Pillar Arts Dispatch | Bloomington Art Events & Gallery Shows September 18, 2025
Posted In: Newsletter Archives, News, Events | Posted by: Pillar Arts
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Grand Opening of the Pillar Arts Alliance Center on Saturday, September 6. We were honored to welcome over 200 members of our community for an evening of art, music, and celebration. Your presence made the occasion unforgettable, and we look forward to serving the arts and continuing our mission of fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection.
As the end of the year approaches, now is the perfect time to renew your membership with Pillar Arts. Membership doesn’t just help sustain our work, but also comes with benefits including professional growth, the opportunity to display your art in our galleries, and more.
We’re also excited to share that Suzanne Halvorson has joined the Pillar Arts board. As the former owner of By Hand Gallery, a practicing textile weaving artist, and an adjunct professor at Indiana University, Suzanne brings invaluable experience and perspective to our organization. We’re grateful to have her on the board and look forward to the insight and leadership she will bring to Pillar Arts.
CURRENT HAPPENINGS
“Echoes of Life & Love” by Ruth Lau and John Lee
Come visit us at the Pillar Arts Alliance Center to view Echoes of Life & Love by the painters and photographers, Ruth Lau and John Lee.
This talented couple captures stunning landscapes and moments reflecting the human experience.
Pillar Arts By Hand
September 1-30
Bloomington, IN
“Commonly Inspired” by Andy Roberts
Join us at Pillar Arts By Hand to experience Commonly Inspired, a captivating exhibition by local artist Andy Roberts.
His pieces feature vibrant watercolors and thoughtful composition. Come check them out before the end of the month!
Pillar Arts By Hand
September 3-30
Bloomington, IN
“Raising Funds for Environmental Action ” by Art for Earth
We are thrilled to welcome the skilled members of Art for Earth to Pillar Arts Alliance Center in October to display Raising Funds for Environmental Action.
Celebrate the opening on Sunday, October 5 from 3-5 PM with a reception in the Arts Alliance Center.
Pillar Arts Alliance Center
October 1-26
Bloomington, IN
Learn More about Art for Earth
“Expressing My German Roots” by Jake Kujava
This October we couldn’t be more excited to invite Jake Kujava to Pillar Arts By Hand to display Expressing my German Roots.
We invite you to meet the artist and experience his work up close during Gallery Walk on Friday, October 3 from 5-7 PM.
Pillar Arts By Hand
September 3-30
Bloomington, IN
Middle-Eastern Dance Classes with Donna Carlton
This lively series began last week aand runs until Thanksgiving break.
Each session includes five classes that are $50 with advance registration or $60 at the door. Two sessions are offered, so you can join one or both. For details or to sign up, call (812)330-1831.
Pillar Arts Alliance Center
September 11-November 6, 7-8 PM
Bloomington, IN
Learn More about Donna Carlton
GET INVOLVED
PILLAR ARTS ALLIANCE CENTER
We’re seeking volunteers to greet guests, share about the artwork, and support daily operations at Pillar Arts Alliance Center. No experience needed, just a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
If you’re interested, please reach out and a member of our team will be in touch.
PILLAR ARTS MARKETING TEAM
Do you have experience in Canva, design, or social media? Pillar Arts is looking for skilled marketing volunteers to support our outreach efforts.
If that sounds like you, please get in touch and our team will follow up.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHTS
ARTS ALLIANCE CENTER SPOTLIGHT ARTIST
KYLE QUASS
Kyle Quass is a Bloomington-based composer, trumpet player, and sound artist whose work bridges jazz, improvisation, and experimental music. He has performed and recorded with renowned artists including David Baker, Joe Henderson, Greg Osby, and Tyshawn Sorey, and has released numerous recordings under his own name, including Bloom (2024) and The Harmony of Things As They Are (2023).
In addition to his performing and recording work, Kyle is active in Bloomington’s arts community. He is a former board member of the Writers Guild at Bloomington and has received support from the Bloomington Arts Commission, contributing to live programming, collaborations, and innovative musical projects that continue to shape the local creative landscape including the Creative Residency featured at Pillar Arts Alliance Center this summer.
BY HAND SPOTLIGHT ARTIST
HICKORY TREE STUDIO
Hickory Tree Studio has been a creative home in the hills of southern Indiana since 1978, when potter Walt Westhues moved his practice there. Over the years, the studio has expanded to include a blacksmith shop and a weaving and painting studio run by his wife, Betty. Together, they’ve created a vibrant space where tradition and artistry come together, offering something new for visitors to discover.
Their offerings range from functional stoneware and bird feeders to artistic vases, handwoven rag rugs, and forged iron hooks. Walt’s pottery and ironwork, along with Betty’s weaving, can be found at galleries like Pillar Arts By Hand Craft Gallery in Bloomington and Brown County Craft Gallery in Nashville, as well as at local art fairs. Visitors are welcome to stop by the studio to see the work and take home a piece of handmade Indiana art.
SHOUTOUTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Welcome Suzanne Halvorson
On Tuesday, September 16, we proudly welcomed a new board member, Suzanne Halvorson. Suzanne is the former owner of By Hand Gallery, a practicing textile weaving artist, and an adjunct professor at Indiana University, bringing a depth of experience in both the arts and arts leadership.
