Pillar Arts Dispatch | June Exhibitions & Special Announcements June 25, 2026
Posted In: Newsletter Archives, News, Events | Posted by: Pillar Arts
It has been a busy and exciting few weeks for Pillar Arts, from Granfalloon Fest to Godzilla Weekend: Mothra Madness at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater. Thank you to everyone who showed up, volunteered, and celebrated the arts with us. We’re proud to be part of these community gatherings and grateful for the enthusiasm and support we continue to receive!
At the Arts Alliance Center, there’s still time to experience Faces by Illica Pozzattibefore the exhibition closes on July 1. We hope you’ll stop by and spend time with this compelling collection while it remains on view. Looking ahead, we’re excited to welcome Changing Colors by Mary Ann Davis in July. Widely recognized as one of Indiana’s premier plein air painters, Davis is celebrated for her vibrant landscapes and use of color and atmosphere.
At By Hand Gallery, we’re preparing for the opening of Inside, Outside, a joint exhibition featuring the artwork of Henry Leck and Carol Rhodes. Their exhibition promises a thoughtful exploration of the natural world through two distinct artistic perspectives. As we get ready for the holiday weekend, be sure to watch for the Pillar Arts float in Bloomington’s annual Fourth of July Parade—we look forward to celebrating with you downtown!
WHAT’S COMING UP
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
City of Bloomington 4th of July Parade
We can’t wait to see you during the annual 4th of July Parade in downtown Bloomington!
Keep an eye out for the Pillar Arts float along the parade route and give us a wave as we help celebrate the arts and our community.
Courthouse Square
Saturday July 4
Bloomington, IN
HAPPENING NOW
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
OUT & ABOUT
City of Bloomington 4th of July Parade
Bloomington, IN – Courthouse Square
We’re excited to participate in the annual 4th of July Parade! Be sure to watch for our float as we join the community in celebrating Independence Day.
We’re still seeking donations of red, white, blue, gold, or silver decorations to help bring our float to life. If you’d like to contribute, please contact our President, Danielle Bruce ,at danielle.bruce@pillararts.org. We look forward to celebrating with you downtown!
NEW EXHIBIT @ BY HAND GALLERY
Get ready to welcome a new exhibition to By Hand Gallery! Inside, Outside, featuring works by Henry Leck and Carol Rhodes, will be on view from July 3 through August 26. Leck is an educator and accomplished plein air painter who captures the beauty of the world around him through expressive landscapes, while Rhodes brings over 30 years of watercolor experience to dreamy, nature-inspired works. Visit the space on Friday, July 3, from 5–8 PM to celebrate the opening of the exhibition.
By Hand Gallery will also be open on the 4th of July as downtown comes alive for the parade. We hope you’ll celebrate with us, stop in to browse the gallery, and discover a masterpiece created by one of our talented local artists.
Learn More about By Hand Gallery
MEMBER SPOTLIGHTS
ROSE BRENNER
Rose Brenner is a self-taught painter whose creative journey began after retirement when a gift from her daughter sparked a passion that quickly became a daily practice. Inspired by the beauty surrounding her home in Lawrence County, Brenner paints vibrant landscapes, cityscapes, florals, birds, and abstract works. Her work is characterized by bold color, rich texture, and a storytelling approach that blending impressionism, hyper realism, minimalism, and plein air painting.
Brenner often works on several paintings at once and embraces the freshness of alla prima painting, completing many pieces in just one or two sittings. Her distinctive style has earned numerous honors, including Best in Show awards at Paint Bloomington and the Brown County Art Guild Juried Show. Through paintings, prints, and cards, she is committed to making art accessible while sharing her love of color, light, and everyday beauty with others.
ALEXIS PRUITT
Alexis Pruitt of Artistry Imagined, creates handcrafted writing instruments that blend artistry, craftsmanship, and function. Working with wood, custom resin pours, and carefully selected materials, she designs unique pens that showcase rich color, depth, and movement. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted with both aesthetics and ergonomics in mind, resulting in writing instruments that are as beautiful as they are practical.
Driven by a passion for transforming materials into meaningful objects, Pruitt enjoys incorporating unique and sentimental items into her work, giving them new life as usable art. Her work is available at Pillar Arts, the Brown County Craft Gallery in Nashville, and online. She also occasionally shares her expertise through hands-on learning opportunities, inviting others into her workshop to experience the process of crafting their own custom pen.
