Chris Varner

Lake County

Rachel Barnes

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Highland Park

Illinois

Eric DeGrechie

Deerfield

Cook County

Northbrook

Winnetka-Glencoe

Lake Forest-Lake Bluff

Glenview

Buffalo Grove

Vernon Hills

Wilmette-Kenilworth

Niles-Morton Grove

Amie Schaenzer

Libertyville

Public art continues to shape the cultural landscape of Highwood with the unveiling of “For giving”, a new sculpture by internationally recognized artist Chris RWK. The sculpture will be unveiled on June 10, 2026 at 5:30pm at the mural park at 341 Waukegan Avenue, Highwood, followed by a solo exhibition “I Left My Heart in Illinois” by NY&nbsp;artist Chris RWK opening on June 11, 2026 from 6-9pm at 524 Sheridan Road, Highwood. 
 Created in 2025, “For giving” is a mixed media sculpture that embodies the transformative power of human connection. Featuring RWK’s iconic robot figure holding a heart, the work reflects both the act of offering love and the openness required to receive it. The sculpture invites viewers into an ongoing emotional exchange—each passerby becomes part of the narrative, taking with them a piece of the message while leaving behind their own imprint for others.
 Rooted in accessibility and emotional resonance, RWK’s work bridges street art and contemporary sculpture, bringing deeply relatable themes into public space. “For giving” continues this legacy, transforming everyday environments into sites of reflection, empathy, and shared experience.&nbsp; 
 The project is curated by <a href="https://silvertunastudios.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Silvertuna Studios</a> and <a href="https://collectwithlulu.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Collect With Lulu</a>, continuing their shared mission of connecting artists, communities, and meaningful storytelling through public art and exhibition. This event marks the two year anniversary since they partnered with the City of Highwood on the beautification project creating 15 murals, and now one special public sculpture.&nbsp; Join us to welcome our talented artist, view a meaningful collection of of works, and enjoy local wine from our friends at <a href="https://www.lynfredwinery.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Lynfred Winery</a>.
 ABOUT CHRIS RWK: Chris RWK is a New York City–based visual artist whose work bridges street art, pop culture, and introspective storytelling. From an early age, he absorbed the imagery of comic books, sci-fi, film, television, and music, storing those visual impulses in what he describes as his “mental journal.” Those collected images now act as fuel for a visual lexicon built around his signature robot icon.
 As a child of the late ’70s and ’80s, Chris’s earliest sketches emulated cartoons and comic strips; by his early teens, he was tagging walls around Staten Island and photographing graffiti outside his door. Over time, letters gave way to characters — the robot figure came to symbolize emotional states, resilience, vulnerability, and the tension between machine and humanity.
 The name Robots Will Kill was coined during a residency in Vermont in 1999. The phrase crystallized an idea: repetition can numb you, turning once-vibrant acts into mechanical ritual. Chris adopted the name publicly in 2001, launching RobotsWillKill.com as an open platform for creators overlooked by traditional galleries and institutions. “You wouldn’t give us space, so we built one,” he later reflected. Over time the site evolved into a collective, uniting artists across the globe who shared a DIY, emotionally resonant approach.
 Above all, Chris remains committed to the idea that art is for everybody. Through RWK he advocates for recognition of underrepresented artists, pushes back on exploitative “exposure” deals, and insists that artists know their value.
 He is active in exhibition circuits — both solo and group — with galleries like Harman Projects, SUYE, and Silvertuna Studios. He is also one of the primary artists at the Freedom Tower in New York.&nbsp; Chris is proud to be part of the Highwood city beautification project with a mural and now a sculpture in the heart of the city. 
Event Details: Sculpture Dedication: June 10, 2026 at 5:30pm at 341 Waukegan Road, Highwood, IL 60040
 Exhibition Opening Reception: June 11, 2026 from 6-9pm Collect With Lulu &amp; Silvertuna Studios 524 Sheridan Road, Highwood, IL 60040
 For press inquiries, interviews, or catalogue requests, please contact: lulu@collectwithlulu.com silvertunastudios@gmail.com 646-753-2712

Local Event: Chris RWK 'I Left My Heart in Illinois' Solo Exhibition

Chris RWK 'I Left My Heart in Illinois' Solo...

