How to Explore Herron School Art Wing Indianapolis

The Herron School of Art and Design, part of Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), is home to one of the most vibrant and historically significant art collections in the Midwest. At the heart of this academic institution lies the Herron School Art Wing—a dynamic, publicly accessible space that bridges education, curation, and community engagement. Whether you’re an art student, a local resident, a visiting enthusiast, or a researcher, exploring the Herron School Art Wing offers a rare opportunity to experience original student and faculty work, rotating exhibitions, and architectural heritage all under one roof. Unlike traditional museums that prioritize permanent collections, the Art Wing thrives on evolution: its exhibitions change frequently, reflecting contemporary dialogues, experimental media, and emerging artistic voices. Understanding how to explore this space effectively enhances not only your appreciation of visual culture but also your connection to Indianapolis’s broader creative ecosystem. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to navigating, understanding, and maximizing your experience at the Herron School Art Wing.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Confirm Opening Hours and Access Requirements

Before planning your visit, verify the current operating schedule. The Herron School Art Wing is typically open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with extended hours during special exhibitions or student gallery openings. Weekends are generally closed unless otherwise announced. Access is free and open to the public—no ticketing or reservation is required for general viewing. However, if you plan to attend a lecture, artist talk, or opening reception, it’s advisable to check the official calendar, as some events may have limited capacity or require RSVPs. The Art Wing is located on the second floor of the Herron School building at 735 W. New York Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202. Visitors should enter through the main entrance of the Herron building, proceed to the second floor via elevator or stairs, and follow signage to the gallery spaces.

2. Review Current and Upcoming Exhibitions

Each semester, the Art Wing hosts multiple curated exhibitions, often organized by faculty, graduate students, or visiting artists. These may include thesis shows from MFA candidates, interdisciplinary collaborations, or thematic group exhibitions responding to social, political, or environmental issues. To prepare for your visit, visit the official Herron School website and navigate to the “Exhibitions” section. Here, you’ll find detailed descriptions, artist bios, curatorial statements, and installation photos. Look for keywords like “student-led,” “emerging artists,” or “experimental media” to identify shows that align with your interests. Some exhibitions may be thematically dense—such as “Materiality and Memory in Post-Industrial Spaces” or “Digital Embodiment: Reimagining the Body Through VR”—so reading the curatorial context beforehand will deepen your engagement.

3. Plan Your Route Through the Gallery Layout

The Art Wing spans approximately 8,000 square feet across three interconnected gallery rooms, each with distinct architectural features and lighting conditions. The main gallery (Room 201) is a high-ceilinged, naturally lit space ideal for large-scale installations and sculptures. Room 202, adjacent and slightly more intimate, often features two-dimensional works—paintings, prints, and digital projections. Room 203, the “Project Space,” is reserved for temporary, boundary-pushing works that may include performance documentation, sound art, or interactive elements. Before entering, take a moment to orient yourself using the floor plan posted at the entrance. Many exhibitions are arranged to encourage a specific flow—beginning with conceptual framing and progressing toward emotional or sensory resolution. Resist the urge to rush; allow yourself time to absorb each piece individually before moving to the next.

4. Engage with Interpretive Materials

Unlike commercial galleries, the Art Wing prioritizes educational context. Every exhibition includes printed wall texts, artist statements, and sometimes QR codes linking to audio guides or video interviews. These materials are not supplementary—they are integral to understanding the work. Read the curatorial introduction first; it often outlines the exhibition’s central question or tension. Then, examine each artwork’s label, which typically includes the artist’s name, medium, year, and a brief explanation. For example, a piece titled “Erosion Index

3” might be described as “mixed media on reclaimed steel, 2023, inspired by the decay of industrial infrastructure in the Midwest.” This contextual layer transforms passive viewing into active inquiry. If audio guides are available, use headphones to listen to the artist discussing their process—many students record these themselves as part of their thesis requirement.

5. Observe the Physical and Spatial Dynamics

Art in the Herron Art Wing is often designed to respond to the architecture of the space itself. Pay attention to how light enters the room, how shadows fall across surfaces, and how viewers are guided through movement. A sculpture placed near a window may be intended to cast shifting shadows throughout the day. A suspended textile might be calibrated to respond to air currents from HVAC vents. These are not accidents—they are deliberate artistic decisions. Walk around each piece from multiple angles. Crouch, stand on tiptoe, step back, then move closer. Note how the perception of scale, texture, and color changes with perspective. Many student works are created specifically for this environment, making the physical experience of the space as important as the objects within it.

