Tinley Park's Benches on the Avenue public art program has become one of the Village's most popular attractions, drawing thousands of residents and visitors annually to Downtown Tinley. The colorful benches feature the work of both amateur and professional artists and provide spots to rest and enjoy the fantastic creations while strolling through town.

Artwork is based on a different theme each year, and benches are on display from early-May through mid-October along Oak Park Avenue from 172nd to 174th streets in Downtown Tinley. Each bench is sponsored by a local business or individual, who takes possession of it after the program has ended.

2027 'Benches on the Avenue' - A Seat at the Movies
A Seat at the Movies LogoThe Village is looking for local artists who would like to participate in the 24th season of the Benches on the Avenue public art project from May to October in Downtown Tinley. Artists will be asked to create unique, kid- and family-friendly, imaginative, and three-dimensional designs that will take visitors on a journey celebrating "A Seat at the Movies."

What movie moment has stayed with you long after the credits rolled? Artists are invited to bring their favorite cinematic moments to life through their own unique artistic vision, from iconic scenes and unforgettable characters to moments that made us laugh, cry, cheer, or simply believe in a little movie magic. Reimagine the big screen and create a bench that invites everyone to take a seat and experience the magic for themselves.

Interested artists should fill out the 2027 Benches on the Avenue Call to Artists form and submit two designs by Dec. 15. Artists whose designs have been selected will be notified by January 12, 2027.

2026 'Benches on the Avenue' winners
The results are in! Winners of this year's "Party in the USA" Benches on the Avenue include:

  • Best Portrayal of Theme: "America's Birthday" by Dante Dibartolo
  • Most Creative Bench: "I'm Just a Bill" by Moraine Valley Community College
  • Best 3D Bench: "Pawty in the USA" by Amy Tucker
  • Best Individual Artist: "Field of Remembrance" by Hannah Cobb
  • Best Group/Family Bench: "Gilded Liberty" by The Painted Turtle
    Best New Artist: "Love Wins" by Judy Wilk
  • Judges' Choice: "Land of the Free, Because of the Brave" by Colleen Sullivan and Mark Ethridge
The Village would like to congratulate all of the 2026 Benches on the Avenue artists, as well as this year's judges Ed and Janice Nadess of American Legion Post 615, U.S. Army veteran Matt Tidball, Mari Velez of the Tinley Park Public Library, and Carrie Piet of Community Consolidated School District 146.
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