This year, the United States marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The Declaration of Independence announced that the American colonies were separating from British rule. It stated that all people are created equal and have certain unalienable rights — including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These ideas helped shape the foundation of our country. 

Now, 250 years later, we are asking a new question: What does the future of America look like? 

Side Street Studio Arts, in partnership with the City of Elgin, the Elgin Cultural Arts Commission, and Your Neighbor Elgin, invites young artists under the age of 18 to share their vision for the next 250 years. 

One selected artwork will inspire a permanent public sculpture to be installed in downtown Elgin in 2026.