INDY'S WEEKLY ALTERNATIVE NEWSPAPER HIGHLIGHTING ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

Avery Brooks at 'Meet the Artists XX'

Meet the Artists, the city’s longest running celebration of its African-American art scene, is back for its 20th anniversary exhibition, themed “Voices: A Collection of Artistic Expression.” A ground-breaking free program sponsored by the Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library, this year’s edition of Meet the Artists is enhanced by the opportunity it provides for people to experience the new Central Library building. But that’s not all.

This year’s Gala Opening Reception Feb. 2 from 5-10 p.m. will feature works by over 50 local artists, plus a special conversation with noted actor, singer, director, teacher and artistic director for the National Black Arts Festival Avery Brooks, from such films as Star Trek: Legacy and American History X and the TV series Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. There will also be African drumming courtesy of Urban Vibes, presentations by the Kenyetta Dance Company and the Asante Children’s Theatre, poetry readings by James Depp Sr. and Siam, a clown and magic show, music by The Toy Factory and a hair and fashion show presented by Thierry Baptiste.

Then, Feb. 3 at 2 p.m., there will be a free panel discussion, “Breaking Into the Art Business,” featuring nationally recognized African-American gallery owners Bing Davis and Walter and Cathy Shannon. All of this happens at the new Central Library, 40 E. St. Clair St. For more information, call 317-275-4099 or go to www.imcpl.org. The exhibit runs through Feb. 29.