The Distant Thunder exhibition by Artists for Climate Awareness is on display in the Flex Space at Pillar Arts Alliance Center until Wednesday, April 30. Their talented members created several beautiful pieces that speak to our environment and the current climate crisis. It’s been a great month so far, and we look forward to welcoming Sara Steffey McQueen to the Flex Space in May.

Next month we have an incredible lineup of events including an Innovation & the Arts Workshop led by Alain Barker, group bellydance classes with Donna Carlton, and more. Whether you visit us at Pillar Arts By Hand or the Alliance Center, we look forward to seeing and connecting with you in our galleries!

Pillar Arts Reporting for Duty

This change builds upon the identity we’ve built as Arts Alliance, and we look forward to the continued relationships, programs, and values that have shaped our organization. Our new name allows us to be more inclusive while continuing to invest locally, through artist showcases, partnerships, and the expansion of our physical presence in downtown Bloomington. The acquisition of By Hand Gallery is part of that commitment as a step toward long-term sustainability and greater support for artists in the region.

Design, language, and visibility all play a role in shaping perception, and we want to ensure Pillar Arts feels as open and welcoming as the community it represents. Every element of this transition aims to reflect who we are and who we support: artists, makers, craftspeople, and community advocates. The structure may look a little different, but the heart of it remains grounded in creativity and connection.

We’re excited about new opportunities possible with Pillar Arts as we continue to grow through collaboration with and dedication to our members. As always, our momentum is powered by the people who show up, speak out, and create with us. Thank you for being part of the foundation. To follow along with our journey, you can connect with us on Instagram or Facebook, and stay tuned for more!

Upcoming Events with Pillar Arts

Distant Thunder by Artists for Climate Awareness – Flex Space

Wednesday, April 2 – Tuesday, April 29

This month we are happy to feature Distant Thunder presented by Artists for Climate Awareness at the Pillar Arts Alliance Center until Tuesday, April 29. The exhibition opened on April 2nd along with an artist reception on April 6th, displaying a collection of works that explore the pressing environmental issues facing our world today. Through the perspective of diverse artists, this exhibition encourages viewers to reflect on the impact of climate change and the power of art in driving social change. Such an immersive experience that highlights the role of art in raising awareness about urgent global challenges.

The reception was followed by Ceremony for Our Land, in partnership with IU First Nations. This celebration featured four diverse interdisciplinary artists and two dynamic spoken word poetry performances. Thank you to all who came together to celebrate our community and land, and engage with thought-provoking artistic expressions. This exhibition offers an opportunity to connect with the mission of Artists for Climate Awareness. Swing by the Alliance Center to learn more about their ongoing efforts in environmental advocacy.

Spring Session dates: March 27, April 3, 10, 17, 24 and May 1

Join us Thursday evenings at the Flex Space in the Pillar Arts Alliance Center in College Mall for an engaging bellydance workshop led by longtime instructor Donna Carlton. These classes offer a mix of drills, combinations, and exercises designed for beginners or dancers with some previous experience. It’s a great opportunity to get started, brush up on your technique, and reconnect with movement in a supportive and fun environment.

The spring session runs through May 1, and with only a few classes left, now’s the perfect time to jump in. An intermediate course is offered from 6:00-7:00 PM and a beginner-friendly “Intro to Bellydance” class is offered from 7:10–8:00 PM, perfect for those new to bellydance or looking for a refresher. Private lessons are also available via Zoom or in person by appointment. For details or to sign up, contact Donna Carlton at (812) 330-1831 or visit allaboutbellydance.com.

Nature Made by Sara Steffey McQueen – Flex Space

Thursday, May 1 – Thursday, May 29

This May, Pillar Arts is proud to present Nature Made—a solo exhibition by Sara Steffey McQueen, a talented local artist whose work is deeply rooted in nature, intuitive exploration, and years of creative practice. As a Bloomington resident for over 50 years, Sara draws inspiration from the gentle beauty of the Midwest, spiritual traditions, and her own rich life experiences as an artist, teacher, grandmother, and environmental advocate. Her work spans watercolor, acrylic, handmade papers, and natural materials, blending impressionistic realism with expressive abstraction, inviting viewers into a world where creativity and nature are intertwined.

