Whether you’re a longtime art lover or a newbie to the world of art, a new experience this June at the Indiana State Museum will be a great place for you to explore your own creative side – and see some incredible artwork by a Hoosier artist.
“It’s About Time: The artwork of Felrath Hines,” will highlight Hines’ life and artwork. Hines was an African American artist who grew up on Indianapolis’ west side. His interest in art began during his youth in segregated Indianapolis, where he attended art classes on Saturdays at the John Herron School of Art and graduated from Crispus Attucks High School in 1931.
Hines continued his art education in Chicago, going on to pursue a career in art in New York City and Washington, D.C. He worked as a professional art conservator for artists like Georgia O’Keeffe, and he became the first African American chief conservator for the Smithsonian Institution’s National Portrait Gallery.
Of course, Hines also created incredible abstract artwork of his own, featuring bold colors, geometric shapes and meticulously clean lines. More than 20 of those original pieces – including the experience’s namesake, “It’s About Time” – will be on display in the exhibit for visitors to see in person, along with personal items of his.
Even if you’re new to art, don’t let the concept of abstract art intimidate you. At the start of the experience, visitors will be invited to pick up headphones and enjoy guidance on different ways to experience this kind of artwork – and remind you that there’s no “right way” to interpret what you see.
Throughout the experience, listen to jazz music to get into Hines’ creative mindset, read poetry written especially for the show and even alter the colors in one of Hines’ pieces to see how changing the colors communicates different ideas.
The experience will be open June 22 through Sept. 29, and it’s included with purchase of general museum admission.
Need even more creative inspiration? Don’t forget to stop by Color of Style, too – also included with museum admission.
