Celebrating 70 Years: Talbot Street Art Fair Returns to Indianapolis

The Talbot Street Art Fair, Indiana's oldest juried art fair, is set to celebrate its 70th anniversary this weekend in Indianapolis's historic Herron-Morton Place neighborhood. Scheduled for June 21–22, 2025, the event will feature over 200 artists from across the United States, showcasing a diverse array of artworks. Organizers anticipate attracting approximately 60,000 visitors to this free, family-friendly event.

Established in 1956 by students from the Herron School of Art, the fair began as a modest sidewalk show with 15 artists and has since grown into a nationally recognized event. The inaugural fair was held on Mother's Day weekend, with artists displaying their work against trees and fences, as well as on clotheslines and card tables. The event's name reflects the historical spelling of Talbott Street, which originally had only one 't' at the end.

The 2025 fair will take place on Talbot Street between 16th and 20th Streets. Operating hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free, and the event will proceed rain or shine.

The Herron-Morton Place neighborhood, known for its late 19th- and early 20th-century residential architecture, provides a picturesque backdrop for the fair. The area was originally part of a 160-acre land patent granted in 1822 and has a rich history, including serving as the site for the Indiana State Fairgrounds and Camp Morton during the Civil War. The neighborhood was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.

Attendees can expect a wide variety of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, photography, fiber art, jewelry, glass, and wood pieces. In addition to the art exhibits, the fair offers family-friendly activities such as "Spin-a-Pot," a hands-on pottery experience, community art projects, and face painting for children. Local musicians and performers will provide live entertainment throughout the weekend, creating a festive atmosphere.

The Talbot Street Art Fair is organized by a nonprofit group dedicated to promoting fine art and supporting the local arts community. Proceeds from the event help fund art scholarships and programs in Indianapolis schools, reinforcing the fair's mission to invest in the next generation of artists.

Weather forecasts for the event weekend indicate very hot and humid conditions, with temperatures reaching up to 95°F (35°C). Attendees are advised to stay cool and hydrated while enjoying the fair.

The Talbot Street Art Fair serves as a significant cultural event that fosters community engagement and supports the arts. By providing a platform for artists to showcase their work and for the public to engage with art, the fair contributes to the cultural enrichment of Indianapolis. The event also has economic implications, attracting visitors who contribute to the local economy through spending on accommodations, dining, and other activities.

As the Talbot Street Art Fair marks its 70th anniversary, it continues to be a testament to the enduring power of art to bring communities together and inspire future generations.