Pillar Arts Dispatch | June Exhibitions & Special Announcements June 11, 2026

Posted In: Newsletter Archives, News, Events | Posted by: Pillar Arts


Welcome to another edition of Pillar Arts Dispatch! From fairs and markets to live performances and downtown gatherings, Bloomington is buzzing with energy. This weekend brings the excitement of Godzilla Weekend: Mothra Madness, and we hope to see you downtown at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater for three screenings of classic Godzilla films. Pillar Arts is proud to be a sponsor of this special event, and we invite you to join in the festivities all weekend long.

At the Arts Alliance Center, Faces by Illica Pozzatti remains on view through Wednesday, July 1. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the reception and helped make it such a wonderful celebration of the exhibition. Join us this weekend for a special exhibition featuring artworks created by students who participated in Hundredth Hill’s youth arts camp, with a reception on Saturday, July 13 from 12–2 PM.

At By Hand Gallery, Lessons of Light and Water by Dawn Adams is still on display for just a couple more weeks. Be sure to stop in this month, and get ready for an exciting new exhibition opening in July. We’re also gearing up for the 4th of July Parade downtown—keep an eye out for our float! If you’d like to contribute, we’re still seeking donations for red, white, blue, gold, or silver decorations. Reach out to President Danielle Bruce at danielle.bruce@pillararts.org to arrange a drop-off.

 


 

UPCOMING HAPPENINGS

 

Arts Exhibition by Hundredth Hill Youth Arts Camp Students

This weekend we are featuring a special exhibition of pieces created by students from Hundredth Hill’s youth arts camp.

Join us in celebration for a reception at the Arts Alliance Center on Saturday June 13 at 12-2 PM.

Arts Alliance Center
Saturday June 13-Sunday June 14
Bloomington, IN

Learn More about The Hundredth Hill

 

Changing Colors by Mary Ann Davis

This incredible exhibition highlights Mary Ann Davis’ celebrated plein air paintings, capturing nature with a strong focus on color, light, and atmosphere.

Join us for the reception on Saturday, July 18 from 2–4 PM at the Arts Alliance Center.

Arts Alliance Center
Thursday July 2-Friday July 31
Bloomington, IN

Learn More about Mary Ann Davis

 

Gallery Walk

Spend Gallery Walk with us on Friday, July 3, 5–8 PM and discover the creativity that makes Bloomington’s arts community so special.

We’re excited to host the reception for Inside, Outside, featuring a delightful collection of works by Henry Leck and Carol Rhodes.

By Hand Gallery
Friday July 3
Bloomington, IN

Learn More about Gallery Walk

 

Inside, Outside by Henry Leck & Carol Rhodes

Inside, Outside opens July 3 at the By Hand Gallery, featuring work by Bloomington artists Carol Rhodes and Henry Leck.​

The reception will be held the same evening from 5–8 PM, celebrating a collection inspired by nature, observation, and everyday moments.

By Hand Gallery
Friday July 3-Wednesday August 26
Bloomington, IN

Learn More about Henry Leck

Learn More about Carol Rhodes

 


 

CURRENT HAPPENINGS

 

Lessons of Light and Water by Dawn Adams

This exhibition continues through June 26, offering visitors an opportunity to explore work inspired by healing, reflection, and nature.

An accomplished artist working in both glass and paint, Adams has exhibited extensively in regional, national, and international venues.

Pillar Arts By Hand
Friday May 1-Friday June 16
Bloomington, IN

Learn More about Dawn Adams

 

Faces by Illica Pozzatti

Currently on display through July 1, Faces by Illica Pozzatti showcases portrait work informed by a lifetime immersed in visual art and music.

Her exhibition reflects a deep commitment to creative expression and the human experience.

Pillar Arts Alliance Center
Saturday June 6-Wednesday July 1
Bloomington, IN

Learn More about Illica Pozzatti

 

Intro to Bellydance with Donna Carlton

Join us at the Arts Alliance Center for a month-long creative dance series led by Donna Carlton!​

Whether you’re an experienced dancer or just getting started, this class will help you grow and learn the basics of bellydance.

Pillar Arts Alliance Center
Thursday June 11-Thursday July 23
Bloomington, IN

Learn More about Donna Carlton

 


BY HAND GALLERY

There’s still time to catch Lessons of Light and Water by Dawn Adams before the exhibition closes on June 26. Then, get ready for Inside, Outside, a delightful collection of works by Bloomington artists Henry Leck and Carol Rhodes, on view throughout July and August. Join us for the opening reception during Gallery Walk on Friday, July 3 from 5–8 PM.

Planning to celebrate downtown on the 4th of July? Stop by the By Hand Gallery to find the perfect patriotic piece from one of our talented local artists, and be sure to watch for Pillar Arts in the parade as it passes right by our storefront!

Learn More about By Hand Gallery

 


 

 

MEMBER SPOTLIGHTS

 

HENRY LECK

After an acclaimed international career as a choral director, educator, and founder of the Indianapolis Children’s Choir, Henry Leck discovered a new creative passion in retirement: oil painting. Since moving to Bloomington in 2016, Leck has immersed himself in the study of painting, learning from several artists and expanding his practice through workshops and painting excursions in England, Mexico, and Greece.

Today, Leck is an active member of several regional arts organizations and a familiar presence in the Bloomington arts community. His work, often inspired by the beauty of the natural world, features impressionistic landscapes and still lifes that celebrate color, light, and atmosphere. His paintings can be found in exhibitions throughout southern Indiana, including at the Hoosier Artist Gallery, By Hand Gallery, and Arts Alliance Center.

