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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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FRESH AIR FRIDAYS: BOARD & BRUSHFriday 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. |
MUSIC UNDER THE STARSSaturday 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. |
JUNETEENTH FAMILY REUNIONSunday 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. |
THE ART OF PASTAMonday 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. |
OPEN MIC NIGHTWednesday 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. |
WOOMBLIES ROCK ORCHESTRASaturday 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. |






