In August of 2020, 18 creatives from all walks of life intentionally gathered on Indiana Avenue to create the Black Lives Matter street mural to express their emotions, heartache, conviction, and inevitably their personal perspective of the demand for racial equality and social justice during the Black Lives Matter Movement. It was pre-destined for “The Eighteen” to embark on such a monumental moment. Not just for the city we love, but to purposefully express hope toward a positive change. Two years later, The Eighteen Art Collective continues to create impactful dialogue, build significant relationships, and evoke inspiration in the Indianapolis community – hoping to influence and encourage other creatives to trust their own artistic journey.

Ashley Nora
*White Butterfly*
Oil on Canvas
48” x 48”

As individual artists, we all have our own personal stories, but one thing The Eighteen has in common is the ability to express artistic gratitude while using their gifts to reach the masses. Overall, what makes being an artist so significant, especially today, is the ability to use the gift of artistic expression to share perspectives of black culture, inclusivity, equity, diversity, leadership, and community.

John G. Moore
*Violation*
Felt on cardboard
48" x 30"

The Eighteen Art Collective has continued to show the city of Indianapolis that their artwork has become a beacon of hope for all creatives and this is only the beginning. We invite you to open your mind while viewing various colors, textures, themes, and heartfelt visual messages while taking a glimpse into our Perspective.

XVIII: Perspective