Porching

The very first thing I noticed inside the City Gallery of the Harrison Center was the pair of turquoise porch swings hanging in front of their front window.  These swings were inspired by the term Porching, which is a self-claimed term by the Harrison Center that puts an action to an everyday object. The act of "porching" is simple- gather with friends and family on your porch and throw a porch party! It can be as simple as post-dinner family bonding, or a get together with the whole block.  Each year, the City Gallery encourages community members to hit the porch for some summer fun and neighborhood bonding. The concept of gathering on porches is one that helps bring the community together, and makes their space meaningful. Cultivating a sense of community helps strengthen the streets, and better the city.

On this frigid December afternoon, while methodically swinging on the Harrison Center’s porch swing, I can feel the warmth of the sun shining on my back. With Indianapolis literally behind me, I gain a new perspective of the downtown paintings that are in front of me. What did I learn? When we embrace where we are, we can appreciate what surrounds us. Not only do the physical paintings speak to the beauty of the city, but I can feel it for myself when I take a second to appreciate this city that I am in. These swings cultivate a sense of home in the City Gallery at the Harrison Center while also connecting you to the place that surrounds. Grab your friends, family, or even just a cup of coffee and enjoy where you are swinging in this very moment.