These 6 Public Art Installations In Indiana Will Leave You Feeling Inspired
By Benjamin Clancy|Published October 21, 2020
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Benjamin Clancy
Author
Benjamin Clancy is the Illinois and Indiana writer at Only In Your State, a doctoral candidate at UNC Chapel Hill in Communication, and an artistic type who has attended the Vermont Studio Center residency in poetry writing and makes something like music as "little other." They grew up in Austin, Texas and currently live in Chicago, IL with their partner, two dogs, and a cat. Get in touch by emailing bclancy@onlyinyourstate.com.
Art is everywhere in Indiana. From the Indianapolis International Airport to New Albany, public art is an important part of what puts the Hoosier State on the map. Not only do public art projects offer a unique portrait of the independent spirit and culture of Indiana, but they have also been critical parts of city revitalization initiatives across the state. Take a tour of these six murals and installations, and find something new to inspire you in Indy.
You may not immediately associate airports with art, but don't overlook the rich displays at the Indianapolis International Airport. Featuring abstract murals like this work from local Indiana artist James Wille Faust...
...and JETSTREAM by Robert Fisher: a playful installation work that brings a whole new dimension to the tedium of travel. The Indianapolis International Airport also has rotating exhibitions that reflect on the state and its history. So, every time you fly, keep your eyes peeled for fresh art. The Indianapolis International Airport is located at 7800 Col. H. Weir Cook Memorial Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46241.
The only art collected in a museum on this list, the 92 County Walk is a famous series of installations at the Indiana State Art Museum that symbolize the defining qualities of every Indiana county. This is a great and efficient way to see what makes Indiana's counties so unique without having to travel to all 92 yourself. The Indiana State Museum is located at 650 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
This Indianapolis clock is both a famous city landmark and an ornately designed piece of art. Your time in Indiana won't be the same without seeing it. You can find the clock near Monument Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46204.
Public art also pops up everywhere outside of Indianapolis. It has been, for example, a critical part of the redevelopment of New Albany. This stunning sculpture represents the state's historical development and attempts to help address that issue by contributing to New Albany's cultural revitalization. Begin your exploration of New Albany at 201 E Spring St, New Albany, IN 47150.
A huge part of the work that public art does is to help revitalize communities and turn them into cultural centers. Nowhere is this better displayed, perhaps, than in Fountain Square in Indianapolis, which is full of fascinating and culturally rich graffiti-style murals like this one by Devious made during the annual Subsurface Graffiti expo...
...or these two gorgeous, uncredited graffiti murals that capture Indy's weird and wonderful side. You may not typically associate graffiti art with community revitalization, but these amazing displays of creativity have made Fountain Square a cultural destination for locals and tourists alike.
What's the Hoosier State without its history of basketball? Just because it's art doesn't mean it can't tap into Indy's athlete spirit. This mural depicting legendary Indiana basketball start Larry Bird clearly illustrates this. Though it's located in Fountain Square Park, this mural deserves its own spot because of its iconic status. It's also not without its share of controversy: modifications to the mural are planned because Larry Bird has objected to being depicted as a "tattoo guy." Find Fountain Square at 1105 Prospect St, Indianapolis, IN 46203.
Public art is for the people. The Hoosier State is full of inspiring surprises for those seeking an artistic experience. The nature of public art is that it is often temporary, changing, and moving, so we’re bound to have overlooked a bold statement or two here. What are your favorite piece of public art or Indiana outdoor art installations we left out? What Indiana art leaves you feeling inspired? We love seeing your photos and hearing your stories. Get in touch!
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