Bloomington, IN – The Waldron Arts Center in Bloomington has unveiled its lineup of exhibitions for November and December. The center, known for its commitment to promoting and showcasing diverse artistic talent, will feature three exhibitions in its galleries.
Deforestation of the Amazon Rainforest and the Resilience of the Indigenous People of Brazil:
The first exhibition, presented by Terre Haute-based artist Alexandra McNichols-Torroledo, delves into the critical issue of deforestation in the Amazon Rainforest. McNichols-Torroledo’s collection comprises a series of silver gelatin photographs printed from large-scale, 4×5 inch negatives. These photos provide a glimpse into the lives of the Mura people of Itaparana as they resist deforestation and protect their home in the Brazilian Amazon. The artist spent two years working with the Mura community from 2019 to 2021, engaging them with her artistic practice. Alongside the photographs, visitors will have the opportunity to experience a video installation and view photographs captured by members of the Mura community using drones to document the destruction caused by ongoing mega-projects in the Amazon.
Away From Here:
The Educational Gallery at the Waldron Arts Center will host an exhibition by the Indiana University Prison Arts Initiative (IUPAI) titled “Away From Here.” This program is the first Indiana University-sponsored prison education initiative and consists of current and former IU graduate students. It aims to provide 16-week, college-level classes in correctional facilities. The exhibition, a culmination of a visual arts-focused class, features 23 images, including sketchbook pages and writings by inmates at Putnamville Correctional Facility in Putnam, Indiana. While the work is personal, IUPAI adheres to regulations that ensure no faces or full names of inmates are displayed, offering viewers a chance to appreciate each artist’s individuality while preserving their anonymity.
Whimsy & Wonder:
“Whimsy & Wonder” is an exhibit by Bloomington-based illustrator Bobby Ayala Perez, marking his debut visual arts show at the Waldron Arts Center. Perez, known for his role in Constellation’s “Holmes and Watson,” presents a series of colorful and playful paintings. The exhibition exudes joyful surrealism, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a world of delight.
The exhibitions will open with a reception on Friday, November 3, and will remain on display until Sunday, December 17. A second reception will take place during the First Friday event on December 1.
The Waldron Arts Center is dedicated to connecting audiences with world-class theater and film, and these exhibitions are a testament to its commitment to promoting and celebrating diverse artistic voices.
For more information about the artists and their work, please visit:
- Alexandra McNichols-Torroledo: Artist’s Page
- Indiana University Prison Arts Initiative: IUPAI
- Bobby Ayala Perez: Ayala Illustration
Gallery Hours for November and December, 2023:
- Wednesday and Thursday: 12-5
- Friday: 12-8
- Saturday and Sunday: By appointment only
- Galleries are also open during all Constellation performances
To schedule a visit on the weekend, please email [email protected] by the Friday prior to the requested date.
The Waldron Arts Center, managed by Constellation Stage and Screen, is a vital cultural hub in downtown Bloomington, offering opportunities for artists to exhibit and engage with the community. For more details, visit www.waldronartscenter.org.
Contact: Waldron Arts Center 122 S Walnut St Bloomington, IN 47404
Gallery Manager: Sarah Nichols
Phone: (812) 336-9300 (Box Office) (812) 336-7110 (Admin)
Email: [email protected]
