About Art & Soul
Since 1996, Art & Soul has helped advance the careers of Black artists in Indianapolis. Each year, the festival kicks off Black History Month and features public events that celebrate Black visual art, music, dance, and literature. Art & Soul, presented by Indy Arts Council, is supported annually by Lilly Endowment Inc.
More than 600 people attended the 2023 festival. The grand finale, hosted at the Indianapolis Artsgarden, featured a musical tribute to international jazz legend Wes Montgomery, who would have turned 100 on March 6. Wes' youngest son, Robert Montgomery, spoke about his father's legacy and Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett declared March 6 "Wes Montgomery Day" in the city.
Art & Soul 2023 Events
Feb 3
Festival
Kickoff
Kickoff
Gallery 924 at Indy Arts Council
and The Cabaret
Feb 8
Featured Artist Showcase
The Jazz Kitchen
Feb 25
Celebration + Wes Montgomery Tribute
Indianapolis Artsgarden
11 places to remember Wes Montgomery in Indy
The talented jazz guitarist performed his music to packed houses all over the world, but he spent most of his time in Indianapolis.
12 great art & soul moments
That time Mari Evans paid tribute to the Black Arts Movement of the 1960s and ’70s–and more.
2023 Featured Artists
Four featured artists are selected annually to be spotlighted at Art & Soul events and performances.
These artists also receive year-long career development support.
Brandon Douthitt | Jazz Musician
Adrienne D. Jackson | Dancer
Jamichael Kyng Pollard | Visual Artist
Crystal V. Rhodes | Author & Playwright
