Indiana Black Expo reveals cultural arts pavilion lineup – Indianapolis News | Indiana Weather | Indiana Traffic

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Indiana Black Expo (IBE) announced the line up for the Cultural Arts Pavilion at this year’s Summer Celebration.

Organizers describe the pavilion as a “one-of-a-kind collaboration” between the IBE and Indianapolis’ iconic museums and institutions.

In a press release on Monday, IBE leaders say the Cultural Arts Pavilion will be a space to celebrate and elevate Black arts. It will feature work by both established and up-and-coming artists.

CEO Alice Watson says the Cultural Arts Pavilion serves as a reminder that creativity has an important role in the community.

“Nowhere else in the city — or the state — will you find this level of collective artistic power and cultural storytelling under one roof,” Watson said. “For nearly four decades, this groundbreaking space has honored the rich legacy and ongoing impact of Black artists through fine art, performance, history, fashion, music, and genealogy.”

Since Summer Celebration lines up with the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game, the Cultural Arts Pavilion will feature a basketball-themed group exhibit.

More than 30 regional artists contributed to the display titled “Court Vision: The Art of Resilience and Excellence.” It was curated by the group “Arthentic Arts” and will explore Black excellence in sports, art and empowerment.

This year’s gallery will also be home to the Art Speaks Café with live performances, panels and more.

The Cultural Arts Pavilion will be in rooms 143 and 144 of the Indiana Convention Center from July 18-20. Admission to the pavilion is free.

Gallery exhibitions

● Arts Council of Indianapolis – “From the Inside Out” by Kierra Ready, exploring joy as a spiritual and communal force.
● Newfields – “A Celebration of Strength, Creativity, and Beauty” featuring a preview of Alma Thomas’s Smithsonian exhibition.
● Indianapolis Public Library – “Meet the Artists,” curated by Anthony Radford, showcasing emerging and established Black artists.
● Harrison Center – “The Greatriarchs of Martindale Brightwood.”
● Indiana State Museum – “REPRESENT: Indiana’s Black Artists.”
● Indiana Historical Society – “Pro Basketball in Indiana.”
● Eiteljorg Museum – Featuring the multidimensional works of Crystal Kaakeeyáa Rose Demientieff Worl, an Alaskan Indigenous artist.
● Indiana African American Genealogy Group – “Research Your Roots,” a hands-on genealogy exploration.

Featured visual artists include:

● Tanía Michelle Wineglass – “Lost and Found,” an interactive journey through healing and transformation.
● Faith Blackwell – “We Are The Culture: Fashion Meets Basketball,” a fusion of sports and self-expression.
● India Cruse-Griffin – “The Power in Family,” celebrating legacy through collage and acrylics.
● Cierra Johnson – “Circle City Made,” community-based visual storytelling.
● Amira Alquraishy – “The Dreamer Has No Finish Line,” a hopeful look at ambition and identity.