Tomorrow, we invite you to join us for Gallery Walk from 5–8 PM. Be sure to stop by Pillar Arts By Hand to experience the stunning works of Gail Fairfield and Maureen Pirog, which will remain on display throughout the month. This is just one of many incredible exhibits featured across participating galleries, so take the evening to explore, connect, and celebrate creativity with the community.

Looking ahead, we have a fantastic lineup of events in April, including a special artist talk and workshop by esteemed artist Avon Waters. If you’re interested in the workshop, be sure to register by April 5 to secure your spot. We can’t wait to see you at the Alliance Center and By Hand this month!

Please Welcome Pillar Arts

We’ve heard your concerns, and want to assure our members that corporatizing is far from our intention. Our commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment remains unchanged. In fact, we are more deeply connected with the local arts scene than ever before. Through collaboration with other local institutions, we are actively engaging student artists, beginning entrepreneurs, and well-established talent in our community alongside expanding opportunities for collaboration. Our acquisition of By Hand Gallery has also secured our presence in downtown Bloomington, further strengthening our pillar-like role and providing more direct opportunities for artists.

This new name was chosen to reflect our core mission—to be a steadfast support system for the arts community. Just as pillars uphold structures, we strive to uplift artists, provide essential resources, and foster connections that enhance creative opportunities. We understand concerns about searchability and recognition, and we are actively working to ensure that our digital presence remains strong so that new and existing artists can easily find and engage with us. While change always comes with adjustment, we firmly believe that this rebrand will help us better serve our members and grow into a more dynamic and resourceful organization.

We truly value our members’ input and welcome an open dialogue as we navigate this new chapter together. Pillar Arts remains, at its heart, a member-driven organization dedicated to uplifting the artistic community. We are excited for what lies ahead and appreciate your support as we continue working toward our shared vision. 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

Gallery Walk – Pillar Arts By Hand

Friday, April 4, 5 – 8 PM

This April, we are thrilled to showcase the incredible artworks of Gail Fairfield and Maureen Pirog for Gallery Walk Bloomington.

Gail is a talented artist who specializes in alcohol ink paintings that capture movement and emotion in every piece. Her artistic journey also includes creating beautifully illustrated children’s books, adding a storytelling element to her work. Alongside Gail, Maureen is a skilled artisan who works with various forms of glass. From delicate fused glass pieces to intricate stained glass designs, Maureen’s work highlights the brilliance and versatility of this timeless medium.

We invite you to stop by By Hand Gallery during Gallery Walk to experience their incredible work up close. While you’re out, we encourage you to explore the other participating galleries throughout downtown Bloomington, each offering unique exhibitions that celebrate and enrich our local arts community.

Ceremony for Our Land – Flex Space

Sunday, April 6, 4 – 6 PM

Join us for a unique live arts event at the Flex Space, Pillar Arts Alliance Center, presented with Artists for Climate Awareness and IU First Nations as part of the opening reception Distant Thunder, this month’s art exhibition from April 2nd-30th. Learn more here.

Building on Ceremony for Earth (April 2024), this collaboration—led by Daixuan Ai and Grace McKenzie—explores how mindfulness deepens the experience of live music. Four artists from diverse backgrounds will come together in Bloomington to reflect on place, presence, and connection through poetry, electronic soundscapes, and imagery.

Every note is improvised, making each moment unique. Step into this space, listen, and reflect on the land and the stories it holds.

Distant Thunder by Artists for Climate Awareness – Flex Space

Wednesday, April 2 – Wednesday, April 30

This April, we are excited to feature Distant Thunder presented by Artists for Climate Awareness at the Pillar Arts Alliance Center from The exhibition opens on Wednesday, April 2nd, but we will also host an artist reception on Sunday, April 6th at 3 PM, showcasing 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 event will be followed by Ceremony for Our Land, in partnership with IU First Nations. This celebration will feature four diverse interdisciplinary artists and two dynamic spoken word poetry performances. Come together, celebrate our community and land, and engage with thought-provoking artistic expressions. The exhibition and ceremony offer an opportunity to connect with the mission of Artists for Climate Awareness and learn more about their ongoing efforts in environmental advocacy.

