Uncovering Bloomingtons Quirky and Eclectic Artistic Scene

Bloomington, Indiana is a charming college town that boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The city has an eclectic mix of visual arts museums, theaters, concert venues and galleries where visitors can experience the friendly nature and artistic spirit of its people.

One mustsee destination for art lovers in Bloomington is The Grunwald Gallery (1201 E 7th St), located on the Indiana University campus. This gallery showcases contemporary artwork from artists all around the world and pushes boundaries in terms of medium, form and message.

For those looking to explore other unique spots in Bloomington, head over to WonderLab (308 W 4th St), an interactive science museum with plenty of handson exhibits perfect for families. Alternatively, pay a visit to John Waldron Arts Center (122 S Walnut St) which showcases work by local artists across various mediums including painting, sculpture and photography.

If youre more interested in theater productions then be sure to check out Cardinal Stage Company (900 S Walnut St). They put on fantastic shows throughout the year ranging from classic plays like Shakespeares Hamlet or Arthur Millers Death Of A Salesman to modern musicals such as Fun Home or Into The Woods.

For some live music entertainment Caravan World Rhythms (211 W Washington St) offers global beats that are sure to get your feet moving! Or catch upandcoming acts at The Bishop Bar (123 South Walnut Street).

But perhaps one of the best parts about art culture in this small Midwestern hamlet is stumbling upon unknown gems such as painted mural alleyways like Vibe Mural Alleyway located off Kirkwood Ave., murals painted on downtown buildings by festival winning artists commissioned by Dimension Mill Incubator project led Graffiti Busters commissioning group who update their graffiti art yearly; thrift stores filled with vintage clothing finds like The Lucky Duck (322 E Kirkwood Ave)or downtown shop Thrift on 6. Or niche shops that specialize in young, streetwear styles like Goods for Cooks (115 N College Ave), or three different jewelry makers with their own unique vision down alleyways and side streets of downtown.

In Bloomington they celebrate intellectual curiosity as well a great example is the awardwinning independent bookstore called The Book Corner (100 North Walnut Street). This small yet impactful book store sells new books with marked up margins to promote greater civic transparency as well as rare antique volumes. They organize authors visits readings and workshops for both adults and young people alike.

Overall, the friendly nature of Bloomington coupled with its rich artistic milieu makes this destination an essential stop for visitors looking to explore Indiana beyond Indianapolis.

Websites:

www.visitbloomington.com

cardinalstage.org/

wonderlab.org/

Twitter handles: @VisitBtown; @CardinalStage; @wonderlab;iuartspubs, goodieshandmademarket