We are delighted to have Suzanne join our board and look forward to the insight, creativity, and dedication she will contribute to advancing the mission of Pillar Arts.
Learn More about Suzanne Halvorson.
50 Years of Rocky Horror
Constellation Stage & Screen is bringing The Rocky Horror Picture Show back to the Buskirk-Chumley Theater for its 50th anniversary!
Grab your props, join the callbacks, and celebrate this cult favorite with screenings full of interactive fun. And don’t forget to come early for the pre-show costume contest and fabulous prizes.
Learn More about the Screening
COMMUNITY EVENTS
|
BLOOMINGTON COMMUNITY BAND PERFORMACESun Sept 21, 6-8 PM, Switchyard Park BLOOMINGTON – The Bloomington Community Band brings together over 60 local musicians for a lively performance, featuring concert classics, show tunes, and the premiere of “The B-town Swing” celebrating Bloomington’s jazz tradition. |
AUTHOR EVENT: CINDY MILLERTues Sept 23, 6-7 PM, Morganstern Books BLOOMINGTON – Join IU alum and author Cindy Miller for an evening exploring her book The Alterations Lady, sharing the story of an Afghan refugee and the experiences that shape identity, resilience, and connection. |
BLOOMINGTON MUSIC COLLECTIVE NETWORKING RECEPTIONWed Sept 24, 5:30-7:30 PM, IU Innovates on Kirkwood BLOOMINGTON – Join the Bloomington Music Collective Networking Reception for an evening of food, conversation, and connection with local musicians, producers, and community members shaping our music scene. RSVP to save your spot! |
LOTUS FESTThurs Sept 25-Sun Sept 28, Various venues BLOOMINGTON – Join the 2025 Lotus Festival in downtown Bloomington, next weekend! Celebrate global music, art, and culture with performances, workshops, and family-friendly activities from artists representing over 20 cultures. |
KIWANIS INDIANA BALLOON FESTFri Sept 26-Sat Sept 27, Lawrence County Fairgrounds BEDFORD – Enjoy hot air balloons, fireworks, live entertainment, food, and family fun at the Lawrence County Fairgrounds in Bedford. Presale tickets available until Sept. 25; day passes $30 at the gate. All proceeds benefit the Kiwanis Club of South Central Indiana. |
FALL FLING 2025Sat Sept 27, 9 AM-1 PM, Shreve Hall at Ivy Tech Community College BLOOMINGTON – Join for a morning of practical gardening insights with expert-led sessions on landscape design, pollinators, and gardening for birds. This hands-on program is inspiring for gardeners of all levels. |
FIBER ARTS AND CRAFTS FOR CREATIVESSun Sept 28, 2-4 PM, Juniper Art Gallery BLOOMINGTON – Join artist Amy Dyken for a relaxed, all-ages crafting afternoon! Bring any portable project and enjoy making, sharing, and connecting with fellow creatives. Free and open to everyone. |
“A LITTLE EXTRA LOVE” BY RODNEY MARGISONFri Oct 3- Fri Oct 31, Fountain Square Mall BLOOMINGTON – Rodney Margison presents his first solo exhibition, featuring heartfelt portraits of 45 individuals with Down syndrome and something they cherish. Celebrating spirit, individuality, and joy, the show highlights creativity and connection throughout Down Syndrome Awareness Month. |
PAINT BLOOMINGTONSat Oct 4, 10 AM-4 PM, Woodlawn Pavilion at Bryan Park BLOOMINGTON – Join us for a full day of creative exploration for all ages. Enjoy free classes and supplies in plein air painting, printmaking, watercolors, acrylics, pastels, and more, with opportunities for both beginners and experienced artists to participate in a friendly painting competition. |
FIBER ARTS AND CRAFTS FOR CREATIVESSun Sept 28, 2-4 PM, Juniper Art Gallery BLOOMINGTON – Join artist Amy Dyken for a relaxed, all-ages crafting afternoon! Bring any portable project and enjoy making, sharing, and connecting with fellow creatives. Free and open to everyone. |
MANDALAS & PLANT INKS WORKSHOPSat Oct 11, 10 AM-3 PM, Ivy Tech Community College BLOOMINGTON – Create your own personal mandala in this hands-on workshop with Sara Steffey McQueen, exploring symbolism, reflection, and creative expression through guided exercises and a variety of materials. Sponsored by Artists for Climate Awareness. |
RECENT EVENTS
CD RELEASE & SOLOW SHOW WITH GABRIEL JENKS
BLOOMINGTON – Pillar Arts Alliance Center
Last Friday, September 12, we invited Gabriel Jenks to the Pillar Arts Alliance Center for a solo show featuring tunes and melodies from his debut album “Lonesome.” You may have heard a sneak peek of these songs at our Grand Opening celebration the week prior, and we hope you enjoyed them just as much as we did!
PILLAR ARTS ALLIANCE CENTER GRAND OPENING
BLOOMINGTON – Pillar Arts Alliance Center
On Saturday, September 6, we had the absolute honor of welcoming over 200 community members to our new and improved Pillar Arts Alliance Center to celebrate the Grand Opening of the gallery and performance space. Thank you so much for attending, supporting, and connecting with us.