Color Theory for Artists Demystified with Avon Waters – Flex Space

Saturday, April 12, 9 AM – 4 PM

We have teamed up with Artists for Climate Awareness to host an exciting and educational workshop on April 12, 2025, called Color Theory for Artists Demystified. This all-day, hands-on workshop will be led by talented Hoosier artist, Avon Waters, and is designed for artists of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Avon will guide participants through understanding key concepts of color theory, such as mixing shades, tints, and tones, as well as exploring color relativity. He will work in pastel and share techniques that can be applied to any medium, including watercolor, gouache, acrylic, pastel, and oil.

Gain valuable insights into how the right color choices can elevate your artwork, even if you have already mastered other aspects of painting, and explore how art can connect with environmental conservation, particularly through the depiction of nature’s interconnectedness. Participants will walk away with a deeper understanding of how color theory can enhance their artistic practice while contributing to a larger conversation about nature and conservation. Registration is currently open with an entry fee of $140 for members of Artists for Climate and $175 for non-members. Please email Carol Rhodes at art4climate@carolrhodes.net if you are a non-member or have any questions or comments.

Pillar Arts Alliance Center Artist: Karen Sue Holtzclaw

Since 1968, Karen has been honing her craft, starting with oil painting lessons and learning to draw from still lifes and photographs. Her skill has evolved over the years, and she now enjoys experimenting with imaginary and whimsical compositions that often carry an environmental theme. Karen’s work reflects both her technical ability and her deep connection to the natural world, inviting viewers to experience art in a unique and thoughtful way.

Support our Community: Kiwanis All-You-Can-Eat Pancake Breakfast

Aside from a delicious meal, attendees will have the chance to step back in time with an impressive display of antique automobiles including Model A Fords from the 1930s and classic cars from the 1940s to 1960s. Also, 2025 Miss Capitol City and IU student Shaylee Barnes is serving as the event hostess, adding a special touch of hospitality to the morning.

Young guests (ages 10 and under) will receive a free coloring book, box of crayons, and a balloon, making for a fun and family-friendly experience. Tickets are available at just $10 for adults and $5 for children with several payment options. Purchase them in advance at kiwanisbloomington.org or at the event.

The event is made possible through the generous support of Drs. Souheil & Alejandra Haddad, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Surgical Associates, and WGCL Radio. Don’t miss this opportunity to support local youth while enjoying a morning of great food, classic cars, and community spirit!

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Intro to Bellydance

Thurs April 3rd, 7:10-8:00pm (EDT)

Pillar Arts Alliance Center

• This series helps the beginner learn the biomechanics and movement initiation of traditional dance moves. These classes keep students moving and exploring the joy of bellydance, while helping to build confidence and poise.  Private classes are available by appointment on Tuesdays or Saturdays. Spring Session dates: April 3, 10, 17, 24 and May 1. Five classes for $50 prepaid by 3/25/$60 after. Contact Ms. Donna with any questions at (812) 330-l831. Please leave a voicemail if no one is available to take your call.

Continuing Level Bellydance

Thurs April 3rd, 6:00-7:00pm (EDT)

Pillar Arts Alliance Center

• Join us for drills, combinations, improv exercises and more. This class is meant for those with some previous training, whether recent or – years ago. We will help you get your shimmy back! Spring Session dates: March 27, April 3, 10, 17, 24 and May 1. Six classes for $65 prepaid by 3/25 or $70 day of class. Check with the instructor about drop-in rates. Contact Ms. Donna with any questions at (812) 330-l831. Please leave a voicemail if no one is available to take your call.