Public art continues to shape the cultural landscape of Highwood with the unveiling of “For giving”, a new sculpture by...

Chris RWK 'I Left My Heart in Illinois' Solo Exhibition

Join us for an exclusive two-day Cartier Eyewear Trunk Show hosted at Eye Magic By Michael Scott in Highland Park, IL!
 Discover the newest Cartier luxury eyewear collection, including limited and hard-to-find pieces available only during this special event. Experience timeless craftsmanship, elevated style, and personalized styling in an intimate luxury setting.&nbsp;
-Exclusive Cartier&nbsp;eyewear collections
-One-on-one styling consultations
-Special event selections
-Luxury hospitality &amp; refreshments&nbsp;
-First access to new arrivals
-View the entire collection
Event Dates:
Friday , June 12 | 5PM - 8 PM
Saturday , June 13 | 10AM - 5PM&nbsp;
(847)433-9116
<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm&amp;fs=1&amp;to=Eyemagicbymichaelscott@gmail.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Email Us</a>
Appointments are recommended as space is limited.
Experience timeless elegance with Cartier.

Local Event: Cartier Eyewear Trunk Show @ Eye Magic By Michael Scott

Cartier Eyewear Trunk Show @ Eye Magic By...

Join us for an exclusive two-day Cartier Eyewear Trunk Show hosted at Eye Magic By Michael Scott in Highland Park, IL!
...

Cartier Eyewear Trunk Show @ Eye Magic By Michael Scott

Do-Rite Donuts is coming to you on Saturday, June 13th! Enjoy a wide variety of freshly baked artisanal donuts in unusual flavors - with seasonal, gluten-free, and vegan options available.
Order by 10pm on Friday. Your order will be available for home delivery between 6:30-10:00am.
Twice is nice! Place two or more orders for delivery on the same day and only pay the $5 DwellSocial Fee once.View menu + order: <a href="https://dwell.social/4ook9Qk" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://dwell.social/4ook9Qk</a>

Local Event: Who doesn't love donuts? Wake up and enjoy Do-Rite. Order by 10pm.

Who doesn't love donuts? Wake up and enjoy...

Do-Rite Donuts is coming to you on Saturday, June 13th! Enjoy a wide variety of freshly baked artisanal donuts in unusual...

Who doesn't love donuts? Wake up and enjoy Do-Rite. Order by 10pm.

Ragdale, the nationally acclaimed artists’ residency program, located on the former Arts and Crafts country estate of architect Howard Van Doren Shaw, offers tours of the historic Ragdale House. Participants will learn about the Shaw family history and the celebrated artist in residence program. Visitors can experience the seven-acre site which includes three historic homes, several artist studios, gardens and vistas of the 50-acres Shaw Prairie. The Ragdale House and the Barn House, originally built in 1897, are both listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tour donations help to support the mission of Ragdale.
ADMISSION: $15/person and online reservations must be made in advance

Local Event: Public Tour of the Historic Ragdale Campus

Public Tour of the Historic Ragdale Campus

Ragdale, the nationally acclaimed artists’ residency program, located on the former Arts and Crafts country estate of architect...

1036 Willow Rd, Northbrook, IL 60062

Date: Monday, June 15thTime: 12:00 PMJoin us for an afternoon of fun, fresh-baked treats, and celebration at the Grand Opening of&nbsp;Auntie Anne's &amp; Cinnabon in Northbrook. Enjoy exclusive grand opening promotions throughout&nbsp;the day, music, photobooth, balloon artist, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 12:00 PM as we officially welcome these two iconic brands to the community.Plus, three lucky guests will win a Golden Pretzel Pass redeemable for a free pretzel every&nbsp;week for a year! Bring your family and friends and help us celebrate this exciting addition to&nbsp;Northbrook while enjoying the festivities, prizes, and fan-favorite treats that have made Auntie&nbsp;Anne's and Cinnabon beloved across the country.

