Contemporary Art Center of Peoria

Information may not be reliable

Peoria’s cultural hub featuring art exhibitions, artist studios, art instruction, literary arts, yoga & tai chi classes and weekly jazz & blues performances.

The Contemporary Art Center exhibits the work of living, innovative artists at the forefront of their fields. In fact, about 20 resident artists are constantly creating art on-site as well as prolific artist and co-founder Preston Jackson continues to maintain his sculpture and painting studio. About six times per year we hold an opening reception that is always a fabulous party featuring special performances. The 14,000 square foot facility is located on the 2nd and 3rd floors of a renovated warehouse that is ideal to house the studios of about 15 working artists on the 3rd floor and display art in three galleries. Throughout the facility, the original pillars, beams and hardwood floors have preserved the look of the structure in which it is housed. The building was originally built in the late 1870’s as a coffee bean warehouse for Oakford and Fanstock.
CAC celebrates all of the arts featuring the literary arts, fine art instruction for adults and children, yoga and tai chi classes. Attracting thousands of music lovers annually to Peoria's riverfront, events like Live at the Five Spot, featuring local jazz and blues musicians, continue to draw a crowd every Friday evening at 5:30.
The non-profit organization is located at 305 SW Water St. on Peoria’s RiverFront. There is parking across the street (free two-hour parking during the weekday 8:00 - 5:00 and free evenings and weekends) and there is no cost to visit the handicapped accessible facility. The Rhythm Kitchen Music Cafe serves lunch and dinner and live music at night.