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Experience Canton Along the Illinois River Road

Bill Swango's Wildlife Art Gallery
Map # 9: 271 W. State Street, Smithfield, IL 61477


"Memories of things I did as a kid, especially with my dad, have had a great deal of influence on my art and my life," states Fulton County sculptor Bill Swango, who fashions incredible wildlife pieces of solid walnut and clay. For all his talent, Swango is quick to credit his long and successful career to his wife Shirley, who helps in arranging his pieces and getting the correct colors on his painted works. Swango begins his wood carvings with a chain saw, followed by a painstaking series of small saws, chisels, grinders, gouges, and files. Final finishing is accomplished with dental tools and fine sandpaper. The "Red Brick Schoolhouse" in the village of Smithfield serves as Swango's gallery. Opened in 1917, this classic 2-story building once housed grades 1-11 and was only recently (1990) closed to classes. Please call for an appointment.


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GPS: n 40.47515; w 90.29339
Site Access: free
Phone: 309-783-3283



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Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway
Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway