Project 1612 is proud to present artist Barbie Perry for her solo exhibition titled node on Saturday, October 17th from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the backyard location in Morton, Illinois. Following a week-long artist residency, Perry will respond to the outdoor exhibition setting, interacting with the garden and yard as she sees fit for her work. Perry will give an artist talk at the Peoria Public Library Main Branch (date listed below).
About
Barbie Perry (she/her) is a contemporary artist and a founding member of North Arts Studio in Peoria, Illinois. She uses natural and castoff materials, often collecting discarded items like egg cartons, medical packaging, and acorns from friends to reuse in her practice. Through a multidisciplinary approach, Perry creates work heavily focused on the intersection of social justice and feminism. Starting in her mid-50s, Perry quickly became involved in the local Peoria art sense by becoming a Resident Artist at the Prairie Center of the Arts. During her three-year tenure, she was introduced to a wide variety of mediums and honed her skills in adventure and experimentation, assisting other resident artists along the way. Perry’s practice is influenced by contemporary women and queer artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. She has been the recipient of several awards in regional exhibitions, has shown in juried group shows at Woman Made Gallery in Chicago, had a solo exhibit at the Contemporary Art Center of Peoria, and participated in the 2025 Terrain Biennial as artist and host.
Project 1612 exhibitions are organized by co-founders Jessica Ott and Alexander Martin. The 2026 residencies and exhibitions are sponsored by Big Picture Initiative, a Peoria, Illinois grassroots 501(c)(3) organization “formed by a group of dedicated volunteers who believe that art has the power to change our community.”
Dates
Project 1612 events are free and open to the public. Exhibitions are outside (weather permitting). Modifications to events will be posted on social media via Instagram and Facebook.
October 13th through 17th
Artists-in-residence in Morton, IllinoisFriday, October 16th at 4:00 p.m.
Artist Talk at the Peoria Public Library Main Branch
107 NE Monroe St, Peoria, IllinoisSaturday, October 17th from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Project 1612 exhibition
Artist talk beginning at 4:30 p.m.
813 East Jefferson Street, Morton, Illinois
Websites and Social Media
Project 1612
Located at 813 East Jefferson Street, Morton, Illinois, 61550. Street parking is available. Additional information and updates can be found on Instagram and Facebook.