Erik Blome followed his father’s passion for art and has become one of Illinois’ most prolific artists. Blome specializes in creating massive bronzes. He has created the Blackhawks’ 75th anniversary sculpture at the United Center, a 9/11 monument in Oak Lawn and a statue of Jack Benny along with other sensational works. Blome’s art can be found in 17 states and in Canada.

Blome and his wife, Charlotte, have founded and run a non-profit organization called “When I Grow Up I Want To Be,” which brings art and other supplies, art workshops and attention to children from Ethiopia.

The Supreme Court’s historic decision to extend Marriage Equality nationwide came just two days before Chicago’s 46th Annual Pride Parade, giving extra meaning to the annual celebration of the LGBT community. The parade, which was held yesterday and traveled through Chicago’s Uptown, Lakeview and Lincoln Park neighborhoods, is one of the oldest and largest pride parades in the nation.

Bruce Walters started drawing at a young age and has had a lifelong passion for art. Walters has taught at Western Illinois University since 1997. He has also worked as a graphic designer and illustrator for corporations, museums, federal and state institutions, advertising agencies and the media. Walters’ artwork has been displayed in more than 100 solo, invitational and competitive exhibitions − primarily in the Midwest.

Jeff Boshart has had a lifelong passion for art. He is a sculptor and educator who teaches sculpture at Eastern Illinois University. Boshart’s job involves introducing students to the history and contemporary issues in sculpture as well as demonstrating how and why artists create or invent. Boshart also works with various materials and tools and teaches others how to safely use them. When he is not busy teaching, Boshart enjoys working on large-scale sculpture installations that typically involve a lot of planning.

Some of the truly great and influential authors of the last century have hailed from Illinois. Whether it be Jane Addams writing on the great social issues of her time in Chicago, or Ray Bradbury writing fantasy novels, Illinois has a rich history of literature.

It is important to celebrate Illinois' rich literary history. Below are but a few of Illinois' great authors.