April Gallery Walk Reception|Brian Ulrich

Fri April 4th, 5:00-8:00pm (EDT)

Pictura Gallery

• The Centurion refers to a fabled and exclusive credit card only available to a select few of the ultra wealthy. It’s also the title of Brian Ulrich’s newest photographic series, which examines the lure of exclusivity in the world of extreme luxury. Ulrich has photographed the American culture of commerce and consumption for over a decade. The Centurion turns to the country’s fascination with wealth and all its promises. Please join us for the opening reception with an Artist Talk on Friday, April 4th at 6pm Pictura Gallery.

Arts Mile

Fri April 4th, 5:00-8:00pm (EDT)

Various Galleries in Bloomington

• Experience downtown Bloomington’s vibrant Arts Mile as select galleries showcase evolving live and virtual exhibits. EVERY. FIRST. FRIDAY. Experience an exciting night of the arts as fourteen distinct galleries stay open late to host special exhibits and serve refreshments from 5-8pm. Stroll the vibrant arts scene along the sensational art mile and experience amazing art by renowned local, regional, and international artists. Discover delightful surprises, inspiration, festivities, and original works of art for purchase. Explore each distinctive gallery in-person or online all year long at your own pace. Click here to learn more

Artist Is In – Guild Artist Demonstration Series

Sat April 5th, 1:00-3:00pm (EDT)

Brown County Art Guild

• The Brown County Art Guild is delighted to host two of our exceptionally talented Guild artist members for a captivating demonstration series this April! Witness the magic as they bring their mediums to life, offering a unique glimpse into their creative process. This event is free and open to the public. People of all ages will be amazed to watch art being created in person. Carol Strock Wasson – Pastel – Saturday, April 5, 2025, 1-3pm. Allen Hutton – Watercolor – Sunday, April 6, 2025, 1-3pm

Ladies First A Cappella Spring Showcase

Sat April 5th, 8:00-10:00pm (EDT)

Buskirk-Chumley Theater

• Established in 1999, Ladies First has been entertaining audiences with its renditions of classic and popular music for 25 years. In 2000, the group advanced to the Midwest Semifinals of the National Championships of Collegiate a Cappella and toured California with the IUAA. Since then, Ladies First has been awarded 3rd in the ICCA District Competition and hosted the 2015 ICCA Quarterfinals at Indiana University where they placed in the top 10. In 2012, the group had the honor of performing with Madonna and Cee Lo Green at Super Bowl XLVI in Indianapolis. Since the debut of their self-titled album in April 2000, the group has released six additional albums. Ladies First also released two singles in 2022, “Parting Glass” and “What a Wonderful World”. Currently, the group is working on their 7th studio album to be released this semester! Although the love for making music brings the group together, it is the lifelong friendships that keeps the legacy of Ladies First strong throughout the years. GOLF!

We Want the Funk! | Additional Films and Guests

Sun April 6th, 1:00-2:00pm (EDT)

IU Cinema

• We Want the Funk! is a syncopated voyage through the history of funk music, spanning from African, soul, and early jazz roots, to its rise into the public consciousness. Featuring James Brown’s dynamism, the extraterrestrial funk of George Clinton’s Parliament Funkadelic, transformed girl group Labelle, and Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat, the story also traces funk’s influences on both new wave and hip-hop. [60 min; documentary; English with open captions]

Writers Guild First Sunday Prose Reading in April

Sun April 6th, 4:00-5:30pm (EDT)

Juniper Art Gallery

• Join the Writers Guild as we feature Voices of the Incarcerated. Nine writers, some from the local jail, others from a state penitentiary, will have their work read by friends and workshop facilitators. In collaboration with Women Writing for a Change. Open mic to follow.

