Meet the Artists, an annual exhibit celebrating Indianapolis’ prominent African American artists, returns to Central Library from January 26, 2022, through April 2, 2022.

This year's gallery features the work of the Eighteen, the creators of the #BlackLivesMatter mural on Indiana Avenue. The colorful mural, created during the George Floyd protests, was part of a nationwide movement to design street murals that honor Floyd’s life and inspire individuals to reflect on the causes of equality and justice.

“The talented creatives that make up the Eighteen are civically engaged and passionate about uplifting the community through art. We are honored to have the opportunity to highlight their work,” said Tony Radford, artist-in-residence with Indianapolis Public Library. “While our opening reception has been postponed to limit large gatherings that could expose staff and patrons to Covid-19, we hope people will find time to mask up, come out, and support the artists by viewing the gallery at Central Library.”

A variety of art styles will be on display at Central Library, including large sculptures, paintings, and jewelry. In addition, the work of local Black authors will be on display. Patrons that are unable to visit in person can view a sample of the 2022 Meet the Artists XXXIV exhibit online.

“The Library and Meet the Artists hope to provide a place where artists can celebrate both their craft and culture,” said John Helling, interim CEO of Indianapolis Public Library. “For 34 years, we’ve found opportunities to celebrate the artists despite bad weather, building construction, and a pandemic. We are excited to have the gallery available again in 2022.”

Meet the Artists XXXIV is made possible by Christel DeHaan Family Foundation and Friends of the Library through gifts to The Indianapolis Public Library Foundation. It is presented by the Library's African American History Committee in support of the Center for Black Literature & Culture at Central Library.

A list of artists involved can be viewed below:

MTA 2022 Special Featured Artist: the EIGHTEEN

1. Dr. Jarrod Nicholas Dortch

2. Kyng Rhodes

3. Rebecca Robinson

4. Amiah Mims(Mimsy)

5. Billy Hoodoo

6. Kevin West

7. John Moore

8. Gary Gee

9. Deonna Craig

10. Rae Parker

11. Ess McKee

12. Wavy Blaine

13. Harriet Watson

14. FITZ

15. Israel Solomon

16. Shamira Wilson – not available

17. Ashley Nora

18. Finger Creations

MTA Textile Artists

Ariel Jorman – Dolls 50 Shades of Black

Kionde Brooks-Beard – Jewelry

Leo Ra’Chel - Hats

Youth Artists:

Quamil Lamar Dupree Jr.

Reclaimed Art:

KIPP Indianapolis School

Large Sculpture Artists on floors 3-4:

D. Del Reverda-Jennings

Dr. Winterbourne Harrison Jones

Authors:

Ariel Jorman - This Is Us, Black Excellence, Black Excellence II

Eunice Trotter – Black Indiana

Antwan L. Houser - Fairy Tales & Faith lessons for a real happily ever after

Qiana Tucker - Life’s Journey in the Valley

K. R. S. McEntire - Saving Eden, Finding Eden, Making Eden

Dr. Theron Williams - The Bible is Black History Children’s Edition: The Bible is Black History for Children

Celebrate local Black artists during Meet the Artists XXXIV at Central Library