Pillar Arts Dispatch | May Exhibitions & Special Announcements April 30, 2026
Posted In: Newsletter Archives, News, Events | Posted by: Pillar Arts
Welcome to our biweekly dispatch from Pillar Arts. We’re so grateful to have you following along and being part of this creative community—your support helps create meaningful opportunities for artists to share their work and connect with others.
This May at Pillar Arts Alliance Center, we’re excited to feature Femina Natura by Grace Gonso, on view May 1–31. Join us for an artist reception on May 9 from 3–5 PM to meet the artist and experience the work up close. We’ll also be hosting an Intuitive Inquiry Journaling Workshop on Saturday, May 16, led by Sara Steffey McQueen. Bring a notebook, and all other supplies will be provided. Registration is $25 and can be completed online or at the door.
At Pillar Arts By Hand, we’ll be showcasing Lessons of Light and Water by Dawn Adams from May 1–June 26. This reflective exhibition explores themes of healing and the natural world through layered oil paintings, offering a calm and immersive experience as we head into the summer season. We hope to see you there for the artist reception during Gallery Walk this Friday, May 1 from 5–8 PM . Come take in experience the work alongside the energy of downtown as we head into the summer season.
CURRENT & UPCOMING HAPPENINGS
Intuitive Inquiry Journaling with Sara Steffey McQueen
Explore creativity and reflection at this creative workshop led by Sara Steffey McQueen at Pillar Arts Alliance Center in College Mall.
On Saturday May 16, 1–3:30 PM bring a notebook, and other supplies are provided. The cost is $25, register at the door or online.
Pillar Arts Alliance Center
Saturday May 16
Bloomington, IN
Learn More about Sara Steffey McQueen
Gallery Walk
Come meet the artist, explore the exhibition, and discover other incredible galleries in our community from 5-8 PM on Friday May 1!
This exhibition will be on display from May 1-June 26
Pillar Arts By Hand
Friday May 1
Bloomington, IN
Lessons of Light and Water by Dawn Adams
This May we are proud to welcome Dawn Adams to Pillar Arts By Hand in Fountain Square Mall to showcase this exhibition of masterful artworks.
Her artwork spans from glass to paintings, with pieces featured in international venues throughout the country.
Pillar Arts By Hand
Friday May 1-Friday June 16
Bloomington, IN
Femina Natura by Grace Gonso
We’re thrilled to invite you to visit the Pillar Arts Alliance Center this May as we feature “Femina Natura” by Grace Gonso.
Meet the artist and connect with other arts advocates at the reception on Saturday May 9 from 3-5 PM.
Pillar Arts Alliance Center
Friday May 1-Sunday May 31
Bloomington, IN
PILLAR ARTS BY HAND
From May 1–June 26, Pillar Arts By Hand presents Lessons of Light and Waterby Dawn Adams, a reflective series inspired by healing and the natural world. Using layered oil techniques and abstracted imagery of skies and water, her work evokes a sense of calm and emotional depth.
As we head into the summer season, stop into the gallery and enjoy the energy of the downtown square while exploring new work from local artists.
This month, Gallery Walk will take place on Friday, May 1 from 5–8 PM at Pillar Arts By Hand. Come meet the artist, explore multiple local galleries, and enjoy light refreshments.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHTS
DON GEYRA
Don Geyra is a fine artist who has spent decades working across theater, film, and television as a proud member of United Scenic Artists Local 829. His career spans everything from stage design to high-end illusion work through his company, Artistic F/X Inc, bringing a deep understanding of visual storytelling to all that he creates. He studied at Colgate University, studying Biology, History, and Studio Fine Art, and later earning his MFA from Indiana University.
As a painter, Don primarily works in oils, often painting from life to capture the richness and immediacy of his subjects. He is also skilled in watercolor, but his passion lies in oil painting. His work focuses on plein-air scenes, still lifes, and portraiture including both people as a lifelong dedication to observing and interpreting the world around him.
SHARON MOORE
Sharon Moore’s passion for painting began in high school and grew under the guidance of her uncle, Malcolm C. Heaton, whose work in wildlife, drawing, and cartooning shaped her artistic perspective. His advice to slow down and closely observe nature, texture, movement, and light continues to influence her work.