Local Event: Auntie Anne's & Cinnabon Northbrook Grand Opening!

Auntie Anne's & Cinnabon Northbrook Grand Opening!

Date: Monday, June 15thTime: 12:00 PMJoin us for an afternoon of fun, fresh-baked treats, and celebration at the Grand Opening...

The nationally and locally acclaimed Pequod's Pizza is coming to Deerfield on Wednesday, June 17th! Note that pizzas will be PAR BAKED, with Pequod’s world-famous caramelized crust and will be available for PICK UP at 5:30pm at 1645 Overland Trail. Pequod's was just named the "Best Pizza in the US" by Yelp!
Order by 12pm on Wednesday. But don't wait until the last minute to place your order, because these events sell out!
Twice is nice! Place two or more orders for delivery on the same day and only pay the $5 DwellSocial Fee once.View menu + order: <a href="https://dwell.social/4oir1hK" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://dwell.social/4oir1hK</a>

Local Event: The famous Pequod's, caramelized crust pizza is heading your way. Order by noon.

The famous Pequod's, caramelized crust pizza is...

The nationally and locally acclaimed Pequod's Pizza is coming to Deerfield on Wednesday, June 17th! Note that pizzas will be...

The famous Pequod's, caramelized crust pizza is heading your way. Order by noon.

Downtown Highland Park

Sip, Shop &amp; Stroll Through Downtown Highland Park
The Highland Park Wine Stroll returns Thursday, June 18 for an evening of wine tastings, exclusive shopping deals, light bites, giveaways, and fun experiences at local businesses throughout downtown Highland Park.
Guests will enjoy wines from Vin Chicago and Lynfred Winery while exploring participating shops and special pop-up experiences along the stroll. New this year: a limited VIP Wine Experience featuring exclusive wines, live music, and light bites before the main event begins.
Perfect for a girls’ night out, date night, or summer evening with friends.
Thursday, June 18 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM (VIP starts at 4:30 PM) Downtown Highland Park Limited tickets available on Eventbrite Must be 21+ for wine tastings

Local Event: Highland Park Wine Stroll

Highland Park Wine Stroll

Sip, Shop & Stroll Through Downtown Highland Park
The Highland Park Wine Stroll returns Thursday, June 18 for an evening of...

The 2026 Ragdale Ring Summer Performance Series kicks off on June 20 with a world premiere dance performance of Circle of Apathy by Chicago-based dance ensemble House of DOV and soul-funk music collective Family Junket.&nbsp;Set in and around the award-winning "Ragdale Ring" created by Virginia-based design studio Gluten, Circle of Apathy is a site-specific outdoor performance on Ragdale's historic campus. Attendees are welcome to arrive early for a picnic on the lawn and explore the grounds.

Local Event: Kick-off weekend for Ragdale Ring Summer Performance Series

Kick-off weekend for Ragdale Ring Summer...

The 2026 Ragdale Ring Summer Performance Series kicks off on June 20 with a world premiere dance performance of Circle of...

Kick-off weekend for Ragdale Ring Summer Performance Series

Enjoy a special time out at Ragdale's Family Day!

Fun for everyone, the day's program includes performances of the comedy show Well-Balanced Dads, the world premiere of Circle of Apathy by Chicago-based dance group House of DOV, live music by Family Junket, crafts with Ishti Collective, and more. Picnicking on campus is permitted, and touring Ragdale's historic grounds is encouraged.

The program is part of the Ragdale Ring Summer Performance Series kick-off June 20-21 and is part of the celebration of Ragdale's 50th anniversary.

Local Event: Ragdale Family Day at Ragdale Ring Summer Performance Series

Ragdale Family Day at Ragdale Ring Summer...

Enjoy a special time out at Ragdale's Family Day!

Fun for everyone, the day's program includes performances of the comedy show...

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