Gallery openings (& surprising amusements) every First Friday of the month from 6-9 pm.
First Friday
January 2026: Love-Handles and Cowlicks
Perchance to Dream by Johnny McKee
On January 2nd, from 6-9 pm, join us for First Friday! Enjoy these openings:
In the Harrison Gallery, Love-Handles and Cowlicks by Johnny McKee. In his most recent artistic evolution, McKee dives headfirst into abstract expression. The non-representational works on paper are full of chaotic colors, visible brush strokes, drips, and splatters. Being human is being imperfect, and this group of paintings embodies that very notion.
In the Speck Gallery, The Resilience of Hope by Stephanie Robertson. This show is an exploration of how beauty and persistence emerge from fragility. Through small watercolor studies and large silk-painted, quilted panels, the exhibition traces the quiet ways life continues: ice melting to reveal pavement, water churning and reforming, plants pushing through the smallest cracks.
In the City Gallery, All Night Boogie by Warren Beal. Beal brings the spirit of the blues into visual form. For more than fifteen years, the Indianapolis native has collected discarded urban fragments and transformed them into new compositions that echo the improvisational rhythm of a long night’s music session. Each work uniquely captures the city’s pulse.
In the Underground Gallery, Everyday Poetics by Chris Hill. This show explores public expressions as vital affirmations of existence, especially for marginalized communities. Drawing from what he observes while walking or riding the bus, Hill highlights marks and messages often overlooked in public space. By pairing photographs with additional materials, he expands their meaning and impact.
In the Sky Gallery, Listen By Elizabeth Guipe Hall. Inspired by recorded bird songs, Hall delves into different species, translating their calls into vibrant, textured artworks. Using layers of wax and collage, she transforms sound into color, offering a visual experience that bridges what we hear and what we see.
In the Hank & Dolly’s Gallery, Florescence by Leslie Dolin. Dolin uses the idea of flowering as a metaphor for renewal. Created during her shift into empty nesting, the work reflects on a mother’s evolving sense of purpose. Through oil, mixed media, and monotype, Dolin reimagines flowers as symbols of rebirth and the desire to thrive in a new season of life.
In the Lift Gallery, Circle City Made by Cierra Johnson. Using mixed-media collage, graphic design, and photography, Johnson creates visual narratives that reflect her personal experience and the history of her community. Each piece is handcrafted to embody the unique stories that inspire it.
Guests can also enjoy:
In the Historic Gymnasium, Wrestling is Art with Zane Pasley. Get ready for a night of engaging, adrenaline-packed, WWE-style entertainment!
Hungry? Grab a bite across the courtyard from IndiTaco food truck for authentic Indian-Mexican cuisine.
In the Courtyard, engage with Se(e) Change, a large-scale public installation by artists Michelle Walkey-Thornburg and Aaron Thornburg, and watch dancer Neil Cain perform dances that interact with the sculpture. Enjoy a warm firepit-stop while you’re there.
All shows will open at 6:00 pm on Friday, January 2, 2025.
Visitors can take in-person gallery tours Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Online galleries will open on January 3rd. You can make an appointment or view the online galleries at harrisoncenter.org/buy-art.
Special Senior Hours are every Friday from 2:00pm - 4:00pm. No appointment is needed.
With support from Indy Arts Council, City of Indianapolis, Indiana Arts Commission, Lilly Endowment Inc., and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
About the Harrison Center
The Harrison Center is a community-based, nonprofit arts organization that seeks to be a catalyst for renewal in the city of Indianapolis. Founded in 2001, the organization's work is two-fold. The Harrison Center is for the Arts by hosting over 40 artists' studios and 8 galleries. It provides programming to foster the creation of new art, build community among artists and emerging patrons, and provide a forum for public conversation. The Harrison Center is for the City by connecting people to culture, community, and place to strengthen Indianapolis's core neighborhoods. For more information on the Harrison Center, call 317.396.3886 or visit www.harrisoncenter.org. Connect with the Harrison Center on social media at Facebook/@HarrisonCenterArts, Instagram/@harrisoncenterarts, Youtube/@hca4thearts, or Twitter/@HarrisonCtrArts.
December 2025: Golden Ticket
Golden Ticket poster by Hogan Sempsrott
On December 5th, from 6-9 pm, join us for First Friday! Enjoy these openings:
In the Harrison Gallery, the annual color-themed show, Golden Ticket. Presented by the Katharine B. Sutphin Foundation, Golden Ticket brings together artists from across the region in a celebration of creativity, imagination, and possibility, united by inspiration in the form of the color gold.
In the Speck Gallery, Julia Zollman Wickes—I Am a Storyteller by Julia Zollman Wickes, a posthumous retrospective. Wickes’ paintings told stories, mostly about people—people she knew, might have noticed and wanted to think more about. She was interested in the gestures and expressions in private moments of thought, the inside moments.
In the City Gallery, PAST TENSE by Jingo M. de la Rosa. In Past Tense, memory takes the shape of a city transformed after loss. What was once ordinary becomes charged with memory, revealing fragments of what once was, and what it will be from now on. Despite the echoes of absence, new meanings emerge, and hope is renewed.
In the Underground Gallery, Circle City Made by Cierra Johnson. Using mixed-media collage, graphic design, and photography, Johnson creates visual narratives that reflect her personal experience and the history of her community. Each piece is handcrafted to embody the unique stories that inspire it.
In the Sky Gallery, Listen By Elizabeth Guipe Hall. Inspired by recorded bird songs, Hall delves into different species, translating their calls into vibrant, textured artworks. Using layers of wax and collage, she transforms sound into color, offering a visual experience that bridges what we hear and what we see.
In the Hank & Dolly’s Gallery, New Work by William Minion. This show features a series of large scale graphite drawings, often inspired by scriptures. Combining pencil realism with abstract and surreal elements, the series explores a new direction in Minion’s work.
Guests can also enjoy:
Open Studios all night! Visit the artists behind your favorite pieces of work, and get a glimpse into their creative process. (Hint: See if you can find the studio with the famous koi pond!)
In the Courtyard, engage with a large-scale public outdoor installation by artists Michelle Walkey-Thornburg and Aaron Thornburg, and watch dancer Neil Cain perform dances that interact with the sculpture.
Hungry? Grab a bite across the courtyard from the 3 Marias’ food truck for authentic Tex-Mex cuisine.
In the Historic Gymnasium and Underground Gallery, get your holiday gifts early at the 8th year of the Winter Artisan Market. Hand-crafted art, jewelry, goodies, and all sorts of wares from local creatives will be available, with over 40 local vendors offering something for everyone.