Today, Sharon creates paintings inspired by flowers, birds, and wildlife, capturing their quiet beauty with care and intention. She often pairs her imagery with uplifting calligraphy-style messages, aiming to bring encouragement and warmth into everyday spaces.
GET INVOLVED
PILLAR ARTS ALLIANCE CENTER
We’re seeking volunteers to welcome guests and support the Pillar Arts Alliance Center.
No experience needed — just a positive attitude. Reach out to get involved!
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.
SHOUTOUTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Constellation Presents Finn: A New Musical – At the PB&J Cafe
Dive musical adventure paired with a meal at Constellation Stage & Screen, running May 1–17. This story follows a young shark preparing for life in the Shark Guard, who discovers a vibrant world that sets him apart and on a path of self-discovery.
Through friendship, courage, and music, he learns what it means to embrace who he truly is. A sensory-friendly performance will be featured on Sunday, May 17 at 4 PM.
Sam Grisman Project
The Sam Grisman Project is a dynamic, all-acoustic ensemble led by bassist Sam Grisman, blending bluegrass, folk, and Americana into vibrant, improvisational performances inspired by American roots music and the legacy of Jerry Garcia.
Catch them at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater on Sunday, May 3 at 7 PM (doors at 6:30 PM).
Constellation Presents Mamma Mia! (2008)
Calling all dancing queens and super troupers! Experience the magic of ABBA’s greatest hits in this movie musical about a bride-to-be searching for her father, set to iconic pop classics.
Playing at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, this screening includes a pre-show costume contest, photo booth, and themed cocktails—so come dressed in your best disco or island-inspired look and join the fun.
Constellation Presents Mamma Mia! (2008)
From July 24–August 2, Eclipse Productions presents Doubt: A Parableby John Patrick Shanley at the John Waldron Firebay.
Set in a 1964 Bronx Catholic school, the play follows a strict principal who suspects a priest of misconduct—sparking a tense exploration of truth, doubt, and moral certainty.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Submit your event to our community calendar to share it with a wider creative audience and help keep our local arts scene connected and thriving.
THE SPRING BLOSSOM ART SHOWSaturday May 2, 12-8 PM, Second Story Studio NASHVILLE – Keep celebrating after the Spring Blossom Parade with an afternoon-into-evening showcase of new work from your favorite artists. Explore a refreshed gallery and studio space, browse an updated art menu, and enjoy music and refreshments as you discover something to take home.
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A FAIR FOR THE ARTSSaturday May 9, 8 AM-12:30 PM, Fernandez Plaza BLOOMINGTON – Browse handmade art and crafts at this outdoor market featuring demonstrations, and displays by local and regional artists. Held alongside the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market, it’s the perfect way to spend a morning exploring art in the heart of downtown. |
TREAT YOUR MOTHER, MOTHER’S DAY EVENTSunday May 10, 10 AM-12:30 PM, The Pottery House Studio BLOOMINGTON – A special pottery painting experience honoring mothers and mother figures offers a relaxed, creative way to spend time together. Reserve a spot to participate for $10, enjoy discounted pottery for moms, and enjoy pastries and refreshments. |
FAMILY NIGHT-OUTWednesday May 13, 4:30-8 PM, Gather :handmade shoppe & co: BLOOMINGTON – Join for a monthly downtown block party that brings the community together for local food, live music, art vendors, lawn games, and hands-on activities. On the second Wednesday of each month, Kirkwood Avenue transforms into a welcoming open-air gathering space designed for easy, family-friendly connection. |
TANGLED UP IN DYLANFriday May 15, 7-9 PM, YES Cinema COLUMBUS – This film shares powerful stories about access to safe swimming and the importance of water literacy for all. It will be followed by a Q&A with director Jerald Harkness, Olympic medalist Lilly King, and other special guests. |
23RD ANNUAL CHALK WALKSaturday May 16, 8 AM- 2 PM, Thyen-Clark Cultural Center JASPER – Spend a day immersed in creativity at this family-friendly event filled with hands-on art activities for all ages. Registration is $12, and includes access to all activities, plus a drawstring bag with chalk and goodies from local businesses. |
RECENT EVENTS
Photo by Charles Pearce
SOLACE BY MDWST FABLE
Over the last few weekends, we opened our space at Pillar Arts Alliance Center for MDWST Fable to host Solace. This multi-sensory healing experience brought together art of several mediums to create a truly impactful and meaningful event