Bloomington Chamber Singers Offers Music of Hope in Uncertain Times

Sun April 6th, 4:00-6:00pm (EDT)

St. Mark’s United Methodist Church

• The Spring 2025 concert from Bloomington Chamber Singers, Music of Hope in Uncertain Times, is a captivating offering, juxtaposing Haydn’s Missa in Angustiis (Mass in Troubled Times), also known as The Lord Nelson Mass, with Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Caroline Shaw’s To the Hands. Though written over 200 years apart, both works vividly bring to life the uncertainty, fear, and loss of timeless challenges—the threat of war in Haydn’s case, and the plight of refugees in Shaw’s—revealing a commonality of the human condition through the centuries. Despite the harrowing opening and recurrent war-like trumpet fanfares Haydn composes throughout work, he always responds with optimism, ending with a confident “Dona nobis pacem.” Shaw sets a text she assembled, which ranges from Latin set by 18th-century composer Dietrich Buxtehude to lines by Emma Lazarus, evoking the 18th century and the immigration of the mid-20th century. Her music ultimately responds to the plight of the refugee with compassion—“we will be your refuge” and “ever will I hold you.” This Spring’s performance of Hope in Uncertain Times is under the direction of guest conductor Dr. Betsy Burleigh, and will be performed at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church Sunday, April 6, 2025. The concert will begin at 4:00. Tickets available online by March 15th at www.chambersingers.info.

Midnight Special | Beyond First Contact

Tues April 8th, 7:00-9:00pm (EDT)

IU Cinema

• With Midnight Special, writer/director Jeff Nichols proves again that he is one of the most compelling storytellers of our time, as a father (Michael Shannon) goes on the run to protect his young son, Alton (Jaeden Lieberher), and uncover the truth behind the boy’s special powers. What starts as a race from religious extremists and local law enforcement quickly escalates to a nationwide manhunt involving the highest levels of the federal government. Co-starring Kirsten Dunst, Joel Edgerton, Sam Shepard, and Adam Driver. [112 min; drama, mystery, sci-fi, thriller; English]

City of Bloomington Trades District One Percent for the Arts Installation Celebration

Thurs April 10th, 6:00-9:00pm (EDT)

Trades District and The Forge

• Join us the City of Bloomington as we celebrate our latest One Percent for the Art installation OT 987! The commissioned artist, Stefan Reiss and light designer Karsten Schuhl, will be in attendance to meet the public and discuss their work. There will be food, drinks, festivities, and networking! Brief remarks will be made by the artists, Mayor Kerry Thomson, City Director for the Arts Holly Warren, BAC Chair Gerard Pannekoek, and BAC Public Art Chair Natalie Almanza. This event is free to attend but RSVP required – do so here please.

“Bridging Creativity and Conservation: Using Art to Raise Environmental Awareness and Action”

Fri April 11th, 6:00-7:30pm (EDT)

Pillar Arts Alliance Center

• Telling the whole story of Indiana’s natural beauty often requires multiple layers and mediums. ArtNature Consortium, founded by Indiana Pastel artist Avon Waters, engages in projects that cross-pollinate art and information, exposing new audiences to art while also revealing the urgency of responsible conservation. Avon Waters will talk about Indiana Glacial Lakes, ArtNature’s latest project, which explores the beautiful, unique ecosystems of the southernmost glacial lakes on Earth and the pressing conservation challenges they face. In his talk, he will share insights on what he, along with partnering artists and scientists, have learned about how artistic interpretations can raise awareness regarding the critical conservation work needed to protect these ecological treasures.

African American Dance Company 50th Anniversary Spring Concert

Fri April 11th, 7:30-9:30pm (EDT)

Buskirk-Chumley Theater

• Come celebrate 50 years of inspiring black dance with the legendary African American Dance Company (AADC). This two-night concert event will showcase 50 years of dance in the African Diaspora, from traditional Africa to American modern. Directed by Baba Stafford C. Berry, Jr., a United States Midwest Culture Bearer, AADC will be joined by Seda Negra/Black Silk on Friday, April 11th and the world-class Dayton Contemporary Dance Company on Saturday, April 12th 2025. You don’t want to miss this!

Connections

Sat April 12th, 4:00-5:30pm (EDT)

John Waldron Arts Center

• Join members of the Windfall Dance Company and School of Dance as we explore connections with others through movement.

Quarryland Men’s Chorus Spring Concert: STRIKE!

