Indianapolis Art Center

Whether your hobbies and interests lie in pastels, clay, metal or wood, the Indianapolis Art Center has something for everyone.

Established in 1934, the Indianapolis Art Center was created for the employment of struggling artists after the Depression. Today, the Center still remains true to this cause but has also become a space for the Indianapolis Arts Community to thrive. It is the mission of the Center to educate and engage all ages through art exposure, education and outreach programs.

Classes and adult workshops are offered daily and in a two or three day program. Classes vary and frequently include crafts like Furniture Refinishing, Oil & Pastel Painting, Glass Making, Photography, Printmaking, Woodworking, Ceramics, Sculpting and Fabric Dyeing. The year-round art classes for youth and adults are available at all levels and are taught by knowledgeable professionals.

The Center also exhibits the work of local professional artists while providing visitors with a opportunity to buy their art. The Broad Ripple Art Fair is the Indianapolis Art Center’s largest annual fundraising event. Over a two-day period during May, more than 25,000 visitors attend, and local artists are given a unique chance to show and sell their work.

The Art Center's outreach programs bring the art community together, whatever their capabilities. The Center uses art to stimulate human development while making it accessible to all. One such successful program is ArtReach, where classes are taught within housing communities, churches and healthcare centers.

The Indianapolis Center also features the Artspark, an outdoor scenic and eduational area with displays of impressive art. Here, events like the Artsparkle Mardi Gras are enjoyed by visitors every summer. Local food and wine is devoured and live performances bring the evening to a spectacular finale.

HelloIndianapolis Tip: Visit the Basile Studio Shop, which features the original hand-crafted work of over 75 local and regional artists.

- by Jim Brown , Indianapolis Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)