Four new pieces of artwork have been added to the Indiana Memorial Union Collection, complete with an unveiling ceremony and reception that took place on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 in the IMU Federal Room.
Union Board’s IMU Art Initiative is dedicated to modernizing and diversifying the art collection at the Indiana Memorial Union to better reflect the mosaic of our student body.
“The artwork, as well as the entire art initiative, play a significant role in showcasing the values of our modern student body in one of the only places on campus where people of all backgrounds gather together daily,” said Martha Abraham, co-director of Union Board’s Canvas Creative Arts Committee. “The artwork within the Union should serve as a highly visible and accurate reflection of the values of our student body and campus community, especially because it is seen by past, present, and future students. By continuing to make intentional and lasting contributions to the art collection, my hope is that we can foster a sense of belonging and ensure that the Union is a welcoming and accessible place for all.”
Students affiliated with Union Board, Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center, IU Student Government, and Late Nite selected the pieces at the BUTTER Fine Art Fair in downtown Indianapolis this past fall. One group went during the event’s preview night to scope out artwork and see what they liked, and then a second group went the next morning to finalize selections and purchase the artwork.
“Each of us brought different perspectives and life experiences that shaped how we view the art, and every piece holds a meaning that viewers can interpret in their own unique ways,” said Abraham. “It was especially interesting to hear at the reception how the artists described the significance of their work, often in ways completely different from how we initially perceived them at the fair. It shows that these pieces will continue to resonate with students for years to come, offering new interpretations and connections over time.”
The four new pieces include:
In the Fog by Tashema Davis
Yante by Rosy Petri
Unrequited by Rebekah Galliard
To Dance by Justin A. Carney
“We really liked that the pieces we chose from the fair incorporated mediums that we haven’t seen before in the Union,” said Abraham. “It adds more interactivity and dynamicity to the IMU that not only reflects the evolving artistic landscape, but also brings new energy beyond what has historically been displayed in landscapes and portraits.”
The artwork is located on the main and first floors of the Indiana Memorial Union. In the Fog is located in the Tree Suites Lounge, Yante and To Dance are located by Sugar & Spice, and Unrequited is close to the Georgian Room.
Thanks to generous donations from Union Board alumni, the art initiative has continued updating the art in the IMU. Two members of the Board personally contributed $9,000 to fund the purchase of art that represents the lived experiences of the Latine community at IU. The committee is working to finalize a mural commission this spring.
Additionally, the initiative was awarded a $14,000 grant by the IU Foundation’s Affinity Giving Circles last summer to acquire artwork that reflects the intersectional identities shared by many IU Bloomington students, with a specific focus on Black, LGBTQ+, and female individuals. Those pieces will be purchased and/or commissioned by the end of the spring semester.
If anyone would like to support the initiative and help purchase new art that reflects today’s campus and students, please reach out to Hank Walter, Executive Director of the IMU.
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