INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Art & Soul program has returned for its 29th year honoring Black artists shaping Indianapolis’ creative scene, and a visual artist in the fellowship recently opened a new show.

Melissa Rowe, director of marketing and communications at Indy Arts Council, said, “Some of the stories that haven’t been told are being told through these artists. They get opportunities through this grant that they may not have been able to access otherwise.”

Each year, four artists are selected to help celebrate Black art and music in the community. “They’re selected based on their talents and different areas, so this year we have two musicians/performing artists, a visual artist, and actually, an unconventional wearable artist.”

Each featured artist gets a $4,000 stipend; paid performing, exhibiting and programming opportunities; media training; and a showcase at Gallery 924.

This year’s visual artist, Kierra Ready, recently debuted her work as From the Inside Out – An Art & Soul Exhibition at Gallery 924. Rowe said, “It’s sort of about joy and how joy starts from within and then radiates out, so that’s what she’s trying to communicate with this work.”

All of Ready’s work at the gallery is available for purchase.

Applications for the next fellowship open up in the summer.

Rowe hopes the artists from this year’s fellowship continue to showcase their work long after their cycle ends. “I really hope that they’re able to tell their stories and communicate to their audiences, and continue to have opportunities to showcase their art here locally, and maybe even beyond.”

The From the Inside Out exhibition will be open through May 22 at Gallery 924.

Previous coverage

CARMEL, Ind. (WISH) — The IU Health Momentum Indy Divas cycling group has kicked off its 2025 season, marking the third year of the program that brings together over 240 women from the Indianapolis area.

The Divas cycling group, part of the IU Health Momentum Indy initiative, meets weekly on Thursdays to promote cycling camaraderie and mentorship among women of all ages and skill levels. The program focuses on empowerment and includes bike safety education, cycling etiquette, and maintenance skills.

“We’re thrilled with the Divas program’s explosive growth. In our first year, over a hundred women joined, and we’ve already doubled that number,” said Jennifer Cvar, a diva and the executive director of IU Health Momentum Indy, in a news release.

The Divas meet at 6:15 p.m. Thursday from April through September at the Indiana Members Credit Union, 12725 Old Meridian St., Carmel. They embark on rides ranging from 14 to 30 miles, with routes through Hamilton and Boone counties. The ride groups are named after famous divas such as Lady Gaga and Madonna.

Membership costs $150, but no woman is turned away due to financial hardship, thanks to a scholarship program. Interested divas can contact Gigi Beck at gigibeckdivas@gmail.com for more information.

The season will culminate with the Divas participating in the Honor Major Taylor Fondo during the IU Health Momentum Indy event from July 11-13. Members receive complimentary entry into the Fondo ride. The IU Health Momentum Indy is a weekend festival in downtown Indianapolis, featuring bike races, rides, food, music, and family activities. It attracts thousands of attendees each year.

New for this year, travel grants will be provided to support riders in the men’s and women’s Pro events, with amounts ranging from $200 to $1,200 per team.