Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has announced its plans to host a cicada-themed art show during the Illinois State Fair. The event is set to commemorate the rare double cicada brood emergence this summer, with Illinois serving as the epicenter.

The public art show will be held in Conservation World during the 2024 Illinois State Fair, which runs from August 8 to 18. The IDNR is inviting entries from all age groups, with a junior exhibit for those aged 17 and under and an adult show for individuals aged 18 and above. The deadline for entries is June 16, 2024.

"There's a tremendous amount of interest in cicadas this year in Illinois. They're fascinating insects, and I'm excited to see what artists from all over Illinois come up with," said IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie. "Artists can be as serious or as silly as they want with this challenge. Realistic, creative, wacky, whimsical, or kitsch - we're here for it all. We think the cicadas would want it that way."

The artwork should reflect the artist's best interpretation of a cicada or a cicada brood. However, AI-generated artwork will not be accepted. Artists are encouraged to use various materials and mediums such as paper, canvas, photography, charcoal, pencil, colored pencil, markers, alcohol markers, ink, acrylic paint, oil paint, oil pastels or watercolor paint.

Artwork should not exceed dimensions of 18 x 24 inches and digital submissions are initially accepted. Entrants must complete an online entry form and upload a clear digital photo of their work. Finalists will be selected by panelists from IDNR and the Illinois State Museum and asked to submit their original artwork by mail or drop-off at designated locations.

Fair attendees will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite cicada artwork via their phones. The People's Choice winner will receive a prize from the IDNR.

For more information about the 13- and 17-year cicada broods emerging this year in Illinois, visit IDNR's Division of Education online.