Celebrating Art & Words in 2026
A Year of Poetry Commemorating 105 Years of Oak Park Art League
In honor of Oak Park Art League's 105th anniversary, we're dedicating 2026 to the art of poetry. Join us for a year-long celebration that bridges visual and literary arts through readings, workshops, and creative collaboration. Whether you're an experienced poet or just beginning your writing journey, we invite you to participate in this unique year long exploration of poetry.
What We're Offering
Quarterly Poetry Reading Series: Seasonal themed readings featuring local poets and celebrated voices, see schedule below.
Poetry Workshops & Writer Meet-Ups: Hands-on sessions to develop your craft and connect with fellow poets. Workshops will be offered throughout the year. Sign up on the Oak Park Art League website.
Ekphrastic Poetry Project:
Throughout 2026, writers are invited to respond to artworks featured in OPAL's gallery exhibitions. These ekphrastic poems—works inspired by visual art— will be collected and published in a commemorative anthology, creating a lasting dialogue between visual and literary artists in our community.
2026 Reading Series
Our seasonal readings invite Oak Park area poets to share their work in a welcoming, creative environment. Each event features readings from local poets and an open mic opportunity for anyone to share their poem.
Open Mic Opportunity: Following featured poets, we open the floor to community voices. Bring up to 2 short poems to share. Arrive early to sign up—spots are limited to ensure everyone has a chance to read.
AFTERGLOW
Sunday, February 15, 2-4pm
Post-Valentine's Day reflections on love, longing, and the lingering warmth of connection
OH MOTHER
Sunday, May 17, 2-4pm
Celebrating mothers in all forms—poems of gratitude, memory, and maternal bonds
IS SUMMER OVER
Sunday, August 16, 2-4pm
Transitioning from summer to fall—harvest poems, endings and beginnings
THANKFULNESS
Sunday, November 15, 2-4pm
Reflections on gratitude in any measure—poems of appreciation and wonder