6. Interact with Student and Faculty Ambassadors

One of the most unique aspects of the Herron Art Wing is the presence of student docents and faculty guides. These individuals are often enrolled in the Art Education or Curatorial Studies programs and are trained to discuss the exhibitions with visitors. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. You might inquire, “What was the most challenging part of creating this piece?” or “How does this work relate to the broader theme of the exhibition?” These conversations frequently reveal insights not found in printed materials. Faculty members may also be present during opening receptions or critique days, offering deeper theoretical context. Engaging with these individuals transforms your visit from observation to dialogue.

7. Document Your Experience Thoughtfully

Photography is permitted for personal, non-commercial use, unless otherwise noted on a specific artwork’s label. Some installations may prohibit flash or tripods to protect sensitive materials. When photographing, aim to capture not just the artwork, but its relationship to the space—the way it interacts with architecture, light, or other pieces. Use your phone’s manual settings to adjust exposure if lighting is uneven. Consider keeping a digital or physical journal: jot down your initial impressions, questions that arise, or emotional responses. These notes become valuable for later reflection, especially if you’re using the visit for academic research or creative inspiration. Avoid relying solely on social media captions; instead, write in full sentences that articulate your thoughts.

8. Attend Public Programs and Events

The Art Wing regularly hosts public programs that enrich the exhibition experience. These include artist talks, panel discussions, live performances, and open critiques. Events are typically announced on the Herron website and social media channels at least two weeks in advance. Many are held in the adjacent Hine Hall auditorium or outdoors on the courtyard. Attending these events allows you to hear directly from the creators, understand their conceptual frameworks, and witness the evolution of ideas in real time. Even if you can’t attend a live event, many are recorded and archived on the Herron YouTube channel—accessible to the public. Watching these recordings later can serve as a powerful supplement to your in-person visit.

9. Explore Related Resources on Campus

The Art Wing is just one component of a larger artistic ecosystem at Herron. After your visit, consider exploring other campus resources. The Herron Library, located on the first floor, holds a specialized collection of artist monographs, exhibition catalogs, and rare art journals. The campus also features the IUPUI Public Art Collection, with over 50 outdoor sculptures and murals scattered across the grounds. A short walk from the Art Wing is the Madam C.J. Walker Building, home to the Indiana Historical Society’s African American Art Collection. Integrating these visits into a single day allows you to contextualize the Art Wing’s work within broader regional and historical narratives.

10. Reflect and Extend Your Learning

After leaving the gallery, take time to reflect. Ask yourself: What surprised me? What did I not understand? What work lingered in my mind? Use this reflection to guide further exploration. Search for the artist’s other works online. Look up the exhibition’s theme in academic databases like JSTOR or Artstor. If you’re a student, consider writing a short essay or creating your own artwork inspired by what you saw. If you’re a community member, share your experience with local art groups or on social media using the hashtag

HerronArtWing. The goal is not just to consume art, but to participate in its ongoing conversation.

Best Practices

Respect the Integrity of the Work

Art in academic settings is often fragile, experimental, or conceptually delicate. Avoid touching surfaces, even if they appear sturdy. Maintain a safe distance from installations, especially those involving electronics, textiles, or organic materials. Never lean on walls or pedestals. These practices preserve the artwork for future viewers and honor the labor behind its creation.

Arrive with an Open Mind

Many works in the Art Wing challenge conventional aesthetics. You may encounter abstract forms, dissonant sounds, or unsettling imagery. Rather than dismissing them as “not art,” approach them with curiosity. Ask: What is the artist trying to communicate? What emotions or memories does this evoke? The most powerful works often provoke discomfort before revelation.

Visit During Off-Peak Hours

Weekday mornings (9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.) and early afternoons (1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.) are typically the quietest times. Visiting during these windows allows for uninterrupted contemplation and better opportunities to speak with staff or student guides. Avoid visiting during midday lunch hours or immediately after class dismissal, when foot traffic increases.

Use the Right Tools for Observation

Bring a small notebook and pen for jotting down thoughts. A magnifying glass (even a phone app) can help examine fine details in mixed-media works. If you’re interested in color theory or composition, consider using a color-picker app to analyze dominant hues. Avoid using bright phone lights that may interfere with ambient lighting in the gallery.

Support the Program

While there is no admission fee, donations are welcomed and directly fund student exhibitions, publications, and outreach initiatives. Consider making a small contribution at the kiosk near the exit. You can also volunteer to assist with installation, event staffing, or archival digitization—opportunities are regularly posted on the Herron website.

Engage with the Local Art Community

Connect with local art organizations like the Indianapolis Art Center, the Eiteljorg Museum, or the Broad Ripple Art Walk. Many Herron faculty and students participate in these events. Building these connections expands your understanding of how academic art practices intersect with public art cultures.

