Flossmoor's 'Barrels of Hope' Now On Display

FLOSSMOOR, IL — The Flossmoor Public Art Commission’s Barrels of Hope community art exhibit is now on display across Flossmoor. The barrels are officially available for purchase via the Flossmoor Public Art Commission’s online auction, according to the village.

The Barrels of Hope exhibit features 23 bourbon barrels that are designed and painted by local artists and displayed in Downtown Flossmoor, and Flossmoor Commons. Each barrel is a representation of the artist’s vision of love, inclusion, hope and community, according to the village.

“The idea of the Barrels of Hope is that this is Flossmoor; this is who we are, this is what we stand for,” said Nancy Burrows, Flossmoor Public Art Commission Chair. “I’m really impressed by the differences in the artwork, but I’m also amazed and happy with the fact that they really do share similar messages. Those messages are very positive, upbeat and hopeful.”

The exhibit takes after the Northern Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Project, according to the village. Flossmoor's Barrels of Hope engage local artists to paint the barrels with messages of hope and inspiration, and will be on display until Sept. 11. The public auction will close at 8 p.m. on Sept. 11, according to the village.

The Public Art Commission gave a preview of the program in 2020 with six barrels to generate enthusiasm and anticipation for the full launch, according to the village. Similar to Flossmoor’s sculpture collection, parks and green spaces, the painted barrels are "eye-catching pieces of art that are aimed at attracting people to the community and the local businesses."

"I am extremely proud of the display and thankful to the artists who gave their time for this project. It represents their love for this Village and their love of public art," said Mayor Michelle Nelson. "Time will tell what this project will do, but our goals are to raise money to help fund public art, create interest and inspire people, to make them feel hopeful and optimistic about the future, and to create interest in our small businesses throughout Flossmoor."

Flossmoor’s Barrels of Hope project is sponsored and supported by the Flossmoor Public Art Commission, the Flossmoor Public Works Department, the Homewood-Flossmoor Park District, Flossmoor Station Restaurant and Brewery and Homewood Auto Body, according to the village. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the Flossmoor Public Art Commission, which places outdoor sculpture through the community.

Visit www.charityauctionstoday.com/a... to view all 23 barrels and to place a bid. Visit www.artflossmoor.com to learn more about the Flossmoor Public Art Commission and the Flossmoor sculpture collection.

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