New Art Fair to Explore Equity

An Indianapolis-based nonprofit that launched during the pandemic last year to help artists, creatives and entrepreneurs to “produce, promote and preserve culture in cities” is preparing for its first ever major art fair. Cultural development firm GANGGANG will host BUTTER, a multi-day event over Labor Day weekend. It will showcase the works of more than three dozen black visual artists from across the country.

During an appearance on Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick, co-founders Mali Jeffers and Alan Bacon describe the initiative as an economic development play.

“Our intention here is to sell 100% of the works and for 100% of the profit to return back to the artist,” said Jeffers.

Jeffers says GANGGANG was created to find opportunities to spark activity in the creative economy as a means toward a more equitable city. Bacon says while their efforts are focused on inclusion, it’s also about supporting entrepreneurship.

“We know that the creative economy has a lot of entrepreneurs within it. And there’s also a lot of persons of color, you know, within the creative economy as artists,” said Bacon.

Jeffers says BUTTER will also help to elevate art in Indianapolis with local artists on the same bill and platform as nationally recognized, renowned artists.

“This is an economic development play. And this is a talent retention strategy, especially to create to keep our creative talent here in Indianapolis,” said Jeffers. “And to let them know you can make it here. You can thrive here. You can make money here as an artist.”

The event is open to general public. It is scheduled for Friday through Sunday at The Stutz, 1045 N Senate Avenue in Indianapolis. Click here to learn more about tickets.