Keepers of the Garden: The Greatriarchs of Martindale-Brightwood

Keepers of the Garden (Series) #3

Mixed Media on Canvas

20 x 20

Keepers of the Garden is an exhibit that celebrates the cultural heritage of the Martindale-Brightwood area of Indianapolis through the stories of its "Greatriarchs." These individuals are revered for their role in preserving the traditions, customs, and history of the community.

The exhibit features a diverse range of art forms and artists, including an augmented reality experience created by Indianapolis-based artist Omar Rashan. Augmented reality is an interactive experience that enhances a real-world environment with computer-generated visual elements. Rashan is seeking to use this technology to heighten the storytelling experience. “Augmented reality allows new levels of engagement with the viewer and pulls them more into the piece,” says Rashan. 

Included in the Keepers of the Garden collection are works with imagery of flowers, each with a unique color palette and texture that is assigned to a Greatriarch. Rashan considers each of the Martindale-Brightwood Greatriarchs to be keepers of the garden: “These elders and individuals have truly been a part of this community. They played a role and still play a role in the neighborhood. They are keeping history in place just like a person who has a garden. They nurture their environment and keep cultivating.” 

Floral Paradise (Series) #3

Digital Art on Giclee Print

9 x 12

Rashan believes that the show's augmented reality aspect will help bring the past to life in a new and engaging way. Through this exhibition, viewers can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the unique cultural heritage of the Martindale-Brightwood area and the important role that the Greatriarchs have played in preserving and sharing this history.

Viewers can experience this exhibit through the month of October in the Speck Gallery. The works can additionally be viewed and purchased on our online gallery through November.