Artsy Bag Toss Games Paint Downtown La Grange

Every year, downtown La Grange is painted with beautiful artwork to help attract people to the village. It's a fun tradition that's even more fun this year, because the art can later double as a game.

The La Grange Business Association organizes the exhibit by working with local businesses to sponsor the art. Businesses purchase the boards and secure an artist to create a unique design. This year the theme is, appropriately, "Fun & Games."

Past years have featured clocks and elephants, but this year the art is the popular bag toss boards (also known as bags or cornhole). The exhibit is sponsored by Smothers Realty Group, Douglas Auto Body and the Village of La Grange. 

The LGBA held a reception for the participating businesses and their artists Tuesday night at Bottle & Bottega. 

"I love art period, so any chance for me to get a paint brush out is good," said Lorna Shaw, who has been participating in the exhibit for all seven years. "I love seeing it out in the streets and the reactions they get from visitors."

Some artists have hidden items in their work so visitors can spot it. There's an entry form available at Village Hall, and if you correctly identify the hidden items and complete the form by Sept. 3, you will be entered in a drawing for a $100 shopping spree in La Grange.

The bag toss sets will then be auctioned off, with the proceeds going to charity. 

See a map of the exhibit and which businesses are participating.