IMA Announces 2015–2016 Performing Artist in Residence
Vibrant artist collective Know No Stranger debuts new works, brings back old favorites, for Museum visitors
INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Museum of Art has announced its first-ever
performing artist in residence, Know No Stranger, a local artist collective comprised of illustrators, writers, puppeteers, comedians and musicians.
The dynamic performing group will use the IMA as their stage and studio, creating innovative art projects to showcase at Museum programs and events throughout 2015 and 2016. The unique artist residency is part of the IMA’s ARTx series, made possible with a gift from The Efroymson Family Fund, a fund of Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF).
“A goal of the ARTx series is to create opportunities for local artists to create and present their work at the IMA,” said Scott Stulen, curator of audience experiences and performance at the IMA. “Through this new Performing Artist in Residence program, artists are able to utilize the resources of our institution with the freedom and support to challenge their artistic practice and grow as professionals. We are thrilled to have Know No Stranger as our first-ever performing artist in residence. Their creative energy and talent is infectious, and we are excited to see what they unleash on the IMA in the coming year.”
The collective kicked off their Museum residency on New Year’s Eve with two festive and interactive
installations. They have also contributed to the Museum’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Day
celebration with an installation that facilitated handwritten, heartfelt conversations between anonymous strangers called The Converstation.
Along with newly created works to share with IMA guests, the collective will also present another
installment of the popular Optical Popsicle in The Toby. The interactive variety show combines puppets, videos, music and dance into a one-of-a-kind sensory experience that celebrates whimsy, creativity and imagination. This year’s Optical Popsicle will feature a three-show run—opening on Thursday, Oct. 15, and a matinee and evening performance on Saturday, Oct. 17.
Other upcoming projects include:
- Video work for the upcoming Timbre concert at the Museum on May 13.
- Pre-film welcome video for The National Bank of Indianapolis Summer Nights Film Series,
featuring tips and insider information for moviegoers. - Secret programming and activities for the secrets-themed Family Day celebration on Nov. 7. We
would tell you more, but it’s a secret. - A puppet-making workshop in Jan. 2016.
- The first KNS musical to debut at the Museum in April 2016.
“We knew that the IMA had an amazing year ahead, with fun, innovative programming and impressive visiting artists—we were already excited,” Know No Stranger said. “But we were flattered and flabbergasted to be asked to join in the adventure. It’s our privilege and treat to work with the IMA in accepting new challenges, concocting fresh ideas and bringing it all to our friends and neighbors in a place that means so much to the city!”
Learn more about Know No Stranger at knownostranger.com.
Download the original PDF Press Release
