Q&A with Dave Lawrence // President & CEO
Arts Council of Indianapolis // Indianapolis
Please share a little about the Arts Council of Indianapolis and your role in the organization.
The easiest way to think about us is as a chamber of commerce for the arts. Everything we do is designed to support and build the capacity of central Indiana artists and arts organizations. We also own and operate two performance and exhibition spaces, the Indianapolis Artsgarden and Gallery 924.
I serve as the chief arts advocate for the arts and cultural community of Indianapolis, lead the professional staff of the Arts Council, and represent the arts community in local, regional and national matters. Under my leadership, the council has launched new citywide marketing and fundraising initiatives, opened Gallery 924, created and launched a citywide murals initiative, and created three new artist fellowship programs.
Describe the arts scene in Indianapolis?
Indianapolis has a thriving and vibrant arts scene. We are fortunate to have such world-class artists and arts organizations in our community. The arts community is working to engage a broader portion of the Indianapolis community as well as positively impact it through innovative programs like Any Given Child Indy, which is led by the Arts Council and is working to ensure that every student in Indianapolis public schools (K-8) has a robust arts education.
Does the Arts Council of Indianapolis facilitate any group experiences?
Groups are always encouraged to come explore our Gallery 924 to see Indianapolis contemporary artists in group and solo exhibitions. Each summer, in partnership with other organizations, we offer public art bike tours of downtown Indianapolis. It is a great way to learn about the fantastic public art in Indianapolis and get some exercise. The tours usually end up at one of Indy’s craft breweries.
What are the top two or three arts experiences in Indianapolis you would recommend to meeting planners bringing a group to your city?
This is difficult as there are so many great opportunities. A visit to the Indianapolis Museum of Art is an absolute must. The grounds, the collection and the overall experience is extraordinary. Take in a performance at the Indiana Repertory Theatre or the Phoenix Theatre—there is incredible work happening on Indianapolis stages. White River State Park is another must-do, where there are many incredible experiences, including the Canal Walk, which features murals and other works of public art.