The Indianapolis Zoo‘s annual “en plein air” (outdoors) event, Naturally Inspired Paint Out, is April 23 and features 15 juried artists creating extraordinary art inspired by the stunning natural surroundings at the Zoo and White River Gardens. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to see through the artists’ eyes as blank canvases and hunks of clay are transformed into one-of-a-kind artworks.
New this year, guests can enjoy free, hands-on guided art activities at 11am and 1pm at the ring-tailed lemur exhibit, led by graduate students from the Herron School of Art + Design at IUPUI. Plus, children ages 8-12 can show their own creativity at the Members’ Only Junior Paint Out. From 9am-noon, these budding artists will create both individual and group artworks. The cost for the Junior Paint Out is $30 per child and reservations are required. All other Paint Out Day activities are free for members and included with regular admission.
After the artworks have dried, they — along with pieces created by some of the Zoo’s artistically inclined animals — will be professionally framed by The Great Frame Up Broad Ripple & Downtown before going on display from June 1-Aug. 24 in the Schaefer Rotunda at the Gardens.
Zoo patrons will have the chance to own their favorite artworks when they go up for bid at the Naturally Inspired Silent Auction and Artists’ Reception from 5:30-7pm Aug. 25 in the Hulman Riverhouse. Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and wine as they visit with the talented Paint Out artists. Tickets for the silent auction and reception are $12.95 for Zoo members and their guests and $18.95 for non-members. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 317-630-2046. Proceeds from the auction support the Zoo’s conservation mission.