The exhibition will be on display from Thursday, May 1 through Thursday, May 29 at the Pillar Arts Alliance Center in College Mall. Join us for a special artist reception on Saturday, May 9 at 5 PM, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet Sara, enjoy food and drinks, and connect with fellow art lovers in the community. We can’t wait to see you in our gallery next month!

The Foundation of a Sustainable Life in the Arts by Alain Barker – Flex Space

Saturday, May 3

We are inviting local artists to a free, hands-on workshop focused on building financial sustainability in the arts. Led by Alain Barker, Director of Entrepreneurship & Career Development at the IU Jacobs School of Music, this two-hour session will offer valuable insights and practical tools for navigating the financial side of a creative career. The workshop will begin with an engaging Design Thinking exercise to spark new ideas and help participants reframe their approach to financial planning and creative growth.

Topics will include budgeting, income generation, grant writing, fundraising, and marketing. They are tailored specifically for working artists. Whether you’re just emerging or have years of experience, you’ll leave with actionable strategies to support long-term sustainability and success. Join us at the Pillar Arts Alliance Center in College Mall. This event is free and open to the public, and we encourage artists of all disciplines to attend. No registration is required—just bring your curiosity and come ready to explore new ideas for supporting your creative work.

Pillar Arts Alliance Center Artist: Dave Cosentino

Dave is especially passionate about transforming wood from family heirloom trees into lasting works of art, giving new life to timber that might otherwise be lost. His workshop, located in the Bloomington area, also serves as a monthly gathering space for The Village Woodturners, a local chapter of the American Association of Woodturners. Together, the group shares techniques, ideas, and a love for the craft with woodturners of all skill levels. You can find Dave’s pieces at the Art Alliance Gallery in College Mall, as well as The Upstairs Artisans in Nashville, Indiana.

RECENT EVENTS

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Iterations of Energy

Fri April 18th, 5:00-8:00pm (EDT)

The FAR

• People’s Co-op Market is proud to sponsor this upcoming event with The FAR & Samia Halaby! We are also excited that Ross Gay will be reading poetry for this event. Join us at the FAR! The reception will be from 5:00pm to 8:00pm and the artwork will be on display from April 15th – 19th at the FAR from 11:00am to 5:00pm each day.

Montage Film Festival | IU Cinema

Fri April 18th, 7:00-9:00pm (EDT)

IU Cinema

• The Sixth Annual Montage Film Festival is IU’s annual celebration of student-produced films. Submitted films are viewed and judged by IU alumni and awarded in several categories, including Best in Show, Best Cinematography, and Best Acting or Performance. Montage is a collaboration between IU Cinema and The Media School.

Mind Unveiled: Psychedelic Fest

Sat April 19th, 1:30-11:30pm (EDT)

Buskirk-Chumley Theater

• Join the Indiana Psychedelic Society for a groundbreaking celebration of psychedelic advancements at the Buskirk Chumley Theater. This unique event explores consciousness, healing, and community through films, interactive experiences, and transformative activities. Whether you’re curious to learn more or an experienced psychonaut, this festival offers a unique opportunity to explore the healing potential of psychedelics and altered states.

BEAT Spring Show

Mon April 21st, 7:00-9:00pm (EDT)

Buskirk-Chumley Theater

• BEAT is a pre professional, community show choir program for children grades 1-12 throughout Bloomington and surrounding areas. Come watch the members of Mini Sync, Syncopation & Amplitude sing and dance their HEARTS out. BEAT invites you to partake in this innovative, engaging entertainment fit for the whole family! Come get to know these incredibly talented young people!

Reopening Reception for Limestone Exhibit

Thurs April 24th, 6:00-8:00pm (EDT)

Monroe County History Center

• Reopening reception for the Limestone History Exhibit will be Thursday, April 24th from 6-8pm at the History Center. Join us in celebrating the reinstallation of the gallery with a focus on limestone carver Enrico “Harry” Liva. Light refreshments will be served.

