INDIANAPOLIS — One of the city’s most celebrated cultural events will return for its 27th annual engagement when the works of 17 locally prominent African-American artists will be on display during “Meet the Artists,” through March 28 at Central Library, 40 E. St. Clair St.
The exhibit provides an avenue for African-American artists to showcase their works which represent a variety of artistic mediums created under this year’s theme, “Art With Passion.” Several artists will participate, including James Pate, Latoya Malin, Tasha Beckwith, Lobyn Hamilton, and Dennis Green. Two youth art exhibits will be on display. One is created by students from the summer art camp at the East Thirty-Eighth Street Branch, under the direction of artist and “Meet the Artists” curator Tony Radford. The other is an exhibit of pencil art drawings by Lawrence North High School student Sean M. Polley.
There will be a special Valentine’s Day “Meet the Artists Gala Reception” on Feb. 14 from 5 – 10 p.m. at Central Library. This free event will feature a number of performances and presentations from several groups, including Urban Vibes African Drum Troupe; the Brian Reeves & Heart After God Ministries gospel choir; and spoken word artist Tammy Burrus. The evening will include a special tribute to noted local poet Mari Evans, as well as the “Fashion Passion” fashion show coordinated by Alpha Blackburn. Also, young people are invited to participate in workshops on storytelling, jewelry-making, crocheting and balloon sculpting taking place from 6 – 8:30 p.m. throughout Central Library.
A number of local authors also will be on hand to sell and sign copies of their books, including Sonny Bates (The Creole Affair); Dr. Stanley Warren (Crispus Attucks High School: Hail to the Green, Hail to the Gold); Faith McKinney (Schmingling).
Participating artists also will appear at a First Friday event on March 7 from 6 – 9 p.m. at Central Library, during which the public can attend artist demonstrations and enjoy music and refreshments.
To learn more about the free “Meet the Artists” exhibit and Gala, call 275-4022 or visit www.indypl.org.
