Indy Arts Council Honors Six at 38th Annual Start with Art Celebration

The Indy Arts Council honored six individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to Indianapolis' arts and culture scene at the 38th annual Start with Art celebration on August 21, 2025, held at the Indiana Roof Ballroom. This event, marking the commencement of the fall arts season, brought together nearly 1,000 arts, business, and community leaders to support the council's mission of championing arts and culture.

The 2025 ARTI Award recipients are:

• Cultural Entrepreneur Award: Indy Dance Council, recognized for promoting dance and supporting dancers in the Indianapolis area.
• Neighborhood Impact Award: Mike Graves of BRIDGE Collective and The Murphy Arts Center, honored for his contributions to the local arts community.
• Artist/Activist Award: Danicia Monét Malone of Rokh, acknowledged for her work focusing on cultural and community initiatives.
• Corporate Leadership Award: Herbert Simon Family Foundation, recognized for supporting various arts and culture initiatives in Indianapolis.
• Community Partnerships Award: IF Theatre and Flanner House for Flanner Fringe Lab, awarded for fostering community engagement through the arts.
• Christel DeHaan Lifetime Achievement Award: Iris Rosa, honored for her significant contributions to the cultural landscape of Indianapolis.

The awards were crafted by local artist Jessica Dunn, known professionally as Sesseka, who also created a video titled "Silent Symphony" showcasing Indiana's biodiversity through the seasons.

Indy Arts Council President & CEO Judith B. Thomas expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, "We are thrilled to honor the 2025 ARTI Award winners and celebrate the transformative power of creativity in our community." She also extended gratitude to the Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF) for their generous support of the ARTI Awards over the past four years.

The event featured a State of the Arts presentation by Thomas, highlighting milestones such as the 30th anniversary of the Indianapolis Artsgarden and the council's investment of $849,000 into over 800 individual artists in 2024. Additionally, the Indianapolis arts and culture sector generated $524 million in direct economic impact, serving 6.5 million residents and visitors.

Established in 1987, the Indy Arts Council serves as central Indiana's leading arts advocacy and services agency, supporting nearly 80 organizations and integrating local artists into major events. The Start with Art celebration has been a cornerstone event since its inception, bringing together arts, business, and community leaders to support the council's mission.

The recognition of these individuals and organizations underscores the vibrant and diverse arts scene in Indianapolis, highlighting the integral role of the arts in fostering community engagement, cultural enrichment, and economic development.

The 2025 ARTI Awards not only celebrate the achievements of the honorees but also serve as a testament to the thriving arts community in Indianapolis, reinforcing the city's commitment to supporting and promoting cultural initiatives.