View Henry Leck’s Profile

 

DARRELL GAMACHE STONE

Darrell Gamache Stone is a photographer, writer, and theatre artist whose work is rooted in observation, storytelling, and human connection. She developed a fascination with photography after receiving her first camera at just five years old. Today, that sense of curiosity and wonder continues to guide her work as she captures meaningful moments exploring the relationship between people, place, nature, and design.

Darrell has maintained a lifelong creative practice as a freelance photographer. She currently serves as Producing Artistic Director of Jewish Theater Bloomington and has exhibited her photography in galleries, art fairs, publications, and community spaces. Her images invite viewers to slow down and discover the stories that exist within everyday moments, reflecting her belief that every photograph is an opportunity to bear witness to the beauty and truth of the human experience.

View Darrell Gamache Stone’s Profile

 


 

 


SHOUTOUTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

Godzilla Weekend: Mothra Madness

It’s Mothra Day in Bloomington on June 12 at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater as part of the 2nd annual Godzilla Weekend. On June 13, catch three classic Godzilla films plus vendors, guest talks, performances, and kaiju fun throughout the day, beginning at noon.

Presented by the East Asian Studies Center, The Media School, Tattoo Kaiju, Pizza X, Upland Brewing, and Pillar Arts.

Learn More About the Show

 

 

Constellation Presents Another Revolution

Another Revolution by Jacqueline Bircher runs June 4-21 and follows two graduate students from opposing scientific fields who are forced to share a lab at Columbia University during the political unrest of 1968.

Blending humor, tension, and heart, the play explores science, conflict, and unexpected human connection during a time of social upheaval.

Learn More About the Show

 

 

City of Bloomington 4th of July Parade

Help us add a little extra sparkle to our 4th of July Parade float! Pillar Arts is still seeking donations of red, white, blue, gold, or silver decorations for the parade on Saturday, July 4.

To arrange a drop-off, contact President Danielle Bruce at danielle.bruce@pillararts.org.

Learn More About the Parade

 

 

 

Wrapped in Love Call for Artists

Get creative and support a great cause through Middle Way House’s annual public art exhibit and fundraiser. Volunteers are invited to create tree sweaters to be displayed throughout the community, with completed works due in September.

Sponsorships are welcome but not required.

Learn More About the Initiative

 

 

 


 

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.

GODZILLA WEEKEND: MOTHRA MADNESS – MOTHRA (1961)

Friday June 12-Saturday June 13, 7-9:30 PM, Buskirk-Chumley Theater

BLOOMINGTON – A screening of the 1961 film Mothra with introductions, a post-film discussion, and related performances and guest appearances. The evening is part of a larger celebration of classic Godzilla-era cinema.

Learn More

 

WHISTLE MAKING WORKSHOP WITH BECKY LAPADULA

Sunday June 14, 1-3 PM, The Pottery House Studio

BLOOMINGTON – Learn how to make your own functional whistle in this step by step workshop with artist Becky LaPadula. Whistles will be bisque fired and ready to glaze in two weeks. The session fee is $35.

Learn More

STUDIO PH.D CLASS: ENTWINED CIRCLES PENDANT MAKE & TAKE

Tuesday June 16, 6-9 PM, The Sterling Butterfly

MARTINSVILLE – Create your own silver and turquoise necklace and earring set in this Make & Take jewelry class with artist Pam Hurst. No experience is necessary, and all materials, tools, and instruction are included. Space is limited; register online.

Learn More

TAKE A TRIP TO THE MUSEUM!

Wednesday June 17, 10:30-11 AM, Bartholomew County Historical Society

COLUMBUS – Enjoy a storytime followed by hands-on exploration, outdoor play, and family-friendly fun. Designed with toddlers and preschoolers in mind, this event welcomes children of all ages and their caregivers to learn, play, and discover local history together.

Learn More

FRESH AIR FRIDAYS: BOARD & BRUSH

Friday June 19, 6-8 PM, Oliver Winery

BLOOMINGTON – Create a custom rustic wood tray in this hands-on workshop led by Nicole DeGain. For $30, participants will receive all materials, instruction, a complimentary glass of wine, and a free set of bamboo charcuterie utensils—no woodworking experience required. Space is limited.

Learn More

MUSIC UNDER THE STARS

Saturday June 20, 6:30-9:30 PM, Deer Run Park

NASHVILLE – Enjoy a free evening of live music featuring regional bands performing jazz, blues, rock, and classic favorites in an outdoor setting. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, grab a bite from local food trucks, and gather with family and friends for a summer night of music and community.

Learn More

JUNETEENTH FAMILY REUNION

Sunday June 21, 1:30-4:30 PM, The Lex

COLUMBUS – Celebrate community, connection, and the spirit of Juneteenth at this family-friendly gathering with food, games, and activities for all ages. Honoring the tradition of family reunions as a symbol of resilience and belonging, the event welcomes everyone to come together in fellowship.

Learn More

THE ART OF PASTA

Monday June 22, 6-8 PM, Traditional Arts Today

FERDINAND – Learn the art of making fresh pasta from scratch in this hands-on class led by Noah and Mady Jacobs. For $60 per person, participants will create homemade pasta and sauce, enjoy their finished meal, and take home recipes to recreate in their own kitchen. Advance registration is required.

Learn More

OPEN MIC NIGHT

Wednesday June 24, 8-10 PM, The Comedy Attic

BLOOMINGTON – A local open mic showcasing Bloomington’s comedy scene, where comedians share up to five minutes of original material. The night highlights new and working performers featuring jokes in a supportive, community-focused setting.

Learn More

WOOMBLIES ROCK ORCHESTRA

Saturday June 27, 7-9 PM, The Astra

JASPER – Experience an energetic evening of live music as The Woomblies Rock Orchestra brings together a 10-piece ensemble featuring strings, horns, and a full rock band. Their dynamic performance celebrates some of the greatest Rock and Motown hits ever written.

Learn More