The Aurora Public Library District (APLD) is always looking for new ways to connect, learn, and inspire creativity within our community. One way we’re doing this is with the launch of our new Maker In Residence program, which brings artists into the library to lead programs, share their work, and engage directly with customers in the Makerspace. We are proud to announce our inaugural resident artist, Morgan Donohue, whose passion for art and education sets the tone for this exciting new offering!
Morgan is a local art teacher with experience working with both elementary and high school students. A lifelong resident of the Fox Valley area, her artistic background spans pottery, upcycled clothing, screenprinting, slipcasting, and more. Morgan embraces a hands-on, exploratory process and often works with unconventional materials including cardboard, feathers, birdseed, stuffed animals, and sponges. She is especially eager to give back to the community through this unique opportunity. “I am super excited to be the first Maker In Residence! I love any chance to share my work and my process with the community. Hopefully I will be able to spark some creativity and inspire other people to make their own creations.”
The Maker In Residence program was designed with that precise goal in mind, to expand access to creative experiences while highlighting APLD’s Makerspace. We hope to introduce fresh ideas and artistic approaches that go beyond what staff can provide alone. “Our Makerspace has so many wonderful machines with so many capabilities,” said Makerspace manager, Elliot. “We want to enrich our customers’ lives with artwork of all kinds, from diverse perspectives and uniquely talented individuals, beyond what we can offer in-house.”
Morgan’s experience as both an artist and educator makes her uniquely suited to guide and inspire APLD customers. “We were excited to see that Morgan’s portfolio included several kinds of art that we haven’t exhibited at the library before,” added Elliot. “She communicates ideas effectively and has a strong connection to the Aurora community and our mission as a public library.” Above all, the Maker In Residence program aims to celebrate creativity as a shared experience, which Morgan echoes. “I really believe that art can connect us as a community,” Morgan added. “Not only am I looking forward to learning and utilizing the Makerspace tools into my own work, I am even more excited to share this resource with my community.”
We invite you to discover what you can create! Morgan will be in the Makerspace for Meet the Maker sessions and demonstrations throughout July and an exhibit of her past works will be on display at the Santori Library. For more information, visit the Makerspace at any time during the residency or contact makerspace@aurorapubliclibrary.org.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.