Sat April 12th – Sun April 13th (EDT)

First United Church

• Seize the day and strike a pose with QMC! You’ll enjoy a broad selection of music that reflects our community, our history, and our shared struggle for peace, equity, and freedom. Be inspired by the poetry of Maya Angelou, Rainer Maria Rilke, and Pete Seeger; be moved by the music of Verdi, Gershwin, and Copland; and get up and dance to Broadway favorites and Top 40 hits. Tickets at the door are $20 for adults and only $10 for students.

Coffee with Friends with Rebecca McKanna

Sun April 13th, 2:00-3:00pm (EDT)

Monroe County Public Library

• Coffee with Friends. Join us for a conversation with Rebecca McKanna on Sunday, April 13, 2-3 pm, Meeting Room 1B at the Downtown Library. Her debut novel, Don’t Forget the Girl, was awarded the 2024 Indiana Authors Award for Genre Fiction. Presented by the Friends of Monroe County Public Library, mcpl.info/friends

16th Annual Trashion Refashion Runway Show!

Sat April 12th, 7:00-9:00pm (EDT)

Buskirk-Chumley Theater

• This vibrant, all‐ages event is a fashion runway show featuring designers of all ages and their designs made from refashioned garments or unwanted materials including (but not limited to!) paper and plastic bags, pop tabs, bicycle tires, tablecloths, old clothes and even pet food containers! Yaël Ksander and Cydni Robertson will emcee. Bloomington Trashion is proud to involve our community of creative designers, performers, businesses, students and professors year after year. The Trashion Refashion Runway Show is an annual fundraiser for the Center for Sustainable Living (simplycsl.org), a local 501(c)(3) organization of all-volunteer projects dedicated to supporting sustainability and resilience in our community.

Monsters (2010) | Beyond First Contact

Tues April 15th, 7:00-8:30pm (EDT)

IU Cinema

• Six years ago, NASA discovered the possibility of alien life within our solar system. A probe was launched to collect samples, but crashed upon reentry over Central America. Soon after, new life forms began to appear and half of Mexico was quarantined as an “infected zone.” Today, the American and Mexican military still struggle to contain “the creatures.” Our story begins when a U.S. journalist (Scoot McNairy) agrees to escort a shaken American tourist (Whitney Able) through the infected zone to the safety of the U.S. border. [94 min; adventure, sci-fi, romance, thriller; English and Spanish with English subtitles]

Nickel Boys | New Americas Cinema

Wed April 16th, 7:00-9:30pm (EDT)

IU Cinema

• Elwood Curtis’s college dream shatters alongside a two-lane Florida highway. Bearing the brunt of an innocent misstep, he’s sentenced to the netherworld of Nickel Academy, a brutal reformatory sunk deep in the Jim Crow South. He encounters another ward, the seen-it-all Turner. The two Black teens strike up an alliance: Turner dispensing fundamental tips for survival, Elwood clinging to his optimistic worldview. Backdropped by the burgeoning Civil Rights Movement, Elwood and Turner’s existence appear worlds away from Rev. Martin Luther King’s burnished oratory. Despite Nickel’s brutality, Elwood strives to hold onto his humanity, awakening a new vision for Turner. Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Colson Whitehead. [140 min; drama; English]

Alice in Wonderland Jr presented by Stages Bloomington

Thurs April 17th – Sat April 19th

IU Cinema

• When young Alice finds herself in a strange world where everything seems upside down, she must find her way home…and find herself along the way. As she travels through Wonderland, she encounters all of the iconic characters that audiences have come to love: including the ever-tardy White Rabbit, the grinning Cheshire Cat, a cool Caterpillar, the wacky Mad Hatter, and the hot-tempered Queen of Hearts.Alice in Wonderland JR. features Disney favorites such as “The Golden Afternoon,” “The Unbirthday Song,” and “Painting the Roses Red” along with brand-new songs, including music from the 2010 live-action film.Tickets: Adult $20, Youth (17 and under) $10
  Available at www.stagesbloomington.org