Stay Informed Through Official Channels

Subscribe to the Herron School newsletter and follow their Instagram and Facebook accounts (@herronart). These platforms often share behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks of upcoming shows, and announcements about artist residencies or funding opportunities. Real-time updates ensure you never miss a significant exhibition.

Practice Ethical Documentation

If you photograph artworks for personal use, avoid posting them with misleading captions or in commercial contexts. Always credit the artist and the exhibition title. When sharing on social media, tag @herronart and use

HerronArtWing to support visibility for emerging creators.

Be Mindful of Accessibility

The Art Wing is fully ADA-compliant, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. If you require assistive listening devices, large-print guides, or sign language interpretation for events, contact the gallery coordinator at least 48 hours in advance. Inclusivity is a core value of the program.

Encourage Critical Dialogue

Art is not meant to be passively consumed. After your visit, discuss what you saw with friends, classmates, or online communities. Ask questions like: “Do you think this piece succeeds in its intent?” or “How would this work change if displayed in a different context?” These conversations cultivate deeper critical thinking and help sustain a vibrant cultural discourse.

Tools and Resources

Official Herron School Website

The primary resource for all exhibition information, event calendars, and contact details is herron.iupui.edu. The “Exhibitions” tab is updated weekly and includes downloadable PDFs of exhibition catalogs and artist bios.

Herron Library Special Collections

Located on the first floor, the Herron Library houses over 12,000 volumes focused on contemporary art, design theory, and global visual cultures. Access is open to the public during library hours. The library’s digital archive includes digitized student theses and exhibition records dating back to 1998.

Indiana University Digital Library

For academic research, visit dlib.indiana.edu to access digitized archives of Herron’s historical exhibitions, faculty publications, and student portfolios. Many resources are tagged with metadata for easy searching by medium, theme, or year.

Artstor and JSTOR

These scholarly databases provide access to high-resolution images and peer-reviewed articles on contemporary art practices. Use keywords like “Herron School,” “Indiana art education,” or “student-led exhibitions” to locate relevant materials. Many public libraries offer free access to these platforms with a library card.

Google Arts & Culture

While not all Herron exhibitions are featured here, select past shows have been digitized and made available through Google Arts & Culture. Search “Herron School Art Wing” to view virtual walkthroughs and curated collections.

Mobile Apps for Art Exploration

• Art Recognition – AI-powered app that identifies artworks and provides contextual information.
• Google Lens – Use your phone camera to scan artwork labels and retrieve related content.
• Evernote or Notion – Ideal for organizing notes, photos, and reflections from multiple visits.

Local Transit and Parking

Public transit options include the IndyGo bus lines 6 and 16, which stop within a five-minute walk of the Herron building. Parking is available in the IUPUI Parking Garage on New York Street, with validation offered for visitors during gallery hours. Bicycle racks are located at the main entrance, and the Cultural Trail runs directly past the building.

Printed Exhibition Catalogs

Each major exhibition produces a limited-run catalog featuring high-quality images, essays by faculty critics, and artist interviews. These are available for free at the gallery entrance or can be requested via email. They make excellent reference materials for students and collectors alike.

YouTube Channel: Herron School of Art and Design

Over 200 video recordings of artist talks, studio tours, and exhibition openings are archived here. Search for “Art Wing” to find specific events. Videos are captioned and optimized for accessibility.

Local Art Blogs and Podcasts

Follow Indianapolis-based art bloggers like “The Artful Hoosier” or listen to the “Midwest Art Radio” podcast, which frequently features interviews with Herron students and faculty. These platforms offer critical perspectives not found in official publications.

Real Examples

Example 1: “Echoes of the Factory Floor” – Fall 2023

In Fall 2023, the Art Wing hosted “Echoes of the Factory Floor,” a group exhibition curated by graduate students exploring the legacy of manufacturing in Indianapolis. The centerpiece was a 12-foot sculpture titled “Forged Memory” by MFA candidate Lena Tran, constructed from repurposed steel beams, rusted gears, and audio recordings of retired factory workers. Visitors were invited to press buttons embedded in the base, triggering 30-second audio clips of personal stories. The exhibition also included a wall of photographic portraits of workers, each paired with a handwritten letter describing their relationship to the industry. The curators provided a printed timeline of Indianapolis’s industrial decline, allowing viewers to contextualize the emotional weight of each piece. Many visitors reported being moved to tears—not by the aesthetic, but by the intimacy of the voices. The exhibition later toured to the Indiana State Museum as part of a community outreach initiative.

