Converted from paper version of the Broad Ripple Gazette (v05n01)
Hoosier Salon: Promoting Indiana artists for 83 years - By Candance Lasco
posted: Jan. 04, 2008
By Candance Lasco
You do not have to travel all over the state to sample a wide variety of art from Indiana's finest. If you want to own the real thing and not copies, you can find something that sings to your soul. If you respect history and the talent of Indiana artists, you will find it nestled less than a block off College. For "Indiana Art at its Best," take a little time and visit the Hoosier Salon Fine Arts Gallery.
Hoosier Salon Executive Director Amy Kindred stands proudly between two fellow workers of the gallery.
image courtesy of Candance Lasco
Ladies who lunch are responsible for the birth of Hoosier Salon. In 1925, Capone was doing his best to outsmart the Feds and Edward Hopper showed "House by the Railroad". The Goodman Theatre began its long run in Chicago and, there in the Windy City, several visionary women from Indiana sought to show the public that there were outstanding artists in Indiana. Their vision resulted in the first Hoosier Salon exhibition at the Marshall Fields and Company Galleries. Artists, such as T.C. Steele and William Forsyth, showed the best talent that Indiana had to offer. Eighty-three years later, the exhibition is a proudly held annual tradition. Moved from Illinois to Indiana in 1942, the Indiana State Museum has been home to the exhibition for the past 17 years. In 2007, 180 works of art were juried for the show from 537 entries. Best of show was "Expectations", an oil by James Viewegh, an Associate Professor in the Department of Art and Design at the University of Indianapolis. Whether it is C.W. Mundy's bronze, "The Overcomer" or "Times Change" by Jan Hunt Wiley, the Hoosier Salon continues to realize the original vision of the Daughters of Indiana.
Executive Director Amy Kindred is petite and energetic. An artist in her own right, she has a wealth of experience from teaching to art administration. This has prepared her well for directing the many activities of the Hoosier Salon and fulfilling its mission of promoting Hoosier artists and their art. In addition to the Annual Exhibition, the organization is very involved throughout the year. The 65th Street building has three main rooms which display glass, sculpture, painting and other media. The Indiana Masters Room exhibits artists that have won merit by being accepted into the juried exhibit and receiving prize money for their excellence. Paintings by Doug David, portraits by Roger Merkel and works by Mary Ann Davis are examples of what is showcased. Another room is reserved for rotating exhibitions. There are eight shows held every year in the Village. With offerings such as Wide World of Indiana and Salon de Refuse Exhibit, art lovers can find landscapes to mixed contemporary. The largest space is reserved for consignment in which artist members of the salon display pieces for sale. For as little as 25 dollars for a Joan Schneider glass pumpkin to several thousand for an oil painting, there is something for all tastes and budgets.
"Misty Morning at New Harmony" by Douglas David, "Sophie" by Roger Merkel and "Vista" by Mary Ann Davis. All of the above can be seen on display at the Hoosier Salon.
image courtesy of Hoosier Salon
The Hoosier Salon is more than just exhibitions. This non-profit organization is supported by approximately 1,100 patrons including artists and individuals. With gifts and grants from organizations such as Kappa Kappa Kappa and the Indiana Art Commission, the group reaches out to schools and the community. An interactive CD-ROM entitled "Landscape Painting in Indiana, A Modern Art" is offered gratis to Indiana schools.
The "Lunch with an Artist" program introduces children to many talented individuals. Artist Kathy Cunningham maintains the website. Perusing the online gallery is eye candy. Thirty-four sites in Indiana can take advantage of mini-shows. North in the Delphi Public Library you will find an exhibit. Near the state's western border, New Harmony's Hoosier Salon Gallery offers workshops. Whether it is Jasper or Plymouth, art is alive in Indiana and we need to thank Hoosier Salon for 83 years of keeping their flame.