All shows will open at 6:00 pm on Friday, December 5, 2025.
Visitors can take in-person gallery tours Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Online galleries will open on April 5th. You can make an appointment or view the online galleries at harrisoncenter.org/buy-art.
Special Senior Hours are every Friday from 2:00pm - 4:00pm. No appointment is needed.
With support from Indy Arts Council, Indy Arts Council Art & Soul, Katharine B. Sutphin Foundation, City of Indianapolis, Indiana Arts Commission, Lilly Endowment, and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
About the Harrison Center
The Harrison Center is a community-based, nonprofit arts organization that seeks to be a catalyst for renewal in the city of Indianapolis. Founded in 2001, the organization's work is two-fold. The Harrison Center is for the Arts by hosting 40 artists' studios and 8 galleries. It provides programming to foster the creation of new art, build community among artists and emerging patrons, and provide a forum for public conversation. The Harrison Center is for the City by connecting people to culture, community, and place to strengthen Indianapolis's core neighborhoods. For more information on the Harrison Center, call 317.396.3886 or visit www.harrisoncenter.org. Connect with the Harrison Center on social media at Facebook/@HarrisonCenterArts, Instagram/@harrisoncenterarts, Youtube/@hca4thearts, or Twitter/@HarrisonCtrArts.
November 2025: Canopy
Canopy by Kyle Ragsdale
On November 7th, from 6-9pm, join us for First Friday! Enjoy these openings:
In the Harrison Gallery & Gallery Annex, Canopy by Kyle Ragsdale. Created with swift gestures, trowel marks, and palette knife reconstructions, this show carries a tactile energy that mirrors the movement of dancers and the textures of costume fabrics. Shifting between blurred passages and sharp focus, it evokes operatic drama, suggesting the mysterious beauty found beneath a canopy.
In the Speck Gallery, Origins by Morgan Binkerd. This show is a representation of Binkerd’s journey into painting, spanning the last few years in which she found her voice as a painter. Her work explores themes of time, transformation, decomposing and regenerative energies, and the power of nature as a guiding force.
In the City Gallery, Potawatomi “A Woodland People” by David Martin. With this exhibit, Martin showcases both historical figures and the culture of the Potawatomi people. He uses portraiture and abstract floral designs of the Potawatomi to tell the story of who they were and are now as living and surviving people.
In the Underground Gallery, Circle City Made by Cierra Johnson. Using mixed-media collage, graphic design, and photography, Johnson creates visual narratives that reflect her personal experience and the history of her community. Each piece is handcrafted to embody the unique stories that inspire it.
In the Hank & Dolly's Gallery, As the Crows Fly by Andre Parnell. Parnell’s work blends public, fine, and commercial art to create spaces that foster connection, healing, and cultural pride. Through murals and creative programming, he sparks dialogue, amplifies community voices, and inspires collective growth.
In the Sky Gallery, Listen by Elizabeth Guipe Hall. Inspired by recorded bird songs, Hall delves into different species, translating their calls into vibrant, textured artworks. Using layers of wax and collage, she transforms sound into color, providing a visual experience that bridges what we hear and what we see.
In the Lift Gallery, Liminal by Kate Oberreich. Liminal uses the transitional and ephemeral nature of two forms of photography: the measured and intentional cyanotype, a cameraless process, alongside in-the-moment Polaroids, evoking impermanence and a closer examination of spaces in between.
Guests can also enjoy:
In the Courtyard, engage with a large-scale public outdoor installation by artists Michelle Walkey-Thornburg and Aaron Thornburg.
Hungry? Grab a bite across the courtyard from 3 Marias’ food truck for authentic Tex-Mex Cuisine.
In the Historic Gymnasium, enjoy performances by Herron High School dancers for the school’s 20-Year Anniversary, under the direction of teacher Laurie Cutsinger.
Performances will take place at 6:30, 7:15, and 8:00 p.m.
All shows will open at 6:00 pm on Friday, November 7, 2025.
Visitors can take in-person gallery tours Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Online galleries will open on November 8th. You can make an appointment or view the online galleries at harrisoncenter.org/buy-art.
Special Senior Hours are every Friday from 2:00pm - 4:00pm. No appointment is needed.
With support from Indy Arts Council, City of Indianapolis, Indiana Arts Commission, Christel DeHaan Family Foundation, Lilly Endowment Inc., and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
About the Harrison Center
The Harrison Center is a community-based, nonprofit arts organization that seeks to be a catalyst for renewal in the city of Indianapolis. Founded in 2001, the organization's work is two-fold. The Harrison Center is for the Arts by hosting 40 artists' studios and 8 galleries. It provides programming to foster the creation of new art, build community among artists and emerging patrons, and provide a forum for public conversation. The Harrison Center is for the City by connecting people to culture, community, and place to strengthen Indianapolis's core neighborhoods. For more information on the Harrison Center, call 317.396.3886 or visit www.harrisoncenter.org. Connect with the Harrison Center on social media at Facebook/@HarrisonCenterArts, Instagram/@harrisoncenterarts, Youtube/@hca4thearts, or Twitter/@HarrisonCtrArts.
October 2025: Exit Strategy
Exit Strategy by Casey Roberts
On October 3rd, from 6-9 pm, join us for First Friday! Enjoy these openings:
In the Harrison Gallery, Exit Strategy by Casey Roberts. This mixed media exhibition explores how we—as individuals and as a society—navigate difficult situations and devise creative workarounds. With a tone of quiet stillness, dark humor, and refined elegance, the show offers a poignant reflection on resilience and adaptation.
In the Gallery Annex, Liminal by Kate Oberreich. Liminal uses the transitional and ephemeral nature of two forms of photography: the measured and intentional cyanotype, a cameraless process, alongside in-the-moment Polaroids, evoking impermanence and a closer examination of spaces in between.
Lake Station Addendum by Tyler Meuninck. This series of paintings and cutouts continues Meuninck's exploration of the interlocking townships of northwestern Indiana and southeast Illinois. Drawing from his weekly commutes along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, these pieces document industry and change while weaving in memory and place-based affection.
In the Speck Gallery, The Women in Between by Boxx The Artist. This show highlights local grassroots trailblazers to acknowledge the roles that many marginalized dark-skinned Black women play in society, and continues the dialogue on fairness, visibility, and belonging through expressionistic portraiture.
In the City Gallery, Indy In Inches by Sun Young Gullery features a collection of 56 miniature acrylic paintings. Each one celebrates the rich tapestry of small businesses and iconic landmarks across Indianapolis. Through this series, the artist invites viewers to appreciate the charm and character of the city on an intimate scale.
In the Underground Gallery, CompleteLife 2025 presents: FLAWS; A Beautiful Mess. How do you view the flaws within yourself? Have you ever tried to challenge your situation to see these things differently? This year’s art show seeks to explore these questions. Things that are viewed as flaws, imperfections, or chaotic are all a matter of perspective.
In the Hank & Dolly’s Gallery, COMFORT by Phil Campbell. Campbell uses donated clothing to create a triage space, transforming a cold hospital setting into a comforting place filled with tributes to those lost to addiction. The work invites reflection, connection, and care for people impacted by substance use.
In the Sky Gallery, Listen by Elizabeth Guipe Hall. Inspired by recorded bird songs, Hall delves into different species, translating their calls into vibrant, textured artworks. Using layers of wax and collage, she transforms sound into color, providing a visual experience that bridges what we hear and what we see.
In the Lift Gallery, Nothing Serious by Harriet Watson. In this mixed media exhibition, Watson invites us into a world where creation springs from a radical redefinition of "fun" and indulges in the beautiful messiness of growth.
Guests can also enjoy:
In the Courtyard, engage with a large-scale public outdoor installation by artists Michelle Walkey-Thornburg and Aaron Thornburg, and watch dancer Neil Cain perform dances that interact with the sculpture.
Hungry? Grab a bite across the courtyard from IndiTaco food truck for authentic Indian-Mexican cuisine.
In the Historic Gymnasium, treat yourself to some popcorn and vintage flicks by film preservationist and author Eric Grayson at 7:30pm.
All shows will open at 6:00 pm on Friday, October 3rd, 2025.
Visitors can take in-person gallery tours Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Online galleries will open on April 5th. You can make an appointment or view the online galleries at harrisoncenter.org/buy-art.
Special Senior Hours are every Friday from 2:00pm - 4:00pm. No appointment is needed.
With support from Indy Arts Council, City of Indianapolis, Indiana Arts Commission, Lilly Endowment, and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
About the Harrison Center
The Harrison Center is a community-based, nonprofit arts organization that seeks to be a catalyst for renewal in the city of Indianapolis. Founded in 2001, the organization's work is two-fold. The Harrison Center is for the Arts by hosting 40 artists' studios and 8 galleries. It provides programming to foster the creation of new art, build community among artists and emerging patrons, and provide a forum for public conversation. The Harrison Center is for the City by connecting people to culture, community, and place to strengthen Indianapolis's core neighborhoods. For more information on the Harrison Center, call 317.396.3886 or visit www.harrisoncenter.org. Connect with the Harrison Center on social media at Facebook/@HarrisonCenterArts, Instagram/@harrisoncenterarts, Youtube/@hca4thearts, or Twitter/@HarrisonCtrArts.
September 2025: Modern Baroke
Amour Féminin; The Fairest of the Season by Ellen Leigh
On September 5th, from 6-9 pm, join us for First Friday! Enjoy these openings:
In the Harrison Gallery, Modern Baroke by Ellen Leigh. This unique exhibition features assemblage pieces built around the concept of Modern Baroque themes. Leigh creates work using discarded domestic materials that she deconstructs and then reassembles to create interior landscapes that explore identity.
In the Gallery Annex, Totems & Topographies by Jess Hogue. Hogue merges architecture and art using personal data and parametric modeling to create sculptural works. In this body of work, she transforms plywood into organic forms that honor the sacred in everyday life.
Circle² by Chris Bowman. This exhibition explores the relationship between form and meaning through wood sculptures that merge circular turning techniques with square formats. Bowman expands on themes from his earlier show Encompass, using patterns and textures to symbolize both personal connection and the evolving possibilities of his medium.
In the Speck Gallery, Double or Nothing by Molly Wolfe in the Speck Gallery. This exhibition of watercolor paintings explores the iconic Rorschach Test. These pieces invert the process; instead of creating a painting by interpreting an inkblot, these inkblots were made by interpreting and simplifying the paintings, inviting the viewer to find meaning through inserting themselves into the ambiguous imagery.
In the City Gallery, Art Teacher Vibes by Katie Pourcho in the City Gallery. This playful, chic collection features 10–15 works across various media, including paintings, garments, ceramics, and digital stills. The work will pair with the children's educational video series that Pourcho is partnering with the Harrison Center to create.
In the Lift Gallery, Nothing Serious by Harriet Watson. In this mixed media exhibition, Watson invites us into a world where creation springs from a radical redefinition of "fun" and indulges in the beautiful messiness of growth.
In the Underground Gallery, Black Sheep by Sam Penaloza. This exhibition explores the darkness within the human experience and challenges societal norms. As one of the few dark artists in the city, Penaloza creates an experience that confronts uncomfortable truths and emphasizes that darkness is an essential aspect of life.
In the Sky Gallery, Empathy in Action by Johnson Simon. This collaborative show with ArtMix students showcases their struggles and personal experiences that they wish others understood about them through paintings and 3D printed sculptures.
Guests can also enjoy:
Open Studios all night! Visit the artists behind your favorite pieces of work, and get a glimpse into their creative process. (Hint: See if you can find the studio with the famous koi pond!)
In the Courtyard, enjoy a large-scale public outdoor installation by artists Michelle Walkey and Aaron Thornburg. Grab a bite from IndiTaco food truck for authentic Indian-Mexican cuisine.
On the Sky Deck, join the Indianapolis Recorder for their 130 year anniversary celebration! This forward-thinking gathering co-hosted with InnoPower features storytelling, public art, networking, and more. Live Bossara quartet music will accompany the festivities!
In the Historic Gymnasium, enjoy performances from seasoned Dance Kaleidoscope members Courtney Jefferies and Daniella Sibley, accompanied by live music featuring Henry Bond from the Pacific Symphony.
All shows will open at 6:00 pm on Friday, September 5, 2025.
Visitors can take in-person gallery tours Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Online galleries will open on April 5th. You can make an appointment or view the online galleries at harrisoncenter.org/buy-art.
Special Senior Hours are every Friday from 2:00pm - 4:00pm. No appointment is needed.
With support from Indy Arts Council, City of Indianapolis, Indiana Arts Commission, Lilly Endowment, and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
About the Harrison Center
The Harrison Center is a community-based, nonprofit arts organization that seeks to be a catalyst for renewal in the city of Indianapolis. Founded in 2001, the organization's work is two-fold. The Harrison Center is for the Arts by hosting 40 artists' studios and 8 galleries. It provides programming to foster the creation of new art, build community among artists and emerging patrons, and provide a forum for public conversation. The Harrison Center is for the City by connecting people to culture, community, and place to strengthen Indianapolis's core neighborhoods. For more information on the Harrison Center, call 317.396.3886 or visit www.harrisoncenter.org. Connect with the Harrison Center on social media at Facebook/@HarrisonCenterArts, Instagram/@harrisoncenterarts, Youtube/@hca4thearts, or Twitter/@HarrisonCtrArts.
