'Warhol Summer' In Aurora Inspired By College Of DuPage Exhibit: City

AURORA, IL — The forecast calls for "Warhol summer" in Aurora this year.

The College of DuPage's Cleve Carney Museum of Art unveiled its new Andy Warhol exhibit June 3, and it's having a domino effect in Aurora, officials said.

The show at the Glen Ellyn-based community college features 94 original works by the famed artist. It also showcases 150 photos, a historical exhibit, Studio 54 experience and, among other interactive displays, a map of New York that highlights key locations from Warhol's life.

The College of DuPage Warhol exhibit runs through Sept. 10.

About 20 miles southwest, Aurora will be "illuminated with disco balls, camera flashes, and bright colors" as part of the Color Me Warhol Summer experience, kicking off Thursday. The programming will include daily art exhibits downtown, weekly activities at venues, regular Warhol-related menu items at restaurants and monthly celebrations.

Aurora plans to attract "thousands of visitors and fans" as a result of the event, according to Clayton Muhammad, the city's chief communications officer.

The first of several events takes place Thursday with an homage to Studio 54, a former disco nightclub known for its exclusivity, debauchery and famous patrons.

The "Studio 54 on Stolp" will be held from 5-9 p.m. in the form of a block party on Stolp Avenue between Galena Blvd. and Downer Place. Guests will be able to engage with art, eat food and hear live music. A children's pavilion will feature Warhol puzzles and coloring pages.

The event will begin with an unveiling of "Leaders Who Make Aurora Pop," a series of banners and murals made in pop art style.

A ribbon cutting will take place at 5:30 p.m., followed by a performance from a Michael Jackson impersonator at 6 p.m. and an Electro Retro band concert at 7 p.m.