The Indianapolis Public Library’s African American History Committee Celebrating 36th Anniversary of “Meet the Artists” with “All-Star” Exhibit and Event
Meet the Artists, an annual exhibit celebrating Indianapolis’ prominent African American artists, will return to celebrate its 36th anniversary at Central Library. This year’s showcase will feature an “All-Star” theme, paying tribute to the NBA All-Star Weekend taking place in downtown Indianapolis. Art will be on display throughout Central Library from January 31 to March 23, and a free gala opening reception will take place on Saturday, February 17, from 5:40 to 10 p.m.
This year's free pre-show red carpet experience will take place in the Simon Reading Room near the Center for Black Literature and Culture's doors, 5:15 – 5:40 p.m., with The Fabulous Mr. Patrick. This special experience will include live models, live music, interviews, and a 360 photo booth. The doors to the Gala will open at 5:40 p.m.
The gala opening reception will be hosted by special guests Steve “Scoop” Jefferson and Karen Campbell, former and current talent of WTHR. Featured entertainment at the event will include a fashion show, live music and DJ, a comedian, poet, Illusionists, youth workshops and entertainment, and a full gallery of 2D, 3D, written, and youth artwork on display.
Cordia Watkins, circulation manager and chairperson of the Indianapolis Public Library’s African American History Committee, says Meet the Artists was created to supply an avenue for local, talented African American artists to show off their creative works, and that many of the involved artists might not otherwise have a chance to appear in front of such a large audience. The event provides an opportunity to educate the community at large and promote the work of the artists.
“Meet the Artists is an event where we celebrate not only the artists' craft, but we also celebrate their culture,” said Watkins, “These artists create positive, thought-provoking work through artistic mediums. We invite you to see how this artwork inspires your own thoughts, feelings, or conversations.
A variety of art styles will be on display at Central Library, including large sculptures, paintings, and jewelry. In addition, the written works of local Black authors will be on display.
“Meet the Artists is my favorite event here at the Indianapolis Public Library,” said Gregory Hill, CEO of The Library. “I am especially looking forward to attending this year—the talent is exciting and we will be part of the vibrant downtown during the NBA All Stars. It is a privilege to serve with my colleagues on the Library’s African American History Committee, and to bring this program to the public.”
Curator: Anthony (Tony) Radford
South Display Hall, Simon Reading Room, and the Center for Black Literature & Culture
Aaron Dorsett
Ana Beverly
Bernade Flournoy
D. Powell - Smith
James Pate
Jeana Ouatarra
Kenneth Hordge
Kenny Mason
Lundyn-Christelle
Mychael Shane
Nick Hoggs
Omar Rashan
Precious Jewel
Robert Burden Jr
Rochelle Richardson
Tiffany Ra Chel
T-Marie Artistry
Ronald A. Craig Jr
Textile Artists | Upright Display Cases on Floors 3-5
Derek Tuder
Gary Gee
Januarie York
Matthew Cooper
Regina Jordan
Large Sculpture Artists | Installation on Floors 3-4
Dennis Green:
We Are Indy Arts Collaborative piece
Youth Exhibit | Simon Reading Room
Dallas Garrett
Authors | Display Case Floor 3
Charlotte L. Brown -Parrott
Mattie Jones
Raynandole Poindexter
Featured Performers
Special Guest MCs: Steve "Scoop" Jefferson & Karen Campbell
DJ: DJiSM
Comedian: Robert "Sweaty Hands" Day
Gospel Choir: Trebor Williams & The Warriors
Fashion Show Director: Ms Nicole Rene’
Saxophonist: J. Saxton
Band: Toy Factory
Poet: jus Will
Illusionist: Spellbinder
Food Vendor: Jumbo Jive Turkey
360 Photo Booth: Charkym Unlimited LLC
Photographer: Ryze Media
Youth Workshops & Entertainment
Face Painting: Cinamon the Clown
Balloon Twisting: Tiphanny Keyes
Tech Zoo: Interactive Gadgets
STEM Craft: Nyla Nova Stemversity
Made possible by Friends of the Library through gifts to The Indianapolis Public Library Foundation.