"Lines" exhibit: Nov. 2-Dec. 4, 2026
The Trutter Museum & Murray Gallery at Lincoln Land Community College will host the exhibit “Lines” Nov. 2-Dec. 4. The exhibit features glass works by Springfield-based artist Mario Clarke. Visitors are invited to view the exhibit weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and attend a closing reception in the museum/gallery on Thursday, Dec. 3, 5:30-7:30 p.m. The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public.
Clarke’s contemporary vessels and sculptural forms blend technical mastery with a designer’s eye for line, balance and composition. Drawing on traditional Venetian cane-working techniques such as zanfirico and merletto, he creates works that exist between function and sculpture. Flowing lines twist, intersect and diverge throughout his work, reflecting the paths, relationships and unexpected connections that shape the human experience. His intricate craftsmanship and layered patterns invite close observation while inspiring curiosity and reflection.
Raised in nearby Mt. Olive, Illinois, Clarke began his artistic journey at LLCC before earning a bachelor's degree in graphic design and photography from Illinois State University in 2017. While at ISU, he began studying glass under John Miller, American studio glass movement artist. He continued his glass education through advanced study, including time at the renowned Pilchuck Glass School and professional experience in Murano, Italy, working with Fabiano Zanchi, master chandelier maker. Today, Clarke serves as the glass studio manager and technician at the Springfield Art Association and is the organization's first glass blowing instructor.
Philip and Mary Kathryn Trutter Museum within the James Murray Gallery
The Philip and Mary Kathryn Trutter Museum has been in existence since 2004. In 2021, the Trutter Museum was transformed with the goal to maintain the strong name, identity and presence of the Philip and Mary Kathryn Trutter Museum, while uniting the Trutter collection with the space that is currently the James Murray Gallery in Menard Hall on LLCC’s main campus. This museum is a tribute to individuals who shared a great love for travel and education. We continue to celebrate a love for learning and the arts in a new location. By reimagining the Trutter Museum, students will have greater access to the collection and it will eventually be incorporated in art history courses. Moving the Trutter Museum to a better, high-traffic area on campus meets the goal to share the collection with students and others who may never get to travel but can travel the world through the Trutter Museum.
Melding the Trutter Museum with the James Murray Gallery reinvigorates and creates excitement about the arts on our campus and in the communities we serve. The museum and gallery features works from the Trutter Collection and pieces by guest artists, students and faculty. Phil Trutter was a student of James Murray. What an incredible connection to share with our students, faculty, staff and community.
Exhibitions
Exhibitions are scheduled and coordinated through the LLCC Humanities, Arts, Communication and English, 217-786-2286.
Getting to the museum/gallery
The Trutter Museum & Murray Gallery is located on the second floor of Menard Hall on LLCC's Springfield campus. View the location of Menard Hall on the campus map.