Black Female Artists Are Transforming Indianapolis

Local Black women artists are turning Indy’s boarded-up windows into temporary but powerful works of art. If you’re strolling around Downtown or along Mass Ave., make sure to stop by Homespun to see a bright, uplifting expression of unity created by Shade Bell (pictured above), or visit Union Station to see works-in-progress by Rebecca Robinson, Ess McKee, and Brittney Box.

The murals are part of a new project that connects Downtown Indy business and property owners with Black artists who are reimagining plywood into reflections on their personal realities and experiences. Though the murals might not be up for very long, they’ll become important platforms to show solidarity for Black Lives Matter. 

The project is organized by PATTERN, St’ArtUp 317, and the Arts Council of Indianapolis, which are paying the artists’ fees (though businesses are encouraged to contribute if they can) and providing other resources. If you’re interested in donating or participating as a local artist or business, you can find more information here.

And if you miss the murals this time around, don’t worry: They’ll be preserved and featured in a later exhibition along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail for all to see and experience. 

Photos: Kate Oberreich