Indiana Black Expo promises attendees an immersive arts and culture treat with “A Space for Us.”
Presented by F.A.M.E. Foundation Inc. in partnership with Indiana Black Expo, “A Space for Us” promises a “visionary fashion and arts production” for guests of the organization’s 2025 Summer Celebration. The showcase — which begins at 5:30 p.m. on July 19 in the 500 Ballroom of the Indiana Convention Center — aims to “spotlight Indianapolis’ rising talent and amplify the power of creative expression as a force for good,’ according to a press release.
“With youth violence and crime rates on the rise in our city, A Space for Us is more than an event. It is a movement,” Monty Matuka, founder and creative director of MELI and president of F.A.M.E. Foundation Inc., said in a statement. “We believe in offering young people a safe place to dream, create and thrive. Parents, educators and community leaders are strongly encouraged to bring youth who are interested in fashion, modeling, performing arts, design, media and more.”
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“A Space for Us” is designed to be more than just a fashion show, but an immersive celebration of the intersection of fashion, dance, visual arts, storytelling and community, according to a press release. The event is intentionally curated to provide a creative safe space for youth and families to engage in the arts and talent within the city and nationwide.
“A Space for Us” will include:
- A runway showcase featuring MELI’s latest high-end athleisure collection.
- Original choreography performed by top local dancers.
- Live performances from musicians, vocalists and spoken word artists.
- Visual art and photography exhibitions showcasing emerging and established creators.
“A Space for Us” is expected to bring together a diverse range of families, creatives, cultural influencers, students, educators, community changemakers, athletes, business professionals and corporate executives, according to a press release.
“A Space for Us” begins at 5:30 p.m. on July 19 in the 500 Ballroom of the Indiana Convention Center, 100 S. Capital Ave. Tickets start at $28.49 and can be purchased at posh.vip/e/a-space-for-us.
For more information about Indiana Black Expo’s 2025 Summer Celebration and events, visit summercelebration.net.
Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx.
Chloe McGowan is the Arts & Culture Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper. Originally from Columbus, OH, Chloe has a bachelor's in journalism from The Ohio State University. She is a former IndyStar Pulliam Fellow, and has previously worked for Indy Maven, The Lantern, and CityScene Media Group. In her free time, Chloe enjoys live theatre, reading, baking and keeping her plants alive.
