Art Gallery

The Brent and Jean Wadsworth Family Gallery

Wadsworth Family Gallery

Mission Statement

The Brent and Jean Wadsworth Family Gallery fosters opportunities for patrons to experience original works of visual art created by local, regional, national, and international artists, including members of the Lewis University community. Exhibitions and other programming will promote aesthetic understanding consistent with the mission of Lewis University. We welcome collaborative and interdisciplinary programming that will encourage patronage, and which will enhance our reputation. The primary mission of the gallery is to educate but will also provide additional initiatives in alignment with other well-respected university art galleries. 

Feel free to contact the Gallery Coordinator, Natalie Swain, with any questions: swainna@lewisu.edu.


Hours

Open Daily 9:00am-9:00pm During Scheduled Exhibits.

Closed for Holiday Breaks. Check Facebook and Instagram for Updates on Closures.


SUMMER 2026 Schedule


August/September SUMMER

Fields in Color by John McIntire

Fields in Color by John McIntire

John McIntire is a self-taught artist who turned to oil painting later in life as a way to create and express his interest in modern art. Surrounded by talented artists his entire life, John has been influenced by his mother (grade school art teacher), Tim Ferrarell (Lewis U roommate, art major) and his brother Paul (architect, sculptor). John‘s paintings are all abstract, inviting viewers to see whatever their imagination allows. He envisions them in urban spaces – open, expressive and minimalist.

On View: June 22-August 7
Gallery Talk and Reception: June 25, 7-9pm



FALL 2026 Schedule


October AUGUST / SEPTEMBER

Coloring to Heal: Ruth Hong Art

Coloring to Heal: Ruth  Hong Art

Making art allows Ruth Michalsen (she/her) of Ruth Hong Art to appreciate the present. She lives with complex PTSD. She uses a variety of mediums, especially her own cut photographs, to depict personal experiences. Her work explores life’s themes including mental health, childhood and self-compassion. Ruth resides in Romeoville, Illinois with her husband and two boys.

On View: August 17-September 20
Gallery Talk and Reception: August 27, 7-9pm


November  OCTOBER

My Town, My Country by Bill Bartelt

My Town, My Country by Bill Bartelt

Bill Bartelt grew up in Joliet, the son of a farm dealer, in the days when it was still both a “cow town” and a “railroad town.”  The fascination for both has never left him. During a Chicago career in show business, Bill painted the rails, bridges, and watertanks that he first loved as a kid. Travels around the countryside kept him close to his rural roots, and the hills, forests and rivers have kept him sustained and inspired.

On View: October 1-23
Gallery Talk and Reception: October 22, 7-9pm


December NOVEMBER

Kathryn Gauthier and Gregorio Mejia: A 50 Year Retrospective


Kathryn Gauthier

Multidisciplinary artist Kathryn Gauthier is a graduate of Emmanuel College and Trinity Rep Conservatory. Her extensive fine art career has progressed in tandem with her interests in the performing, culinary, and healing arts. She maintains memberships and frequently shows with CAVA, CSA, and Woman-made Gallery, and is represented in art collections in Chicago and Massachusetts. www.kathryngauthier.com


Gregorio Mejia

Gregorio Mejia, a graduate of the American Academy of Art, has distinguished himself with numerous awards throughout his 50-year career. He maintains memberships in the Palette & Chisel, CSA, CAVA, and the National Portrait Society among others. In addition to his fine art career, he is an experienced muralist, advertising production artist, and painting instructor.

On View: November 5-25
Gallery Talk and Reception: November 5, 7-9pm


December DECEMBER

Senior Capstone Exhibition

Senior Capstone

The Lewis University Department of Art and Design is proud to present the Senior Capstone Exhibition. This biannual art show coincides with the capstone course, Senior Project. The course challenges graduating students to put their newly acquired skills and understanding of art to the test by participating in a professional exhibition experience.

On View: December 3-14
Gallery Talk and Reception: December 3, 7-9pm

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