August 2025: Summer's Imprint
Persimmon Tree by Lisa VanMeter Walls
On August 1st, from 6-9 pm, join us for First Friday! Enjoy these openings:
In the Harrison Gallery, Summer’s Imprint: A Celebration of Nature by Lisa VanMeter Walls. Using basswood and linoleum blocks, VanMeter Walls expresses her belief in the importance of observing and appreciating the natural world. Each piece celebrates the intricacies of our shared environment, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a world where beauty and vitality are front and center.
In the Gallery Annex, Creature Feature, a group show. This colorful group exhibition, by the 67th Street Printmakers, highlights a diverse range of earthly creatures through printmaking. Each artist offers a unique perspective—playful, wild, or mysterious—showcasing the richness of life on our planet through technique, texture, and imagination.
In the Speck Gallery, PetCon, a group show. This exhibition celebrates the human race's love of their animal companions. The show honors the unconditional love, trust, and joy that animals bring into our lives.
In the City Gallery, Unconditional by Emily Persic. In a world that feels increasingly fraught, Persic discovers joy in creating portraits of people and their pets. The true gift of our animal companions is their unceasing love and trust.
In the Hank & Dolly’s Gallery, Rescatados by Henry A. Garcia. Garcia is a self taught artist specializing in dry erase marker. Using home made tools, stippling, and scratching techniques he focuses on bringing animal subjects to life while evoking the thought of animal preservation. The portraits in Rescatados represent beloved pets that he and his family have rescued. This is reflective of the love and care that each pet received when being welcomed into their home.
Guests can also enjoy:
In the Historic Gymnasium, enjoy treats handmade by local bakers curated by Emily Brungard of @tasteindianapolis for BakeCon! An old-fashioned cake walk will accompany this sweet festivity.
In the Courtyard, interact with our friends from the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site with a mini version of their annual Wicket World of Croquet.
In the Underground Gallery, singer-songwriters Pascal Glock and Grace Graves will be performing original music about the foundations of Martindale-Brightwood, along with unique dance performances.
On the Sky Deck, celebrate the 130th year of the Indianapolis Recorder, complete with live DJ music and more.
All shows will open at 6:00 pm on Friday, August 1, 2025.
Visitors can take in-person gallery tours Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Online galleries will open on April 5th. You can make an appointment or view the online galleries at harrisoncenter.org/buy-art.
Special Senior Hours are every Friday from 2:00pm - 4:00pm. No appointment is needed.
With support from Indy Arts Council, City of Indianapolis, Indiana Arts Commission, Lilly Endowment, and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
About the Harrison Center
The Harrison Center is a community-based, nonprofit arts organization that seeks to be a catalyst for renewal in the city of Indianapolis. Founded in 2001, the organization's work is two-fold. The Harrison Center is for the Arts by hosting 40 artists' studios and 8 galleries. It provides programming to foster the creation of new art, build community among artists and emerging patrons, and provide a forum for public conversation. The Harrison Center is for the City by connecting people to culture, community, and place to strengthen Indianapolis's core neighborhoods. For more information on the Harrison Center, call 317.396.3886 or visit www.harrisoncenter.org. Connect with the Harrison Center on social media at Facebook/@HarrisonCenterArts, Instagram/@harrisoncenterarts, Youtube/@hca4thearts, or Twitter/@HarrisonCtrArts.
July 2025: Where the Heart Is
A Safe Place to Wonder by Kate Orr
On July 4th, from 6-9 pm, join us for First Friday! Enjoy these openings:
In the Harrison Gallery, Where the Heart Is by Kate Orr. This body of work explores the feeling of home as a source of comfort, peace, and connection. Through quiet moments—sunlight through windows, shared coffee, laughter, music, and the presence of loved ones—Orr invites viewers to reflect on what home means to them.
In the Gallery Annex, Home by Aaron Pickens. The paintings in this exhibition were all created at, in, or around the place Pickens calls home, including alla prima plein air paintings from the surrounding region. Each painting depicts a specific time and place, and how he perceives those passing moments both visually and emotionally.
In the Speck Gallery, Forever Young by Dee Dee Bernhardt. Forever Young is a study on the enduring echoes of youth, expressed through oil paintings that blend memory, nostalgia, and emotional time travel. The exhibition moves between black-and-white portraits inspired by old Polaroid photographs and brightly colored still lifes of objects from childhood—each piece serving as a fragment of a story both personal and universal.
In the City Gallery, Spectacular by Kyle Ragsdale. This show celebrates Indianapolis' July 4th traditions with vibrant, vertical paintings. Historical figures, animals, and characters climb towers and trellises, seeking the best view of the festivities. Thick palette knife textures and bursts of watercolor and gouache bring the scenes to life in a joyful, towering spectacle.
In the Lift Gallery, Everybody Says JUMP by India Cruse-Griffin. This exhibition explores the joyful spirit of play and imagination that unites generations. Grounded in honesty and a deep commitment to community, Cruse-Griffin’s work reflects the closeness of family as the foundation of creativity and cultural expression.
In the Hank & Dolly’s Gallery, American Reflections by Kyle Morgan. Drawing from an eclectic array of found objects, historical imagery, and traditional artistic elements, Morgan constructs pieces that often take on the form of shadow boxes or shrines.
In the Underground Gallery, Cardboard Forward is a bold exploration of sustainability and creativity—centered entirely around one often-overlooked material: cardboard. Co-curated by Kenny Mason and Johnny McKee, this exhibition challenges traditional notions of what art can and should be by spotlighting cardboard as a transformational medium.
Guests can also enjoy:
In the Historic Gymnasium, stop by for Suspended Animation Aerialists performances throughout the evening!
In the Courtyard, join Allison Schilawski for a free, wearable craft making activity.
On the porch, enjoy homemade Korean food provided by the Korean Presbyterian church of Indianapolis.
On the Sky Deck, take a dance break with DJ Brooke Billions! Kids (and people of all ages) can enjoy bubble machines on the deck throughout the evening.
All shows will open at 6:00 pm on Friday, July 4th.
Visitors can take in-person gallery tours Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Online galleries will open on April 5th. You can make an appointment or view the online galleries at harrisoncenter.org/buy-art.
Special Senior Hours are every Friday from 2:00pm - 4:00pm. No appointment is needed.
With support from Indy Arts Council, City of Indianapolis, Indiana Arts Commission, Lilly Endowment, and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
About the Harrison Center
The Harrison Center is a community-based, nonprofit arts organization that seeks to be a catalyst for renewal in the city of Indianapolis. Founded in 2001, the organization's work is two-fold. The Harrison Center is for the Arts by hosting 40 artists' studios and 8 galleries. It provides programming to foster the creation of new art, build community among artists and emerging patrons, and provide a forum for public conversation. The Harrison Center is for the City by connecting people to culture, community, and place to strengthen Indianapolis's core neighborhoods. For more information on the Harrison Center, call 317.396.3886 or visit www.harrisoncenter.org. Connect with the Harrison Center on social media at Facebook.com/HarrisonCenterArts, Instagram.com/harrisoncenterarts, Youtube.com/hca4thearts, or Twitter.com/HarrisonCtrArts.
June 2025: CYCLO
Chuối Chua by Mailinh Hồ
On June 6th, from 6-9 pm, join us for First Friday! Enjoy these openings:
In the Harrison Gallery, CYCLO by Mailinh Hồ. In this exhibition, Mailinh Hồ presents an array of soft oil paintings and vibrant watercolors as personal reflections. Snapshots of memories, musings on nostalgia and an imagined future come together to ask, “Where are you going and where are you from?” Like a dog chasing its tail, we look behind us and keep on running.
In the Gallery Annex, Backlogged Dreams by Kaylan Buteyn. Buteyn explores memory and the unconscious through textiles, mixed media, and watercolor. Drawing on imagery from her childhood log cabin home, she pieces together fabric, paint, and mark-making in layered compositions that reflect how memories distort and evolve.
In the Speck Gallery, Visual Rhythms by Mike Meares. This collection of acrylic paintings explores the energy of music through layers of line and color. Inspired by the emotions and complexity of song, Meares creates spontaneous works shaped by the rhythms and melodies he listens to. The process reflects the transformative power of music, inviting viewers to experience the emotional depth of sound through visual art.
In the City Gallery, Alternate Route by Phillip Lynam. In this exhibition, Lynam presents paintings and drawings that reflect the quiet beauty found in the light, structure, and geometry of Indianapolis. Working primarily with acrylic, graphite, and colored pencil on panel and paper, Lynam captures fleeting urban moments through a subtle, observational lens.
In the Hank & Dolly’s Gallery, Hanging by a Thread by Liz Hamstra. This vibrant collection plays with the tension between symmetry, asymmetry, and color. Using acrylic and thread on canvas, the artist weaves a kaleidoscopic world where shapes and patterns collide. The embroidery thread adds depth and texture, enhancing the dynamic relationship between the geometric elements and the chaotic landscapes of color.
In the Underground Gallery, Liminal Wonder by Liz Nelson. Liminal Wonder explores beauty in overlooked spaces and moments of transition. Using acrylic and mixed media on wood and canvas, the artist highlights how line, form, and color reveal joy in the mundane and potential in the in-between. Each piece invites quiet reflection and appreciation for subtle shifts that shape our surroundings.
Guests can also enjoy:
Musical performances on the Sky Deck with 2025 Art & Soul featured artist Brandon Lott, thanks to a grant from the Indy Arts Council. Lott began his career in 2014 as a music intern at the Harrison Center while attending Herron High School. In 2022, Brandon signed with 199X Sound, an independently-run artist management company based in LA. His work blends R&B and neo soul with global influences, aiming to inspire listeners to explore their inner selves and question the mysteries of existence.
Bloom Together: Flower-Making Project in the Courtyard. Get creative and help transform our grounds into a vibrant garden of giant blooms! Led by artist Allison Schilawski, this hands-on community art experience invites everyone to design and build large-scale flowers, then “plant” them in the garden beds for all to enjoy.
All shows will open at 6:00 pm on Friday, June 6th.
Visitors can take in-person gallery tours Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Online galleries will open on April 5th. You can make an appointment or view the online galleries at harrisoncenter.org/buy-art.
Special Senior Hours are every Friday from 2:00pm - 4:00pm. No appointment is needed.
With support from Indy Arts Council, City of Indianapolis, Indiana Arts Commission, Lilly Endowment, and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
About the Harrison Center
The Harrison Center is a community-based, nonprofit arts organization that seeks to be a catalyst for renewal in the city of Indianapolis. Founded in 2001, the organization's work is two-fold. The Harrison Center is for the Arts by hosting 40 artists' studios and 8 galleries. It provides programming to foster the creation of new art, build community among artists and emerging patrons, and provide a forum for public conversation. The Harrison Center is for the City by connecting people to culture, community, and place to strengthen Indianapolis's core neighborhoods. For more information on the Harrison Center, call 317.396.3886 or visit www.harrisoncenter.org. Connect with the Harrison Center on social media at Facebook/@HarrisonCenterArts, Instagram/@harrisoncenterarts, Youtube/@hca4thearts, or Twitter/@HarrisonCtrArts.
May 2025: Chasing Light
The 2024 Cannon Blast by Justin Vining
On May 2nd from 6-9pm, join the Harrison Center and Indianapolis Motor Speedway for First Friday, featuring 9 new gallery openings, and our annual Porch Party Indy Kick-Off!
Also featured: Open Studio Night, music at the rooftop bar, suspended aerial animations, competitive yoyo-ing, a classical dance showcase, food trucks, entertainment and music. Pick up your free porch party decor and yard signs while they last!
All month long, race fans are encouraged to show what “This is May” means by porching– hosting a fun racing-themed Porch Party that helps neighbors connect, build local communities, and celebrate the spirit of the Indianapolis 500. Show off your Hoosier pride and encourage your local neighborhood to embrace the energy of May!
In the Harrison Gallery, Chasing Light by Justin Vining. In this exhibition, Justin Vining embraces a bold, swashbuckling painting style, marked by thick, vibrant strokes and confident, direct compositions. This show, featuring a blend of nature scenes and urban landscapes, reflects Vining's unyielding drive to create despite life's demands. Whether in the studio or navigating parenting, his work remains a testament to the necessity of artistic expression as a means of both discovery and balance.
In the Gallery Annex, New Works by Amiah Mims. Through bold color, texture, and composition, Mims expressively captures beauty. The focus of each painting is the delight itself, depicted in a more realistic style than the abstract background, representing something solid amidst the chaos.
Hecho en México by Kyle Ragsdale. This exhibition builds on Ragsdale’s November show, showcasing new work created during his third visit to Guanajuato and a masterclass with Ron Pokrasso. Using monotypes, solar plates, and intricate layering, Ragsdale blends his signature imagery of Mexican cowgirls and Victorian women with vibrant colors, creating textured compositions that reflect his evolving artistic vision.
