Our lease at the Alliance Center is coming to a close, and the last day open in its current location will be Saturday, June 14. This space has been a hub for creativity, collaboration, and connection—and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who helped shape it into such a special place. Though the Alliance Center is relocating, we want to assure you that Pillar Arts By Hand will remain open, maintaining regular hours and events during this whole transition.

Now we’re thrilled to share that we’ve found a new home still within College Mall in the former Victoria’s Secret space near the old Macy’s outlet and just past American Eagle. The photo above was taken during a recent walk-through of the space, which is larger than our current location. We’re excited about the opportunities this could offer for new programming, artist exhibitions, and community engagement.

This is a big moment for us, and we appreciate all who have supported us and reached out during this transition. We also appreciate your patience as we navigate the moving process. Please know we’re committed to keeping you updated and will continue to share news through our newsletter and on Instagram and Facebook.

Select artworks in the current location may be available at discounted prices. Please note that this is not a store-wide sale and varies depending on the artist. Stop in, reminisce, and celebrate the many meaningful moments this space has held. We can’t wait to begin this next chapter together!

Light’s Embrace by Michal Ann Carley – Pillar Arts By Hand

Tuesday, June 3 – Tuesday, July 29

Pillar Arts By Hand is excited to feature Light’s Embrace, a new exhibition by Michal Ann Carley, June through July. Carley is an experienced creative who brings her deep love for nature into each multimedia piece, layering handmade and mineral papers like kozo, rice, and abaca with paint, drawing, and printmaking techniques. After years of working in glass and metal, she’s returned to two-dimensional art, rediscovering her love for color, texture, and image-making.

There was an excellent artist reception during this month’s Gallery Walk on Friday, June 6, and we loved connecting with the artist as well as all of you. This event features 13 galleries across downtown showcasing a wide range of incredible art. We can’t wait to see you again next month!

Creative Residency with Kyle Quass – FlexSpace

Session date: Friday, June 13

This summer, Kyle Quass is hosting a creative residency featuring a series of solo and duet improvisations! His last performance in the Alliance Center will be tomorrow, June 13, but the program will continue at Redbud Books for the rest of the month. Though the sessions will move due to our relocation after this Friday, we’re glad to have been part of its beginnings and excited to see it continue to thrive in a new setting.

The residency was made possible by an Artistic Advancement Grant from the Bloomington Arts Commission, and invites audiences into a space of creativity and musical exploration. Each session will feature Kyle Quass alongside a rotating lineup of guest artists, including Dena El Saffar (June 6–20) and Norbert Herber (June 27) for the month of June. Follow along with him for collaborating artists and venues in the coming months.

All About Bellydance Workshops by Donna Carlton – FlexSpace

Session dates: May 15, 22, 29 and June 5, 12

Join us Thursday evenings at the FlexSpace 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.

An intermediate course is offered from 6:00-7:00 PM and a beginner-friendly “Intro to Bellydance” class is offered from 7:05–7:55 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.

Above: The Burkirk-Chumley Theater hosts several exciting events in our community, including performances during annual the Lotus Fest.