2021 Mayor's Arts Award Nominee: Debra Gindhart Dragoo
Why are the arts important in Muncie? What do the arts do for the community?
The arts are forever valuable to our community as they are a tactile, visual and sounds archival of our local community culture. The arts provide a connective tool essential for our youth through seniors.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
My creative talents are in my DNA. Fine Arts education began at Burris Laboratory School, Ball State University, IU Bloomington and continue to this day.
Local artist, educator and community arts advocate.
I call myself a:
Painter
Poet
Designer
Found objects preservationist
What is your creative practice and how did you get started?
My focus is on social commentary wall art, humorous text on found art, and repurposed presentation. Saving the landfills one piece of art and costume jewelry at a time.
What do you wish others knew about your practice? What is a fun fact about what you do?
Oprah Winfrey owns some of my wearable art.
How did you become interested in the arts?
My mother was quite creative, great grandfather was Richard Love who cofounded the Indiana School of Art on Talbott Street in downtown Indianapolis that became John Herron School of Art. Hence the art is in my DNA.
Where can people see your work or learn more about you?
Madjax Muncie
Maker in Residence
Gindhart at Madjax; second floor galleries
What is your favorite part about being an artist or creative in Muncie?
I love that we (Muncie) have the partnership with Ball State University, that there are many creative community arts programs and I truly enjoy sharing laughter and awe with my art patrons.
If you could change one thing about the arts in Muncie, what would it be?
I would like to see more inter generational events and programs. I feel the wisdom exchange is invaluable for all ages.
What is your favorite arts memory? An amazing event? An experience? A place?
All America City competition 2001. Traveled with a delegation from Muncie to Atlanta, Georgia to present our incredible community programs. Fabulous lifetime achievement!
Who is your favorite creative inspiration or Arts hero (can be anyone/anything)? Why?
Pete Carr
Richard Kishel
Andy Warhol
Jackson Pollock
Eric Carle
James Baldwin
William Shakespeare
Gloria Steinem
Joy Hernandez-Butler
I have so many influential creative mentors, I am grateful and excited by their energy!
