First Friday gives students fun options
First Friday will be returning to Indianapolis April 5. All of the galleries participating in First Friday are open from 6 – 9 pm, and admission to the events is free.
The event put on by the Indianapolis Downtown Artists & Dealers Association. According to IDADA’s website, they strive to develop public awareness of the city’s artist and art dealers, “encourage strong continuing community support for the visual arts,” and “promote the highest professional standards.”
As a means of achieving these three goals, IDADA organized First Friday, a self-guided tour open to the public on the first Friday of each month. IDADA member studios and galleries are open to the public and welcome anyone who wants to see the artwork.
Sherry Stiver is the owner of the Funkyard Coffee Shop and Gallery in Fountain Square. She stated that Funkyard has been participating in First Friday since the business first opened a little over a year ago and previewed what will be happening throughout April.
“We’re having Brinton Farrand,” said Stiver. “He’s a painter who uses either or acrylic – I can’t remember which one right now – as well as an art teacher.”
She went on to review Farrand’s background studying at the Chicago Art Institute and his time studying in Greece and then France before describe Farrand’s motivations.
“He’s kind of a story teller,” Stiver said. “And thinks his art should tell a story.”
Dewclaw South Studios has participated in First Fridays since November 2011. Owner Carla Knopp described her studios as “unintentionally painting-centric” and talked about her upcoming exhibit.
“‘Gloaming’ by Blythe Hager is her collection of paintings that explore a dark side,” Knopp said.
On the blog for Dewclaw South Studio’s website, a quote is provided to explain Hager’s inspiration as stemming from the anxiety Americans face and twisting rooms. A reception will be held on April 5 from 6 pm to 9 pm, with the exhibit staying until April 27.
Funkyard and Dewclaw are two of the dozens of locations that have exhibits throughout April, which the IDADA’s website will have the calendar of next month.