In the Speck Gallery, Strength in Motion by Johnson Simon and ROSEY. This show explores the resilience found in physical and mental movement, particularly through the lens of disability. This collaboration uses acrylic, oil, and oil stick to express how creativity becomes a powerful outlet for self-expression. The dynamic use of color and form captures the complexity of inner struggles, inviting viewers to reflect on the diverse strength that emerges through the act of creation.
In the City Gallery, Process & Play by JD Bills. This show invites viewers into the space between exploration and execution. This collection highlights a range of styles, materials, and approaches—some polished, some in progress—all reflecting the joy, risk, and curiosity at the heart of the creative process.
In the Hank & Dolly’s Gallery, Dreamscapes and Paradoxes by Kent Brinkley. This show delves into the fluidity of identity, perception, and the vast unknown. Using oil, mixed media, and sculpture, Brinkley blurs the lines between reality and dreams, inviting viewers to question their understanding of existence. The layered forms and paradoxical imagery evoke mystery and introspection, challenging the boundaries of what we see and imagine.
In the Sky Gallery, Astral Itinerary by Deonna Craig. This exhibition draws inspiration from the artist's global travels and personal transformation, capturing themes of movement, discovery, and ancestral connections. Through these works, the artist explores the intersection of cosmic exploration and self-discovery, symbolizing journeys across dimensions and time. Each piece invites viewers to reflect on their own paths of growth and connection to the greater universe.
In the Lift Gallery, May Reverie by Kristi Marsh Watson. Watson seeks to capture the feeling of May through color, movement, and texture, which she achieves through her unique process of spraying and dripping paint onto her surfaces.
In the Underground Gallery, Who Am I to Answer the Call? A Collaborative Exhibition from the Religion, Spirituality, and the Arts Seminar, a program from the Herron School of Art and Design at Indiana University Indianapolis. This exhibition explores the tension between responsibility and doubt, a response to Moses' encounter with the burning bush in Exodus 3.
All shows will open at 6:00 pm on Friday, May 2nd.
Visitors can take in-person gallery tours Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Online galleries will open on April 5th. You can make an appointment or view the online galleries at harrisoncenter.org/buy-art.
Special Senior Hours are every Friday from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm. No appointment is needed.
With support from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indy Arts Council, City of Indianapolis, Indiana Arts Commission, Lilly Endowment, and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
About the Harrison Center
The Harrison Center is a community-based, nonprofit arts organization that seeks to be a catalyst for renewal in the city of Indianapolis. Founded in 2001, the organization's work is two-fold. The Harrison Center is for the Arts by hosting 40 artists' studios and 8 galleries. It provides programming to foster the creation of new art, build community among artists and emerging patrons, and provide a forum for public conversation. The Harrison Center is for the City by connecting people to culture, community, and place to strengthen Indianapolis's core neighborhoods. For more information on the Harrison Center, call 317.396.3886 or visit www.harrisoncenter.org. Connect with the Harrison Center on social media at Facebook/@HarrisonCenterArts, Instagram/@harrisoncenterarts, Youtube/@hca4thearts, or Twitter/@HarrisonCtrArts.
April 2025: Innermost
Manifested by Stephanie Spay
On April 4th, join us for First Friday! Enjoy these openings:
In the Harrison Gallery, Innermost by Stephanie Spay. This stunning oil painting collection delves into the expression of our inner selves. Through gestures, spatial placement, and strategic lighting, the figures and objects in the pieces reveal the inner life of their subjects. The use of ellipses, globes, and domes in the still lifes, along with the lived-in quality of the interiors, symbolizes the emotional and psychological depth of those who inhabit these spaces.
In the Gallery Annex, Here by Jason Bailey. This collection captures the fleeting moments of everyday life, inviting viewers to pause and be present amidst the overlooked places we pass by in our daily routines. With energy, rich textures, and a sense of movement, Bailey’s work encourages reflection on the significance of being present, emphasizing the beauty in what we often fail to notice; it asks viewers to pause and say, “I’m here.”
In the Speck Gallery, The Family of Things by Eliza Mowery. Inspired by Mary Oliver’s poem, “Wild Geese,” this collection of artworks aims to reconnect us with our shared humanity through an appreciation of the beauty we’re standing on. Oliver is well known for her nature-centric writing, and this body of work serves as a visual reflection of the attention she calls to our home.
In the City Gallery, Layered Histories by Caroline Hays. This exhibition explores the complex cultural shifts and events that shape iconic cities, landmarks, and spaces. Through a process of layering—beginning with a map and building up shapes inspired by architecture and history—Hays conveys the personal and collective stories tied to these places. Using neutral colors, gold leaf, and textured surfaces to evoke nostalgia and time’s passage, she invites viewers to engage with the stories that define each space.
In the Hank & Dolly’s Gallery, Blossoms In Bloom by Sharon Bonner. This captivating showcase celebrates the delicate beauty and vibrant colors of the finest blooms. Bonner, an abstract floral artist, captures the essence of nature's rebirth, transforming petals and stems into stunning masterpieces. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply a lover of nature, Blossoms in Bloom promises to inspire and delight.
Guests can also enjoy:
Naptown Roller Derby in the Historic Gymnasium. Join us for an exciting night of fast-paced action! Since 2006, Naptown Roller Derby has been Indy’s home for inclusivity, competition, and community.
Music Performances on the Sky Deck featuring singer-songwriters Andrew Christenberry and Tucker Kryjewski, who will be participating in a 48 Hour Residency with us!
All shows will open at 6:00 pm on Friday, April 4th.
Visitors can take in-person gallery tours Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Online galleries will open on April 5th. You can make an appointment or view the online galleries at harrisoncenter.org/buy-art.
Special Senior Hours are every Friday from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm. No appointment is needed.
With support from Indy Arts Council, City of Indianapolis, Indiana Arts Commission, Lilly Endowment, and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
About the Harrison Center
The Harrison Center is a community-based, nonprofit arts organization that seeks to be a catalyst for renewal in the city of Indianapolis. Founded in 2001, the organization's work is two-fold. The Harrison Center is for the Arts by hosting 40 artists' studios and 8 galleries. It provides programming to foster the creation of new art, build community among artists and emerging patrons, and provide a forum for public conversation. The Harrison Center is for the City by connecting people to culture, community, and place to strengthen Indianapolis's core neighborhoods. For more information on the Harrison Center, call 317.396.3886 or visit www.harrisoncenter.org. Connect with the Harrison Center on social media at Facebook/@HarrisonCenterArts, Instagram/@harrisoncenterarts, Youtube/@hca4thearts, or Twitter/@HarrisonCtrArts.
