Entries sought for first annual Fountain Square “Art of July” parade

By: Kelli Safford and Susan Sullivan

Who doesn’t love a parade? And when you combine it with art, music, and Fourth of July fun and fireworks, what could be better?

Local residents, civic groups and organizations, schools and universities, churches, business leaders, and those with community spirit and an appreciation for public art are encouraged learn more about the Fountain Square Art Council’s first annual Art of July parade, which will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 4.

The call for participation and registration is posted online at www.fsartscouncil.org. The due date for all registrations is June 5. There is no cost for parade entries and attendance is free.

“Our goal is to build on what the Indianapolis Museum of Art started last spring,” explains Elizabeth Ryan, one of the FSAC’s founding members. “The IMA’s On Procession event in Fountain Square was a unique celebration of the arts by individuals and groups of all backgrounds and ages who shared an interest in and appreciation for public art. FSAC wants to retain the celebration of art and community spirit through a more grass-roots approach that is inclusive of all who live, work, and raise their families in the Fountain Square area every day.”

Participation is open to anyone who wants develop parade entries for this all ages event, which will serve as a one-of-a-kind, traveling platform to showcase contemporary public art. Entries are expected to range from the traditional to nontraditional, Ryan says, and could include floats, marching bands, dance troupes, performance art, and portable artworks of all types, sizes, and shapes that reflect themes of community celebration, street pageantry, and parades.

But the fun won’t end with the parade, adds Ryan. “We’re also planning to have live music. Spectators and participants can stroll through the area, visiting shops, galleries, and restaurants. And of course, we encourage people to bring their lawn chairs because Fountain Square is a great vantage point for watching the annual downtown Indianapolis fireworks.”

The one-mile parade route will begin at 901 Shelby Street, making its way through Fountain Square and Fletcher Place. Maximum height of all entries is a maximum of 13 feet. For complete details, including a map of the route, marshaling area and time, and online registration form, visit www.fsartscouncil.org.