Cooley, who, after visiting Chicago’s Gold Coast Fair, felt Peoria could benefit from a similar cultural event. While the idea initially met with skepticism, it found champions in Marianne and Bob Bibo of Bibo Gallery. Marianne, an active member of the Peoria Art Guild, led the first outdoor art fair in 1962 along the Junction City Boardwalk, featuring 27 artists. Its immediate success led to 54 artists participating the following year. Under the Bibos’ leadership, the Fair grew to 120 artists over 11 years. Later, Sheryl Cohen took the helm, attracting nationally recognized artists and cementing Peoria’s place on the fine art fair map.

The Move That Mattered

In 1998, the Peoria Art Guild made a bold decision to relocate the Fair to the Peoria Riverfront — a move that faced resistance at the time. With the newly built Gateway Building and limited weekend programming downtown, city leadership had yet to fully support special events. Visionaries John and Jeff Heintzman, alongside the Peoria Art Guild, embraced the challenge of bringing art and audiences to the riverfront. By 2000, co-chairs Kim Armstrong and Cathi Hawkinson personally attending fairs across the country to promote the Peoria show. After 14 years, Hawkinson retired.

Today

Now one of the oldest fine art fairs in the country, the Peoria Art Guild Fine Art Fair draws 6,000-8,000 visitors annually and enjoys national recognition for its organization, volunteer support, and artist-centered approach. It has consistently ranked among the top nationally, including #88 in Sunshine Artist’s “Top 200” and in the “Top 50” by Art Fair Calendar. Beyond its status as Central Illinois’ premier art event, the Fair is a beloved community celebration, featuring fine art, live music, local food, and hands-on activities for all ages.

In 2026, the Fair is led by Director Megan Scott, alongside Gallery Administrator Angela Reisinger, who continue the Guild’s tradition of excellence and innovation. Their leadership, combined with John & Jeff Heintzman’s curation, ensures the Fair not only showcases outstanding visual art but also serves as a platform for community engagement, educational programming, and emerging artists. With ongoing support from the City of Peoria, sponsors, volunteers, and a dedicated committee, the Fine Art Fair remains a highlight of the region’s cultural calendar, bringing together artists, families, and visitors from across the Midwest for a celebration of creativity.