March 2025: Eleven Eleven
11:11 by Israel Solomon
On March 7th, join us for First Friday! Enjoy these openings:
In the Harrison Gallery, 11:11 by Israel Solomon. A constant in Solomon’s life, 11:11 has consistently appeared on clocks, watches, and other time-keeping paraphernalia since his teenage years. This sequence of numbers represents important and life-changing events or concepts, stories, and ideas that have had impactful meaning in his life.
In the Gallery Annex, 10-Year Portfolio by Mike Graves and the Bridge Collective. This body of work showcases a decade of creative exploration and collaboration. Featuring solo and joint works by BRIDGE Collective artists, it highlights a diverse range of mediums, from collage and acrylic on canvas to direct prints on steel and photography. Viewers are invited to engage with and celebrate the power of artistic collaboration and expression.
In the Speck Gallery, Mother Artists, a group show. Motherhood is an act of creation—of bodies, identities, and futures. The artists in this exhibition embrace the generative tension between caregiving and creating, proving that motherhood and artistry are not in opposition but in dialogue. Their work offers a powerful testament to the complexities of making while mothering.
In the City Gallery, Local Indy by Jennifer Neel. This exhibition showcases a series of paintings representing local businesses throughout Indianapolis. The collection primarily features still-life compositions of goods such as pastries from Rene's Bakery, plants from Grounded & Planted, and storefront scenes like Create Art Indy. By celebrating and supporting these businesses, a connection is fostered between the local economy and the Indianapolis art scene, inviting the community to engage with both.
In the Hank & Dolly’s Gallery, Manifold by Esther Hale. Diving deep into our universe, Hale investigates fundamental paradigms of being through her vibrant exploration of the cosmos. Thanks to technological evolution, humans can better understand their part in the grand scheme of the macrocosm, to no small amount of awe and fear. Esther combats existential and ontological questions by creating oil spacescapes that magnify the wonder and beauty she sees in the world.
In the Underground Gallery, Evolving Patterns: A Decade of Mandalas by Jamie Locke. This exhibition celebrates ten years of artistic growth through the intricate form of mandalas. Showcasing a journey from hand-carved, traditional designs to contemporary laser-cut 3D creations, the exhibition highlights the evolution of technique, craftsmanship, and creative vision. Each piece tells a story of transformation, inviting viewers to reflect on the artist’s development and their connections to the work.
In the Sky Gallery, Sender/Receiver by Eric Lubrick. Lubrick's latest body of work offers a unique exploration of the impact of technology on human connections through the lens of still-life photography. Merging natural and man-made elements, Lubrick evokes a sense of nostalgia for pre-digital socialization. Utilizing innovative techniques, including Liquid Nitrogen and a BB gun, these photographs capture the fleeting moment of impact between objects, inviting viewers to ponder the beauty of real-life abstractions and reconsider the value of genuine human connections in the digital age.
Guests can also enjoy:
Indianapolis Suzuki Academy Chamber Music performances in the Historic Gymnasium from 6:30pm-9:00pm, featuring both students in the academy high school program and their teachers.
In the Sky Gallery, enjoy one of the highest-rated companies for photo booth rental Indianapolis! Bhatta Boom Photo Booth will have their digital booth available all night.
This photo booth is free and offers unlimited sessions. Come bring a friend or loved one and capture a moment during your unforgettable night with us.
Open Studios all night! Visit the artists behind your favorite pieces of work, and get a glimpse into their creative process.
All shows will open at 6:00 pm on Friday, March 7th.
Visitors can take in-person gallery tours Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Online galleries will open on March 8th. You can make an appointment or view the online galleries at harrisoncenter.org/buy-art.
Special Senior Hours are every Friday from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm. No appointment is needed.
With support from Indy Arts Council, City of Indianapolis, Indiana Arts Commission, Lilly Endowment, and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
About the Harrison Center
The Harrison Center is a community-based, nonprofit arts organization that seeks to be a catalyst for renewal in the city of Indianapolis. Founded in 2001, the organization's work is two-fold. The Harrison Center is for the Arts by hosting 40 artists' studios and 8 galleries. It provides programming to foster the creation of new art, build community among artists and emerging patrons, and provide a forum for public conversation. The Harrison Center is for the City by connecting people to culture, community, and place to strengthen Indianapolis's core neighborhoods. For more information on the Harrison Center, call 317.396.3886 or visit www.harrisoncenter.org. Connect with the Harrison Center on social media at Facebook/@HarrisonCenterArts, Instagram/@harrisoncenterarts, Youtube/@hca4thearts, or Twitter/@HarrisonCtrArts.
February 2025: Days Gone By
465 at Sunset by Courtland Blade
On February 7th, join us for First Friday! Enjoy these openings:
In the Harrison Gallery, Days Gone By by Courtland Blade. This body of work is a reflective journey through time, capturing the essence of moments that have shaped our collective and personal histories. Each piece in this collection is a window into the past, painted to evoke nostalgia and contemplation. Through vibrant oil paintings, Blade explores themes of memory, change, and the enduring beauty of familiar spaces.
In the Gallery Annex, Under The Influence by Derrick Carter and There & Back group show curated by Kayla Harvey. Artist Derrick Carter blends his training in graphic design and experimental fine art using an unconventional medium: sand and acrylic paint. These layered paintings explore the artist’s belief that perfection, inspiration, and success are intrinsically linked. Harvey’s project seeks to honor integral figures in the powerful movement of the Harlem Renaissance.
In the Speck Gallery, The Chapel of Love, a group show. In the spirit of connection and collaboration, Chapel of Love celebrates the profound intersection of art and love. Featuring the work of artist couples, this February exhibition honors the creative dialogue that thrives within shared lives and studios; the act of creation becomes a testament to the beauty of working together.
In the City Gallery, Urban Indianapolis & Beyond, by Diane Staver. In this show, Staver captures the dynamic energy of city life through bold colors, graffiti-inspired textures, and architectural forms. Drawing on influences from the Chicago Imagists, her work celebrates the raw beauty of urban environments. Rooted in photographs taken during and after COVID-19, Staver’s art reflects the enduring spirit and rhythm of the cities she draws inspiration from.
In the Lift Gallery, From Elsewhere by Johnny McKee. McKee’s latest body of work showcases a collection of ethereal cloud forms and moody seascape paintings that represent a fictional purlieu of our natural landscape.
In the Hank & Dolly’s Gallery, Elements by Stuart Alter. This exhibition explores the dynamic interplay between human experience and the natural world, reflecting on the forces—both seen and unseen—that shape our existence. This body of work draws inspiration from the structures of urban life, the vibrant energy of cultural traditions, and the cosmic beauty of creation.
