Long before the era of social media, Lake Bluff’s artists, writers, musicians and entertainers were shaping culture in powerful and enduring ways. This fall, Lake Bluff History Museum will open a new exhibit, “Influencers,” exploring how this small village on Chicago’s North Shore became a wellspring of creativity and influence — and how that spirit continues to define Lake Bluff today. The exhibit opens in mid-October.
In 1915, Lake Bluff stood at a crossroads. War was raging in Europe, the United States was determined to remain neutral, and the Village itself was transforming from a bustling summer resort into a North Shore suburb. While Lake Bluff carried a reputation as a conservative, Prohibition-minded community, it was also home to a bohemian enclave of artists, musicians and literary figures. Drawn by a uniquely collaborative atmosphere where creativity thrived, these residents formed a community near the lake known as The Artists Colony.
Their impact extended well beyond Lake Bluff. Building on a legacy of artistic expression dating back to the Chautauqua-inspired camp meetings of the late 19th century, the Artists Colony helped shape the region’s cultural identity and left an imprint that continues to ripple through Lake Bluff and beyond.
The Museum’s “Influencers” exhibit will showcase the writers, poets, illustrators, painters, musicians and actors who have called Lake Bluff home from the early 20th century to today. Through artifacts, stories and visuals, visitors will discover how the village became — and remains — a hub for creative expression.
“Influencers” opens October 19 at Lake Bluff History Museum, 127 E. Scranton Avenue, Lake Bluff. Museum hours are Monday through Thursday from 1 to 4 pm and Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 1 pm.