Minority Report | 5X Philip K. Dick

Thurs April 24th, 7:00-9:30pm (EDT)

IU Cinema

• Based on the novella of the same name by Philip K. Dick, Minority Report transports the detective thriller to a futuristic Washington, D.C. where police utilize the psychic abilities of three PreCogs to arrest and convict criminals before they commit their crime. When the unit undergoes a review by a skeptic from the Department of Justice (Colin Farrell), its leader John (Tom Cruise) is accused of the future murder of a man he hasn’t even met—and clearing his name will uncover truths he can’t yet imagine. [145 min; sci-fi, thriller; English]

Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical

Fri April 25th – Sun May 11th

Waldron Auditorium

• 8-year-old Lily Polkadot just moved to the small, “Squares Only” town of Rockaway. As the first Polkadot in an all Square school, Lily faces an almost impossible task of gaining acceptance from her peers. Lily’s quest seems hopeless until she meets Sky, a shy Square boy whose curiosity for her polkadot skin blooms into an unexpected friendship. Inspired by the events of The Little Rock 9, Polkadotsserves as a colorful history lesson that reminds us that our individual differences are what make us cool. Fun for all ages!

Book Sale & Swap at People’s Co-op Market

Sat April 26th, 9:30am-2:00pm (EDT)

People’s Co-op Market

• Wanna swap out books? Got books for sale? Are you a local author? Let’s talk! We wanna swap and sell books all day long at @peoplesmarketbtown April 26th 9:30am to 2pm! Vendors email us at peoplesmarketmanager@gmail.com. People’s Co-op Market will also have its share table and some hot food vendors available. Come grab new books or gently used ones and share books with your community. We will have local authors at this event signing books and maybe even a book give away! Local authors will be in attendance signing and selling their books – please check our instagram for updates and author profiles.

Headstone Restoration Workshop

Sat April 26th, 10:00am-2:00pm (EDT)

Rose Hill Cemetery

• Join the Monroe County History Center Cemetery Committee and the Prospect Hill Neighborhood Association to learn the basics of headstone cleaning and repair! Each workshop is from 10 am until 2 pm. Drop in or out anytime. Wear outdoor work clothes, bring work gloves, and knee pads (if you’d like). Please bring your own water and snacks. Questions? Email prospect.hill.nieghborhood@gmail.com. Funding provided in part through the City of Bloomington’s Housing and Neighborhood Improvement Program and the Monroe County History Center.

IU Soul Revue Spring Concert

Sat April 26th, 7:30-9:30pm (EDT)

Buskirk-Chumley Theater

• Join us for the legendary IU Soul Revue’s annual spring concert! Get ready to groove as the music takes you on a journey through the best of funk, soul, and R&B. Under the direction of Professor James Strong, the IU Soul Revue is set to deliver a powerhouse performance that will have the audience on their feet. As the African American Arts Institute celebrates its 50th anniversary, this show promises to honor its rich legacy in unforgettable fashion. Don’t miss it!

Sounds From the Black Hole: Lia Kohl & Whitney Johnson / Local Hypertext / Brandon Spaulding April 26 at Orbit Room

Sat April 26th, 8:00-10:30pm (EDT)

Orbit Room

• Experience the shifting, neophonic drones of cellist Lia Kohl with violist Whitney Johnson, cassette & synthesizer improvisation with duo Local Hypertext, and looped lap steel guitar from Brandon Spaulding.
  7PM DOORS /// 8PM SHOW /// ALL-AGES
  $12 IN ADVANCE // $15 AT DOOR
  + FOOD OR DRINK PURCHASE REQUIRED

Fiber Arts & Crafts for Creatives!

Sun April 27th, 1:00-3:00pm (EDT)

Juniper Art Gallery

• Join us on this Spring Sunday to work on your creative craft projects! We have expanded our Fiber Arts Sundays to include any and all portable craft projects. So join this casual gathering and enjoy making new friends over a cup of coffee, tea, lemonade, or a glass of wine while exchanging ideas and tips. This group is free, and meets on the last Sundays monthly (1-3pm). Facilitated by fiber artist Amy Dyken.

Edge of Tomorrow | Beyond First Contact

Tues April 29th, 7:00-9:00pm (EDT)

IU Cinema

• Major William Cage (Tom Cruise) is an officer who has never seen a day of combat when he is unceremoniously dropped into what amounts to a suicide mission. Killed within minutes of attempting to battle a legion of unbeatable alien combatants, Cage now finds himself inexplicably thrown into a time loop—forcing him to live out the same brutal combat over and over, fighting and dying again … and again. But with each battle, Cage becomes able to engage the adversaries with increasing skill, alongside Special Forces warrior Rita “The Angel of Verdun” Vrataski (Emily Blunt). As Cage and Vrataski take the fight to the aliens, each repeated encounter gets them one step closer to defeating the enemy. [113 min; action, adventure, sci-fi; English]