Make • Explore • Share Your Creativity!

(This column originally appeared in the January 2015 issue of THRIVE Magazine.)

Just about all of us have our “thing.”  The thing that interests us, that we read about, devote our time to, and spend our money on.  Often it’s an activity where we work with our hands and produce something tangible like woodworking, knitting, painting, gardening, photography, beekeeping, video, robotics, or cooking.  We’re often called enthusiasts, hobbyists, or even tinkerers. 

If we’re lucky, we know people with the same passion and there’s even a club or organization for us.  Being part of a group with a common interest is the easiest way to learn new or better way to do our “thing.”  It also gives us chance to share our knowledge and creations others.

But what if you’re looking for something new or you’d like to share your “thing” with people who aren’t familiar with it?  Well, mark your calendar for an exciting new community event coming in April 2015!  

The University of Illinois Extension Office is hosting Make•Explore•Share Day on Saturday, April 11, 2015 from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. on the campus of Richland Community College.  It’s an event for people who tinker in the garage, want to get back to basics, want to see where technology can take us, or just want to learn more about new, great ideas. 

This gathering of fascinating, curious people is free for exhibitors ($1.00 for attendees).  Exhibitors must be willing to demonstrate part of their craft during the event and have a handout or web link with instructions, so participants can replicate what they see.  It’s all about sharing!  If you’d rather keep your process and ideas top secret then Make•Explore•Share Day may not be for you. In addition to demonstrating your craft, exhibitors are welcome to have items for sale on display.

To be an exhibitor, register HERE.
Deadline to apply is March 1, 2015.

For more information on Make•Explore•Share Day, call University of Illinois Extension at 217.877.6042 or email maconcountyextension@illinois.edu.  Find them on Facebook at Make•Explore•Share.


Jerry Johnson
Executive Director
Decatur Area Arts Council