Applications Being Accepted For MADE IN ILLINOIS Catalog

SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan today announced applications are available for the new Made in Illinois catalog, which features Illinois artisans and their work.

"An appreciation of the arts contributes heavily to our state's outstanding quality of life," said Mrs. Ryan. "This catalog will showcase splendid works from Illinois craftsmen while displaying some of the state's tourism treasures." Mrs. Ryan first started the popular Made in Illinois program nearly 10 years ago. The publication, to be published this year, will be divided into tourism regions, tying together the artist, their studios or galleries, and regional tourism attractions.

The planned catalog will feature narratives and photos of the artists, their work and tourism attractions in their local areas. Catalogs will be available free of charge through the state's tourism hotline, the State of Illinois Website, convention and visitor bureaus, and at Illinois Artisan Shops in Chicago, Springfield, Lewistown, and Rend Lake. The catalog will instruct buyers to contact the artists directly.

"Local artistry is just one component of cultural heritage tourism, which is expected to be one of the fastest growing segments of the tourism market," said Pam McDonough, Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs. "This publication will highlight the skills of Illinois artists and promote the state's rich, natural resources."

A jury will select which artists will be featured in the catalog. There is no cost associated with either applying or being included in the catalog, which will be featured as part of DCCA's tourism advertising for the 2000 Holiday season. Artists wanting further information about Made in Illinois should call 217-785-7823.