The goal of the Derby Arts Council is to encourage, promote and foster appreciation, participation and support for the visual arts. The Derby Arts Council will showcase local artists and provide an exhibition gallery for Derby and the surrounding area to enhance the cultural arts experience.

There are two gallery spaces in the library that are managed by the Derby Arts Council: the Gathering Space Gallery and the High Wall Gallery. The Gathering Space Gallery is in the library’s lobby and includes the Community Room. Art hung inside the library's Community Room is unavailable for viewing during library programs and room rentals. The High Wall Gallery is inside the library, located in the Kansas & Genealogy area of the library. Three-dimensional art and local collectors can be found on display in the lobby display case.

Click the button below to download the Policies and Procedures of the Derby Arts Council, which includes the artist release statement and inventory sheet.

Any questions regarding the artwork, including possible purchase, can be directed to Tami English, Derby Public Library Office Manager and Derby Arts Council Chair.

If you haven’t walked through the Derby Public Library this week, you’re missing out on the most vibrant transformation of the year. Our walls have been turned into a high-energy gallery of wonder, showcasing hundreds of original works from Kindergarten through 2nd-grade students representing all nine Derby USD 260 elementary schools.

This isn’t "refrigerator art"—it’s a sophisticated look at how our youngest residents see the world. From the Gathering Space Gallery to the High Wall Gallery, you’ll find:
 

• Mini-Modernists: Be sure to check out the Tanglewood Elementary section, where students have tackled the complex, geometric world of Paul Klee. Their use of lines and symbols shows a level of focus and style that will surprise you.
• STEAM in Action: See how science and art collide! Many of these pieces were created as part of STEAM projects, showing how students use acrylics, tempera, and mixed media to explore scientific concepts and solve creative problems.
• A World of Variety: Whether it’s whimsical self-portraits that capture big personalities or vibrant animal studies and abstracts, there is a sense of joy and "spark" in every square inch of the display.

"The energy in the library right now is incredible," says Tami English, Derby Arts Council Chair. "Seeing the pride on these students' faces when they see their work in a professional gallery is exactly why we do this. It’s a powerful reminder of the talent being nurtured by our amazing district art teachers."

The entire community is invited to our Artist Reception on Thursday, April 16, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. It’s the perfect way to kick off the 2026 Third Thursday season. Come meet the artists, chat with the teachers, and experience the bright future of Derby’s creative scene.
 

• Exhibition Dates: Now through April 24, 2026
• Reception: April 16, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Admission: Always free and open to the public!

Don’t miss this chance to be inspired by the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and dreamers. We’ll see you at the library!

We are thrilled to host a special display case featuring 3D artworks from Derby High School students (Grades 9-12).

This exhibition highlights the incredible variety of the DHS Art Department, featuring everything from classic ceramics to brand-new courses. Stop by before the end of April to see:

• Jewelry & Metalwork: Marvel at the intricate "positive/negative" pendants from the new Fundamentals of Jewelry class. Students mastered the jeweler’s saw, filing, and polishing to create these professional-grade pieces alongside stunning wire-wrapping designs.
• Whimsical Fibers: The new Fundamentals of Fibers course makes its debut with adorable, dry needle-felted animals that are full of personality!
• Interactive Clay: Check out the hand-built whistles from Fundamentals of Clay. Using pinch-pot techniques, these students created instruments that actually make sound!
• Strategic Sculpture: Our Advanced Sculpture artists took on the "Unity Challenge," designing cohesive Tic-Tac-Toe boards where every game piece matches the aesthetic of the board.
• Wheel & Surface Design: Explore expert vessels from Advanced Clay Wheel and Functional Clay, showcasing beautiful forms and creative surface illustrations.

We are so proud to partner with the DHS Art Department to celebrate these talented young creators. Whether you’re a fan of fine metalwork, cozy fibers, or clever ceramics, this display is guaranteed to inspire.