Indiana’s Artsroad 46 Alive with Upcoming Art Festivals

Nestled in the rolling hills of Southern Indiana is Highway 46. Connecting three distinct communities, Bloomington, Nashville, and Columbus, this winding two-lane highway is home to an abundance of arts. Collectively, the 40-mile stretch of scenic highway flowing between these three designated cultural districts is known as ArtsRoad 46. A haven for stunning arts and architecture, vibrant culture, flavorful cuisine, and breathtaking vistas, ArtsRoad 46 offers a wide variety of opportunities to experience art in all its forms and fashions.

In addition to permanent fixtures, galleries, and ongoing arts activities, ArtsRoad 46 hosts several festivals and special events throughout the year. With many fun and unique art festivals slated Labor Day through November in each of the three cities, ArtsRoad 46 is alive and buzzing with excitement.

Known for its music and art programs at Indiana University, along with its many galleries, theatre productions, one-of-a-kind venues, independent restaurants, wineries, breweries and more, Bloomington, Indiana is a global destination for arts and entertainment.

During Labor Day weekend (September 5-6), Bloomington will host its famous 4th Street Festival of the Arts & Crafts. This long-running art event, which has been occurring annually for nearly 40 years, is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Taking over a downtown section of 4th Street, over 100 art vendors will fill the area, representing a wide range of mediums and styles.

Later in the month, the Lotus World Music & Arts Festival will take place in Bloomington as well, attracting musicians and artists from around the globe. On September 24-27, this three-day music and art festival will spread across downtown Bloomington, creating an electric atmosphere complete with street tents, indoor venues, and live performances.

For more information on Bloomington’s upcoming art festivals, please visit www.visitbloomington.com, or call 812-334-8900.

The next ArtsRoad destination, Nashville, Indiana, is only a short 20 mile drive East along scenic Highway 46. Rich in arts heritage, Brown County has been known for generations as the “Art Colony of the Midwest.” Home to hundreds of eclectic boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops, Nashville continues to honor its handmade history every day. Watch artists create in their studios and galleries, all while relishing in the natural beauty of the area’s unforgettable vistas and overlooks

Art is more than a hobby in Brown County, it is a way of life. Experience art firsthand during the Brown County Art Colony Weekend, September 11-13. Explore the grounds of the T.C. Steele State Historic Site, while enjoying live plein air painting demonstrations at the 27th Annual Great Outdoor Art Contest on September 12 (part of the weekend’s festivities). Sample local fare and relax to a concert performed on the festival grounds as well.

Head back to downtown Nashville for the Village Art Walk, where several galleries will stay open late sharing not only their artwork with guests but also refreshments and live music. Additionally, Art Colony Weekend will feature the Nashville Cityscape Plein Air PaintOut, along with breakfast with the artists and a Brown County art history panel discussion.

For the entire month of October, Brown County also will be hosting its ever-popular Back Roads Studio Tours. Admire the breathtaking fall foliage while traveling along the back roads of Brown County to the home studios of local artists. Step into an artist’ world; watch and listen as artists’ share their stories and demonstrate their skills.

For more information on art events taking place in Nashville, please visit www.browncounty.com, or call 812-988-7303.

Rounding out the ArtsRoad 46 trio is Columbus, Indiana. With over seventy buildings and public art pieces by internationally noted artists and architects, Columbus is ranked as a top city for architecture and arts by critics and writers. Columbus’ art and culture are at every turn, seen in its architectural treasures, pristine parks and landscaping, dining, shopping, and more.

On September 12-13, art will fill the streets during the Columbus ArtFest. Enjoy artwork from local, regional, and national artists, including mixed media, ceramics, fiber, leather, furniture, glass, jewelry, printmaking, sculpture, and woodwork, all conveniently located downtown on Washington Street. Kicking off this year is the inaugural Columbus ArtFest Plein Air Paintout. Historical buildings, modern architecture, parks and walking trails provide opportune subjects for artists to capture the beauty of Columbus on canvas.

In November, Columbus also will host the Deja Vu Art & Fine Craft Show, a collection of artwork like none other. More than 60 artists who reuse or recycle materials will display their upcycled creations on November 14. What may seem like trash to most, will be transformed by participating artists into eye-pleasing art and fine crafts.

For more information on upcoming Columbus art festivals, please visit www.columbus.in.us, or call 812-378-2622.

Three cities. Two lanes. One great time. Hit the highway and check out ArtsRoad 46, where arts and culture abound. Learn more about ArtsRoad 46, including featured attractions, activities, and special events, at www.artsroad46.com.