• The first Irvington Plein Air arts event was a huge success on May 8, with nearly 30
Paula Nicewanger/Weekly View
Plein Air painter David Seward on Julian painting during the Paint Out.
artists participating in the “paint out.” Artists chose sites in the historic neighborhood, including the Kile Oak, the Bona Thompson Memorial Center, the Benton House, the Irving Theatre, and the odd alley and streetscape as well. Afterwards, the Indiana Plein Air Painters Association members gathered at the Bona and sold their wet painting. It is hoped this will be an annual gathering!
• The grand opening of the Fort Ben Cultural Campus has been delayed to June 18. Originally slated for May 22, the campus building has been delayed by pandemic restrictions and weather. When completed, the campus on Otis Ave. in Lawrence will feature a visual arts building, various walks, the fully renovated theatre, and the world’s first permanent Musical Swings.
• The Garfield Park Vintage Movie Night for May features Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954) on May 29 from 9 p.m. at Garfield Park in the Corporate Shelter. Pre-registration is required. Visit gpacarts.org/events for more information and a link to register. It’s only $5 per person and concessions are available. Due to COVID-19, films will only be shown outdoors with social distancing and masks required.
• Beech Grove will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, May 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Hornet Park Community Center. The meeting is to hear public comment and to vote on the Interlocal Agreement for Fire Services with the City of Indianapolis. No other business will be discussed. The public is invited, but must wear masks and socially distance. Hornet Park Community Center is located at 5245 Hornet Ave.
• Time entry tickets are no longer required at the Garfield Park Conservatory on the southeast side. Stop by and explore the exotic plans for only $2 per person. The conservatory and Sunken Gardens are located near Raymond and Shelby streets.
• Heads up to artists on the east side: 10 East Arts is looking for artists who have new or gently used art supplies for a swap they’re having June 5 at their HQ. Drop-off date is June 3 & 4, and the day of the event will be that Saturday. This will be a chance for creative people to get together to swap supplies and ideas. Visit 10eastarts.org for more information about the swap.
• Congratulations to the Indianapolis Indians for the first home games since August 2019. We’ve missed seeing them at Victory Field!
• On Friday, May 14, BikeParty Indianapolis will host Operation Warp Speed Racing at South Street Square Park, located at the park at South, Alabama, and Henry streets. BikeParty offers free social bike rides around Indy just for fun, and its free. The race is just for fun, and also free. Bikes must have lights, bells, and costumes are encouraged. Visit the BikeParty Indianapolis Facebook page for more information.