Example 2: “Pixel and Pulse” – Spring 2024

Spring 2024’s “Pixel and Pulse” showcased digital and bio-art works responding to the intersection of technology and the human body. One standout piece, “Neural Bloom,” by undergraduate artist Marcus Delgado, used EEG sensors to translate the viewer’s brainwaves into generative digital flowers projected onto a wall. As visitors sat quietly in a dimly lit room, their mental states—calm, focused, anxious—altered the color, speed, and density of the projections. A companion installation, “Breath Archive,” collected visitors’ exhaled breath into sealed vials, each labeled with a timestamp and emotional descriptor chosen by the participant. The exhibition generated over 500 data points and became the subject of a peer-reviewed paper in the Journal of Digital Art and Culture. The Art Wing’s decision to make the data publicly available for research sparked national interest in student-led data art.

Example 3: “Material Memory: Textiles of the Midwest” – Winter 2023

This exhibition featured textile works by Indigenous, Black, and immigrant artists from across Indiana, exploring how fabric carries cultural memory. One piece, “Weave of the Displaced” by Hmong-American artist Neng Yang, used hand-dyed cotton strips woven into a 20-foot tapestry that depicted migration routes from Southeast Asia to Indianapolis. Each thread was dyed with natural pigments sourced from plants native to the artist’s ancestral homeland. Accompanying the tapestry was a soundscape of traditional Hmong folk songs, played through hidden speakers. The exhibition included a workshop where visitors could learn basic weaving techniques using donated fabric scraps. Over 800 community members participated, turning the gallery into a living archive of cultural exchange.

Example 4: “The Unseen Curriculum” – Ongoing

This permanent installation, located in the hallway outside the main gallery, features rotating student projects that were rejected from formal exhibitions due to “non-traditional” formats. One display included a pile of crumpled sketchbook pages, each annotated with the artist’s self-critique. Another was a single chair with a looped audio recording of a student describing their struggle with imposter syndrome. This installation challenges the notion of what constitutes “exhibition-worthy” art and invites viewers to reconsider failure as part of the creative process. It has become one of the most discussed elements of the Art Wing, frequently cited in admissions interviews and campus tours.

FAQs

Is there an admission fee to visit the Herron School Art Wing?

No, admission is completely free and open to the public. No reservation is required for general viewing.

Can I take photographs inside the Art Wing?

Yes, personal, non-commercial photography is permitted unless a specific artwork is marked with a “No Photography” sign. Flash and tripods are prohibited to protect sensitive materials.

Are guided tours available?

While drop-in visits are encouraged, guided tours can be arranged for groups of 10 or more by contacting the gallery coordinator at least one week in advance.

Is the Art Wing accessible to visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the entire space is ADA-compliant, with elevators, accessible restrooms, and wheelchair-accessible viewing heights. Assistive listening devices and large-print guides are available upon request.

Can I bring children to the Art Wing?

Yes, children are welcome. However, due to the experimental nature of some installations, supervision is required. The gallery offers a free family activity kit at the front desk, including sketchbooks and guided prompts for younger visitors.

How often do exhibitions change?

Exhibitions typically rotate every 6 to 8 weeks, with major shows occurring each semester. There are usually 4–6 distinct exhibitions per academic year.

Do I need to be an art student to appreciate the Art Wing?

No. The exhibitions are designed to be accessible to all audiences, regardless of background. The interpretive materials are written in clear, engaging language to support diverse viewers.

Can I submit my artwork for consideration?

Student submissions are accepted through faculty nomination. Faculty and alumni may submit proposals via the exhibitions committee portal on the Herron website. Unsolicited submissions from the general public are not accepted.

Are there parking options nearby?

Yes, the IUPUI Parking Garage on New York Street offers visitor parking with validation during gallery hours. Bicycle racks and IndyGo bus stops are also conveniently located.

What should I do if I have a question during my visit?

Student docents and gallery staff are present during all open hours. Simply approach the front desk or any staff member wearing a green lanyard—they are trained to assist with inquiries.

Conclusion

Exploring the Herron School Art Wing in Indianapolis is more than a visit to a gallery—it is an immersion into a living, breathing ecosystem of creativity, critique, and community. Unlike institutions that preserve art as a relic, the Art Wing treats it as a process: dynamic, unfinished, and deeply human. Each exhibition is a conversation between student and teacher, between medium and message, between the individual and the collective. By following the steps outlined in this guide—preparing with context, engaging with materials, respecting the space, and extending your learning—you transform from a passive observer into an active participant in the cultural life of Indianapolis. The works you encounter here are not merely displayed; they are entrusted to you. Your attention, your questions, your reflections give them meaning beyond the walls of the building. Whether you return once or repeatedly, each visit deepens your understanding of what art can be when it is rooted in education, experimentation, and courage. Let this guide be your compass, and let the Art Wing be your catalyst—for curiosity, for connection, for change.