16 public art projects coming to Indy

Sixteen artists and nonprofits have been awarded more than $140,000 from the Indy Arts Council to create accessible arts and culture experiences throughout the city.

Why it matters: The projects taking place between now and next April are being funded in response to studies that say more than half of Central Indiana residents engage in local art via public spaces.

Zoom in: Officials say a total of $142,775 was awarded, but the more than $687,649 requested by 81 eligible applicants demonstrates the need for local arts support.

• Grant awards range from $2,000 to $10,000.

What they're saying: "This program continues to demonstrate the strong demand for accessible arts experiences across Indianapolis," Indy Arts Council president and CEO Judith Thomas said in a statement released Tuesday.

Here are the 16 recipients and their projects:

Arts With A Purpose: $10,000

• An arts corridor with free workshops in visual art, music and movement.

Cheryl A. Lorance: $9,910

• Youth stone carving workshops at Irving Circle Park.

Chreece: $10,000

• Free music and arts programming at Fountain Square Plaza.

Emily Mellentine: $10,000

• Monthly creative workshops for young adults.

Freewheelin' Community Bikes: $8,760

• Mobile art studio with drop-in workshops.

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra: $5,245

• Free symphonic concerts in public parks.

John Boner Neighborhood Centers: $10,000

• A family-friendly arts pop-up and concert series.

Kids Dance Outreach: $8,440

• Public arts event activating Al E. Polin Park.

Lily Groot: $7,660

• Mobile printmaking demonstrations via cargo bike.

Pam Blevins Hinkle: $10,000

• Community singing and documentary songwriting project.

Quinn Tailor: $6,260

• Participatory textile experiences and community quilt.

Rome Herbert: $10,000

• The "Bless the Block" hip hop concert series in Haughville.

Sapphire Theatre: $7,500

• Fall Creek CHALKfest community art event.

Sofia Casanova: $10,000

• Workshops for creatives and artist families.

Urban Musical Theatre: $9,000

• Performances highlighting Black Broadway history with talkbacks.

VV UNDERGROUND, INC: $10,000

• Two-day festival celebrating Visual Vernacular and Deaf culture.