INDIANAPOLIS — The month of May is very special to Hoosiers — especially those in Indianapolis. As we gear up for the Indy 500, PopCon, Asian Fest, the Broad Ripple Art Fair, the Mini-Marathon, and Indianapolis Indians baseball, kick it off right with First Friday.
On May 1, join the Harrison Center and Indianapolis Motor Speedway for First Friday and our annual Porch Party Kick-Off Also featured will be Open Studio Night, food trucks, and a variety of dance and aerial performances. Pick up your free porch party decor and yard signs while they last! In the Harrison Gallery, Urushi Odyssey by Nhat Tran. This collection of urushi artworks showcases a centuries-old art form on diverse supports like wood, ceramic, and plexiglass. It is one of many shows in the galleries of the Harrison Center, located at 1505 N. Delaware.
Irvington First Friday is always buzzing, and this month is important to all the businesses who have seen less traffic due to the road closure at Ritter and E. Washington. Join the Irving Theatre at 5505 E. Washington St. for First Friday Music with Marrialle Sellars, Cigar Box Scott, Delta Duo, and Owen Neighbors. Enjoy a great evening of music and don’t forget to browse and enjoy the art from many of the area’s artists. Coolers and lawn chairs welcome. Cash tip jar supports the musicians.
In Irvington Carpenter Realtor (5636 E. Washington – next to Jockamo) will be open 6 – 9 p.m. for First Friday. Showcasing artwork for sale by local Indianapolis artists. This includes Limestone pieces by artist Asher Bennington and Stained Glass art by Taylor Shirek. Also featuring a permanent collection of Historic Indiana artists. Also check out the First Friday opening at New Quantum Realty (5610 E. Washington) from 5 – 9 p.m. They will be featuring artist Carol Morotti with her Sculptural Still Lifes using organic materials and Scott Westphal with his welded aluminum, steel and bronze sculptures. Stop by and meet the artist, buy some art, and have some snacks and drinks.
While you’re in Irvington, check out the shops and restaurants along E. Washington St., Johnson Ave., and Bonna Ave. a few blocks south.
In the Factory Arts District, there will be several shows, including “Only Indiana” by Bill Foley in the Schwitzer Callery, and the IU Indianapolis Herron School of Art and Grace M Studio Jewelry in the Stokol Gallery. There will be a food truck outside Centerpoint Brewing. Join Dance Kaleidoscope for a fun evening featuring 20-minute student performances at 6:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. Also, take part in their “So You Think You Can Dance” challenge. Learn about summer camps and classes, and strike your best pose in the photo booth.
The Murphy Arts Center, opens every First Friday, featuring a wide-range of exciting and talented artists and vendors. On the 2nd Floor of the Murphy Arts Center in beautiful Fountain Square, you’ll find an eclectic blend of emerging artists and artisans. The Murphy is at 1043 Virginia Ave. in the former five-and-dime G.C. Murphy Building, and is now a hub for creatives and events. There are several restaurants within walking distance, as well as in the building on the first floor.
