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'A Semblance of Reality': The art of Duffy Armstrong Farrell

On this week's episode of Out and About, Dr. Mae Gilliland Wright of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with artist Duffy Armstrong Farrell about her work over the years — including her latest exhibition, A Semblance of Reality, which is on display now through August 2 at Exhibit A Gallery in Peoria Heights.

She reflects on the past as a woman and as an artist in Peoria, while looking to the future of her own practice. Check out this photo of Duffy and her artist studio group in Peoria in 1979, which also marked the first exhibition of her work. Duffy can be seen in the middle with her hand underneath her chin along with the other women a part of the group.

A flyer promoting an artist studio opening in 1979 in Peoria, Illinois. Six women are grouped together, smiling.
Duffy Armstrong-Farrell
Duffy Armstrong-Farrell can be seen in the center of the photo, resting her chin on her hand. This flyer was used to promote one of the first exhibitions Armstrong-Farrell had in Peoria in 1979.

Jody Holtz was WCBU's assistant program and development director. She left the station in 2025.