UPDATE: The Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art in Oak Brook, Illinois, is set to host an exciting Lapidary Day on November 8, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This highly anticipated event promises to both entertain and educate attendees, with free admission for all visitors.
During Lapidary Day, members of the West Suburban Lapidary Club will lead ongoing demonstrations and activities for all ages. According to Mary Prosek, the club’s school director, between 10 to 15 members will showcase various lapidary techniques. Visitors can witness live demonstrations of rock cutting and polishing, as well as experience faceting and wirework. “We have a guy that’s going to be doing faceting,” Prosek stated, emphasizing the variety of skills on display.
Attendees will also have the chance to try their hand at lapidary art, with opportunities to engage directly with club members. “A lot of people don’t know what lapidary is,” Prosek noted, highlighting the event’s role in raising awareness about this unique art form.
In addition to the demonstrations, there will be craft projects for children, including a special surprise from instructor Jose Ponce, who will create small, cut hearts from soft rock for young visitors. “I’ve been a rockhound since I was a little kid,” Prosek shared. “This hobby keeps me busy, and I think it’s important for everyone to have a hobby that they enjoy.”
Museum educator Sara Kurth explained that Lapidary Day is an annual event aimed at introducing the public to the fascinating world of lapidary art. “It gets people in the door,” she said, underscoring the event’s significance in promoting the museum’s mission.
Kyle Brill, the museum’s executive director, stated that this event is crucial for showcasing the intricate skills involved in lapidary. “It’s a very difficult art if you’re not initiated,” Brill remarked, adding that the museum’s collection features pieces created both by nature and human hands.
Lapidary art has deep historical roots, dating back to the Stone Age when early humans polished stones for tools. “In a world where everything is digital and transitory, lapidary gives you something solid and real in your hands,” Brill emphasized.
The Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, located at 1220 Kensington Rd., has been a cornerstone for lapidary enthusiasts since moving to its larger, fully accessible facility in Oak Brook in November 2019.
As the countdown to Lapidary Day continues, the museum encourages everyone to attend this unique and enriching experience. For more information, call 630-833-1616 or visit lizzadromuseum.org. Don’t miss this chance to explore the beautiful intersection of nature and art!