Indianapolis’ Far Eastside is known for many things. News headlines express a sense of despair due to violence and lack of economic growth, but thanks to community volunteers like Jarrod Dortch, Far Eastsiders have an opportunity to bring beauty into their neighborhood through the gift of art at Galeria Magnifica.
“The Far Eastside seemed like it had been left behind,” said Dortch, who has served as a Far Eastside ambassador through his work with the 46235 Project. “As part of our effort to bring programming and opportunities to the area, we decided that it would be a good idea to open up a small gallery in Superior Market (a local Hispanic grocery store).”
The gallery developed as an extension of previous community programming organized by Big Car, a cultural organization known for leveraging art and design to positively impact urban living.
With funding from the Glick Foundation, Galeria opened in January. The art featured inside is a collection of youth projects from Big Car’s neighborhood after-school programs and new art created daily by gallery visitors.
Since the opening, Dortch has noticed a great response. “From what we’re seeing, many young people and their families have been using the gallery to create artwork,” he said.
In addition to the obvious visual benefits, it is the hope of Galeria’s organizers that the gallery would foster a sense of togetherness and pride.
“Our overall goal was to bring attention to that side of town, especially in a positive light, and provide an opportunity for families in the area to community build,” said Dortch. “The area has large African-American and Hispanic populations and we wanted to bring those two populations together for their own community benefit.”
Dortch said future plans are to address Far Eastside needs including working with John Marshall High School and increasing pedestrian accessibility in the form of sidewalks and bus shelters.
Dortch said, “We want to bring attention to those lacking areas with hope of addressing those issues.”
What: Galeria Magnifica
Where: Superior Market
3702 N. Mitthoefer Road
When: Gallery is open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