In the Underground Gallery, Second Mutation by Ess McKee. In her latest body of work, McKee expands on her previous exploration of graffiti titled Mutations of the Same Essence, integrating more 3D works and larger canvases to delve deeper into the essence of street art. The gallery is transformed into an immersive urban landscape, inviting viewers to engage with the vibrant energy of the pieces in a dynamic new context.
In the Sky Gallery, Sender/Receiver by Eric Lubrick. Lubrick's latest body of work offers a unique exploration of the impact of technology on human connections through the lens of still-life photography. Merging natural and man-made elements, Lubrick evokes a sense of nostalgia for pre-digital socialization. Utilizing innovative techniques, including Liquid Nitrogen and a BB gun, these photographs capture the fleeting moment of impact between objects, inviting viewers to ponder the beauty of real-life abstractions and reconsider the value of genuine human connections in the digital age.
Guests can also enjoy:
The Annual Winter Window Walk outside around the perimeter of our building. This year, we introduced art and literature to the Window Walk with the theme BookTok. Local artists created three-dimensional displays in our street-level basement windows, recreating the nostalgia of reading their favorite literature.
Live Jazz Band with Arts With a Purpose in the Historic Gymnasium. Renowned musicians such as Cathy Morris and Rob Dixon will be performing. Let the soulful rhythms transport you while celebrating creativity and community.
Indianapolis Animal Care Services adoption booth in the lower level. Stop by this heartwarming event and see if you could end up bringing home a new friend!
All shows will open at 6 pm on Friday, February 7th.
Visitors can take in-person gallery tours Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Online galleries will open on February 8th. You can make an appointment or view the online galleries at harrisoncenter.org/buy-art.
Special Senior Hours are every Friday from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm. No appointment is needed.
With support from Indy Arts Council, City of Indianapolis, Indiana Arts Commission, Lilly Endowment, and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
About the Harrison Center
The Harrison Center is a community-based, nonprofit arts organization that seeks to be a catalyst for renewal in the city of Indianapolis. Founded in 2001, the organization's work is two-fold. The Harrison Center is for the Arts by hosting 40 artists' studios and 8 galleries. It provides programming to foster the creation of new art, build community among artists and emerging patrons, and provide a forum for public conversation. The Harrison Center is for the City by connecting people to culture, community, and place to strengthen Indianapolis's core neighborhoods. For more information on the Harrison Center, call 317.396.3886 or visit www.harrisoncenter.org. Connect with the Harrison Center on social media at Facebook/@HarrisonCenterArts, Instagram/@harrisoncenterarts, Youtube/@hca4thearts, or Twitter/@HarrisonCtrArts.
January 2025: From Elsewhere
From Elsewhere by Johnny Mckee
On January 3rd, join us for First Friday! Enjoy these openings:
In the Harrison Gallery,
From Elsewhere by Johnny McKee. McKee’s latest body of work showcases a collection of ethereal cloud forms and moody seascape paintings that represent a fictional purlieu of our natural landscape.
In the Gallery Annex,
Loser’s Exodus by Rebecca Entrican. This collection of oil paintings reflects the artist's journey from her undergraduate thesis to three years post-graduation. The older works focus on memories captured through stuffed animals, while the newer pieces evolve this concept, using various objects as symbols to narrate a personal tapestry of life experiences.
In the Speck Gallery,
Subterraneous Sheltering by Fredricka Joyner. An exhibit featuring a series of collaged and painted landscapes that envision a chaotic underworld, where both beauty and peril coexist, giving rise to the potential for vibrant new life. The artist incorporates a diverse range of materials, including fragments from high-fashion magazines, manipulated photographs, and various maps, to create a rich tapestry of color, texture, and pattern in this subterranean realm.
In the City Gallery,
Faces of the Block, a group exhibit. This annual group exhibition features portraits of long-term community members created during the Harrison Center’s weekly Storytelling Drawing Sessions, highlighting the expressive power of art and narrative.
In the Hank & Dolly’s Gallery,
Thermite Glow by Chad Campbell. The artist's unique creations, characterized by intricate wire figures and captivating mobiles, explore the profound theme of transforming personal struggles into valuable strengths. Through delicate craftsmanship, these artworks vividly illustrate how challenges can be reimagined as opportunities for growth and resilience, inviting viewers to reflect on their own journeys of overcoming adversity.
In the Underground Gallery,
Second Mutation by Ess McKee. In her latest body of work, McKee expands on her previous exploration of graffiti titled Mutations of the Same Essence, integrating more 3D works and larger canvases to delve deeper into the essence of street art. The gallery is transformed into an immersive urban landscape, inviting viewers to engage with the vibrant energy of the pieces in a dynamic new context.
In the Sky Gallery,
Sender/Receiver by Eric Lubrick. Lubrick’s latest body of work offers a unique exploration of the impact of technology on human connections through the lens of still-life photography. Merging natural and man-made elements, Lubrick evokes a sense of nostalgia for pre-digital socialization. Utilizing innovative techniques, including Liquid Nitrogen and a BB gun, these photographs capture the fleeting moment of impact between objects, inviting viewers to ponder the beauty of real-life abstractions and reconsider the value of genuine human connections in the digital age.
Guests can also enjoy:
The Annual Winter Window Walk outside around the perimeter of our building. This year, we introduced art and literature to the Window Walk with the theme BookTok. Local artists created three-dimensional displays in our street-level basement windows, recreating the nostalgic feeling of reading their favorite literature.
All shows will open at 6 pm on Friday, January 3rd.
Visitors can take in-person gallery tours Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Online galleries will open on January 4th. You can make an appointment or view the online galleries at harrisoncenter.org/buy-art.
Special Senior Hours are every Friday from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm. No appointment is needed.
With support from Indy Arts Council, City of Indianapolis, Indiana Arts Commission, Christel DeHaan Family Foundation, Lilly Endowment, and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
About the Harrison Center
The Harrison Center is a community-based, nonprofit arts organization that seeks to be a catalyst for renewal in the city of Indianapolis. Founded in 2001, the organization's work is two-fold. The Harrison Center is for the Arts by hosting 40 artists' studios and 8 galleries. It provides programming to foster the creation of new art, build community among artists and emerging patrons, and provide a forum for public conversation. The Harrison Center is for the City by connecting people to culture, community, and place to strengthen Indianapolis's core neighborhoods. For more information on the Harrison Center, call 317.396.3886 or visit www.harrisoncenter.org. Connect with the Harrison Center on social media at Facebook/@HarrisonCenterArts,