Since 2001, Open Space: Art About the Land has been more than just an art exhibition—it’s a vibrant celebration of the natural world and the boundless inspiration it offers to artists. This annual showcase invites artists from across Indiana to connect with the landscape in creative, unexpected ways. From stunning paintings to thought-provoking sculptures, photography, and mixed-media works, Open Space highlights the diversity and beauty of art created in response to nature.

This year’s exhibition, running November 2, 2024 – January 5, 2025, promises to deliver a rich variety of works that reflect the environmental landscape of East Central Indiana—from lush forests and serene rivers to the quiet beauty of rural life. And while the exhibition itself is a remarkable celebration of art, it also honors the artists whose works stand out, offering recognition to those whose pieces best capture the theme of "art about the land."

The Winners: Honoring Outstanding Works of Art

Each year, Open Space recognizes the most compelling works through a series of awards, honoring exceptional contributions in various categories. This year’s exhibition, juried by Mark Ruschman, Curator of Fine Arts at the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, highlighted several standout pieces that exemplify creativity, skill, and a deep connection to the land.

Here are the 2024 award winners:

**Anderson Prize for Art**

Vernon Bedel, *Solitude at McVey*

**Jim Faulkner Landscape Merit Award**

Rick D. Wilson, *Happy Ending*

**Three-dimensional Artwork Merit Award**

Kameron Robinson, *Empty But Solid*

**Photography Merit Award**

Jack Wickes, *Above the Falls*

**Third Place**

Bruce Neckar, *Foxscape White River Corridor*

**Second Place**

Juli Dorton, *Dancing in the Shadows* *– Virginia Creeper*

**First Place**

Joe Vondersaar, *Dor’e Bay*

People’s Choice Award – Your Vote Matters!

In addition to the juried awards, we’re excited to introduce the People’s Choice Award this year! This is your chance to make your voice heard and vote for the piece that resonates with you the most. Which artwork speaks to your heart? Which one makes you smile, reflect, or feel a sense of awe? The People’s Choice Award is all about what you love, and we invite all visitors to come, enjoy the art, and cast their vote for their favorite piece in the exhibition.

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with the works, share your thoughts, and support your favorite artists. Your vote could help determine which piece takes home this special honor—so come ready to immerse yourself in the art, explore the landscapes, and vote for the artwork that truly connects with you.

Tandem Exhibition at the Anderson Museum of Art

As part of Open Space: Art About the Land, the exhibition continues its longstanding tradition of featuring tandem exhibitions at Minnetrista and the Anderson Museum of Art. This ongoing partnership allows visitors to experience a wider variety of works by artists from across the state in two different spaces. The contrast between the venues offers a unique opportunity to explore the art in two distinctive environments—whether you’re drawn to the serene, natural setting at Minnetrista or the contemporary galleries at the Anderson Museum of Art.

By visiting both locations, you’ll be able to deepen your experience and appreciation for the diverse ways artists interpret the land around them. The tandem exhibitions help highlight the broad scope of Indiana’s artistic talent and the many creative interpretations of the landscapes that shape our state.

Reciprocal Tickets for Members

For those who are members of Minnetrista, there’s even more reason to visit! During the exhibition, your Minnetrista membership will grant you reciprocal admission to the Anderson Museum of Art, allowing you to enjoy both venues at no additional cost. This is a fantastic way to experience the exhibition in two distinctive spaces and make the most of your membership benefits.

If you’re not yet a member, now is the perfect time to join and take advantage of this exclusive perk, along with all the other great benefits that come with a Minnetrista membership.

A Tribute to the Land – Art and Conservation in Harmony

What makes Open Space even more meaningful is its connection to the land it celebrates. This exhibition, presented in collaboration with Minnetrista and the Anderson Museum of Art, is part of a larger mission to raise awareness and support for Red-tail Land Conservancy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the wild lands of East Central Indiana. The exhibition serves as both an artistic showcase and a call to action to protect the landscapes that continue to inspire so many of these remarkable works of art.

The partnership between the exhibition and Red-tail Land Conservancy highlights the critical importance of preserving natural spaces, ensuring that future generations will be able to experience the same beauty that these artists have captured in their work. Every piece of art in Open Space is a tribute to the land—and a reminder of the importance of safeguarding it for the future.

Why You Should Attend

Whether you're an art enthusiast, nature lover, or someone simply looking for inspiration, Open Space: Art About the Land is an exhibition you won’t want to miss. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the landscape through the eyes of talented artists, see the beauty of the land reflected in a variety of mediums, and support an important cause.

This year’s exhibition, with its award-winning works and a continued focus on land conservation, offers an enriching experience for everyone who attends. And with the added excitement of the People’s Choice Award, you can be part of the process and have your say in which piece resonates the most with the audience. Plus, with the ongoing tandem exhibition at the Anderson Museum of Art, you’ll have the chance to see even more diverse works in different spaces, creating a truly immersive experience.

Mark your calendars for November 2, 2024 – January 5, 2025, bring your friends, and be sure to visit Minnetrista or the Anderson Museum of Art to explore this year’s stunning collection of works. It’s a chance to engage with both art and nature in a way that’s as inspiring as it is impactful. Come, enjoy, and vote for what makes your heart smile!

Open Space: Art About the Land – Celebrating Nature’s Creative Power and Award-Winning Works