INDIANAPOLIS — The Harrison Center threw an impromptu Porch Party on July 17 at the corner of 16th and Lewis Street in Indianapolis to honor the six subjects of Abi Ogle’s public art exhibit, “Greatriarchs of Monon16.” As a precursor to PreEnactIndy 2018, the exhibit is a tribute to the strength and resilience of six incredible African American individuals who reside in and have spent their lives loving the community. The portraits are a powerful reminder of the growth, change and strong heritage that makes Monon16 a resilient and inclusive neighborhood.
Ogle unveiled six portraits in total, honoring Terri Taylor, Jimmie Lytton, Pearl Carter, Shirley Webster, Joanna LeNoir and Michael “Willie” Hawkins.
Motorists and pedestrians alike will encounter the portraits as they cross over the Monon Trail heading east on 16th Street. Each “greatriarch” is painted purple, a color that is associated historically with royalty. A detailed description and the artist’s thoughts behind the inspiration for each portrait can be found on the Harrison Center website, www.harrisoncenter.org
PreEnactIndy 2018 will be held, rain or shine, on Sat., Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on three blocks of 16th Street from the Monon Trail to Dr. Andrew J. Brown Avenue in Indianapolis. The event is free and open to the public. To find more information, visit www.preenactment.org or follow the hashtag #PreEnactyIndy.