Illinois Public Media

Arts and Culture

All new “Prairie Fire” explores the work of extraordinary Illinois-based artists

In March's episode, artist Brian Dettmer transforms ordinary books into extraordinary sculptures. "Prairie Fire" gets to know professional quilter Millie Sorrells of Macomb, Illinois. At 93 years old, her intricate work has garnered national recognition. Viewers will also see a performance by Mother Nature, a women-led hip-hop group that got their start here in Central Illinois.

Latest News

IPM Newsroom

The Forsytes - Stream Now (3.23 - 4.6)

The Forsytes from MASTERPIECE.

WILL FM

Prairie Performances

Prairie Performances: Jazz

On this week’s jazz episode of Prairie Performances, we bring you groovy new tracks from Illinois and beyond.
Clef Notes

Art Songs for Arbor Day

Trees have long served as a source of inspiration for the great poets and writers—from Shakespeare and Goethe to James Joyce. As a result, we have a wealth of art songs…
Evening Concert

The Evening Concert on Illinois Classical

ILLINOIS CLASSICAL: The Evening Concert: MARCH 15 – 16 –17 – 18 – 19 – 20, 2026 

WILL AM

The 21st Show

The pitfalls of AI chatbots in customer service

Customer service is increasingly the domain of AI chatbots. What impact is this having on security and how are consumers engaging with this service? 
The 21st Show
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, left, and running mate, candidate for lieutenant governor, Christian Mitchell speak during an interview, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, in Chicago.

Meet Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor Christian Mitchell

Christian Mitchell served three terms in the Illinois House and four years as Deputy Governor. Now he’s Governor Pritzker’s running mate in the November elections.
The 21st Show

Do self-driving cars have a future in Illinois?

Self-driving cars were once a vision of the future. Now, the company Waymo is hoping to put its autonomous rideshares on the streets of Illinois. A panel of experts weigh in…

WILL TV

Prairie Fire

Prairie Fire: Season 3 - Episode 6 - March 2026

We introduce you to the art of Brian Dettmer, get a special performance from hip-hop duo Mother Nature, and visit with quilter Millie Sorrells, who shows us creativity has no…
Mid-American Gardener

Pruning Tips with Ryan Pankau

Spring has Sprung and you’re almost out of time to get that last minute pruning done before it’s too late for the season. Late winter, early Spring is prime time pruning…
State of Change

The state of the Illinois Prairie

State of Change 2025 looks at efforts to retain existing prairie in Illinois, as well as strategies to restore some areas to a more natural state.