PILLAR ARTS ARTISTS DIRECTORY
SHOUTOUTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Pillar Arts Feature in Bloom Magazine
A big thank you to Bloom Magazine for recently featuring Pillar Arts! The article highlights our mission and the many ways we’re working to support artists and strengthen the creative community throughout the region.
We invite you to read it in the latest issue of Bloom Magazine on page 44.
Congrats Chaz Mottinger!
Congratulations to Chaz Mottinger on her new role as Associate Director of Engagement at the Lotus Education & Arts Foundation!
As a Bloomington-based arts administrator, photographer, and advocate for community engagement, Chaz has dedicated her career to strengthening connections through the arts. We’re excited to see all she’ll bring to this new position and wish her the very best in the role.
Start in Bloomington
Discover Bloomington beyond the classroom through Start in Bloomington, a free summer program for college students interning or working in the area. Participants can connect with peers, local professionals, and the community through networking events, mentorship, and more.
Registration is free and open through tomorrow, June 26.
Wrapped in Love Call for Artists
Put your creativity to work for a meaningful cause with Middle Way House’s annual tree sweater project. Volunteers will create knitted or crocheted crafted tree coverings due in September.
Individuals, groups, and organizations are welcome to participate. Sponsorship is available, 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.
JACK JOHNSON SURFMUSIC (2026)Friday June 26, 7-9 PM, Buskirk-Chumley Theater BLOOMINGTON – Follow Jack Johnson’s journey from surfer and filmmaker to musician, exploring early adventures and friendships that inspired music that would define his career. Featuring rare archival footage and personal reflections, the film offers a glimpse into the stories behind the songs.
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CELEBRATE 250: STAR SPANGLED KIDS DAYWednesday July 1, 11 AM-8 PM, Downtown 4th Street COLUMBUS – Bring the whole family downtown for a celebration packed with activities designed especially for children. Enjoy face painting, free treats, hands-on educational experiences, family-friendly entertainment, and plenty of festive fun throughout the day. |
THE WILDWOODS AT THE BISHOPThursday July 2, 8-10 PM, The Bishop Bar BLOOMINGTON – Experience rich harmonies and heartfelt songwriting of The Wildwoods, a folk-Americana trio that blends traditional roots music with modern indie influences. Their latest album, Dear Meadowlark, celebrates home, nostalgia, and the connections that sustain us. |
ELLETTSVILLE FIREWORKS CELEBRATIONSaturday July 4, 5 PM-Unspecified, Edgewood Junior-Senior High School ELLETTSVILLE – Celebrate Independence Day with the Ellettsville Fire Department’s annual Fourth of July fireworks display. This tradition brings residents together for an evening of celebration, made possible through the generous support of local businesses and community donations. |
DOWNTOWN BLOCK PARTYMonday July 6, 6-8:30 PM, Downtown 5th Street COLUMBUS – Enjoy an evening of live music, food trucks, family-friendly activities, local vendors, and community fun as athletes and residents come together to celebrate a week of competition and connection. Bring a lawn chair and settle in for a festive summer gathering. |
ZACH RUSHING “REDNECK LOGIC” COMEDY TOURThursday July 9, 7-9 PM, Buskirk-Chumley Theater BLOOMINGTON – Join an evening of unfiltered comedy, storytelling, and Southern charm from Zach Rushing. Drawing inspiration from everyday life, the outdoors, and his Mississippi roots, he delivers a show filled with laughs, honesty, and stories you won’t soon forget. This event is for ages 18 and up. |
TERRA FORA GARDENS FREE FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS TOURThursday July 9 & Saturday July 11, Various times, Terra Flora Gardens MARTINSVILLE – Explore the beauty of Terra Flora Gardens during their annual tour. Wander through stunning private gardens featuring hostas, flowering plants, ponds, waterfalls, and unique works of art in a peaceful natural setting. |
RECENT EVENTS
Photo by Emily Waldo
Godzilla Weekend: Mothra Madness
Bloomington, IN – Buskirk-Chumley Theater
Thank you to everyone who showed up at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater on June 12 and 13 for Godzilla Weekend! We were proud to sponsor this exciting community event, and we had a wonderful time celebrating cinema, creativity, and a shared love of the King of the Monsters with fellow fans.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
