The Artists Guild of Valparaiso will host the concluding reception for “The Birds of the Heir”, a special collaborative exhibition inspired by local Valparaiso author, Leena J. Byrd (pen name), who officially launched her book, The Beauty of Flight this Spring on March 14th. Both the book and the exhibit encircle a collective metaphorical theme: BIRDS. 

Join us as we wrap up this incredible exhibit, a visual nest of local creative ingenuity, on Saturday, June 20th from 4:00 – 7:00p at 255 Indiana Ave. Valparaiso, IN. 46383 

This unique and FREE exhibition invites visitors into a deeply reflective and visually moving experience where literature and visual arts intersect. Each of the 17 artists currently on display created bird-themed artwork inspired by the emotional landscape of Leena’s writing, interwoven with personal interpretations of transformation, connection, grief, hope, and renewal. The exhibit brings together visual interpretations of the emotional themes of LOVE, LOSS, and LIGHT; found in Byrd’s memoir. 

“I’ve navigated some seasons drenched in absolute fear, but who doesn’t in this life, right?” Leena Byrd shrugged, “This memoir took seven years to complete and provided a way out of inconsolable grief. Creative instincts saved my life. Painting got me out of bed, but writing delivered me into LIGHT-filled clarity that only faith can evoke. Yet still, I needed both to evolve into the flight God had in store for me. That leap took immense courage… courage we are all equally capable of. I am merely a small bird who leaned in to listen and now it’s important to spread that message.” Leena Byrd shared.

On June 20th, attendees can purchase “The Beauty of Flight” at this special finale and receive a live signing from Leena, while book copies last. “Flight” provides a cohesive thread for her book, for featured artists’ works, and for viewers’ experience. 

“The Beauty of Flight” is more than a book title, it is a metaphor for growth, release, courage, and becoming,” said Board member Beth Vottero from the Artists Guild of Valparaiso. “This exhibition celebrates the power of storytelling and artistic expression to connect people through shared human experiences.” 

The finale includes: 

• Original artwork of Leena Byrd and 16 fellow birds in her flock 
• Meet and Greet with featured artists 
• Artwork for purchase 
• Book Signing with Leena Byrd 
• Live Music + Light Eats 

An exclusive unveiling of Leena Byrd’s FINAL PAINTING in her series of three ARTIST GUILD OF VALPO Member exhibit celebration 

Live performances by dancers and artists, to be revealed. 

Collaboration between an AUTHOR and visual ARTISTS 

Creative ‘seeds’ of healing, hope, forgiveness, and transformation 

Community members, art lovers, readers, and supporters of the regional arts community are invited to attend and experience this meaningful exhibition. 

About the Artists Guild of Valparaiso 

The Artists Guild of Valparaiso is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting artists, fostering creativity, and enriching the cultural life of the Northwest Indiana community through exhibitions, education, and collaborative artistic experiences.

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On Friday, May 15, students from St. Casimir School, St. John Bosco School, and St. Stanislaus School participated in the Junior Leadership Journey Art Gala at St. Casimir School in Hammond. On Wednesday, May 27, students from Queen of All Saints School hosted their own celebration, showcasing their artwork and leadership journeys to family and friends.

For Gisele Jones, director of scholarship programs and leadership development at Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana, the event embodies the organization’s mission.

“Our mission is all about the children. This event allows them to be front and center. It is less about us and more about them,” Jones said. “The students share the stories behind their artwork and reflect on what leadership means to them. This is what Big Shoulders Fund is all about: giving students the confidence to step forward and lead.”

Overall, 152 students participated in the Junior Leadership Journey program. Since the inaugural Art Gala last year, Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana and its partner schools have continued to strengthen their commitment to student leadership development.

The Junior Leadership Journey is designed to help middle school students develop self-confidence, communication skills, collaboration, and leadership abilities before entering high school.

Sixth grader Richard Goshen of St. Casimir School said the program transformed his understanding of leadership.

“At first, I thought leadership was just about being in charge or standing your ground,” Goshen said. “As I went through the program, I realized it’s also about building up others as you go. It’s about understanding people and finding ways to make yourself and those around you better.”

Tristan Andreev, a sixth grader at Queen of All Saints School, credits the Junior Leadership Journey with helping him become more confident, while encouraging collaboration among his classmates.

“The program has helped me learn about cooperation and leadership,” Andreev said. “Looking at everyone’s artwork, they all look great while each piece tells a different story. My project is called Hope, and it represents peace and relaxation.”

Nancy Repay, principal at St. John Bosco School, has already seen the change in growth, leadership, and kindness for the students from her school.

“This is our first year participating in the program and we’ve already seen growth academically, socially, and emotionally,” Repay said. “It helps students develop healthy habits and become outstanding citizens. Big Shoulders Fund staff have supported us immensely, providing coaching and consistently asking how they can help our students succeed.”

Matt Chico, principal at St. Casimir School, appreciates how the event highlights student creativity while fostering leadership and collaboration.

“This event is the result of the strong partnership between us and Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana. It gives students an opportunity to develop their leadership skills, showcase their talent, and engage in team building exercises,” said Chico.

Chico also values the opportunity for students from different schools to connect through the program.

“We’re all here together today,” Chico said. “It helps us strengthen that partnership with some of our sister schools within the Diocese of Gary.”

Kim Gondeck, principal at Queen of All Saints School, views the Art Gala as a meaningful growth opportunity for students.

“They’re all dressed up and excited to see everything come into fruition,” Gondeck said. “As a principal, there are challenges every day, but this is one of those moments you can simply cherish. You can see the culmination of work that’s been done over the year by these students, and they’re proud to share what they’ve accomplished.”

Additionally, Gondeck is thrilled to see how each student has uplifted one another in their work.

“They’re congratulating one another and sharing encouraging feedback. That positive communication piece can sometimes get lost today, so it’s wonderful to see our students uplifting each other and celebrating one another’s success.”

For Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana is committed to creating opportunities for educational growth and community engagement. The Art Gala provided students with a platform to discuss their work, reflect on their leadership journeys, and appreciate the creativity of their peers.

“It helps the students feel more confident in discussing their art and sharing their ideas,” Jones said. “Some students may have been hesitant to speak about their work at first, but through practice and encouragement, they find their voice. We’re here to give them opportunities to lead and support the person next to them.”

For more information on the Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana and its student leadership programs, you can visit bigshouldersfund.org/northwest-indiana.

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More than 20 local artists and musicians were featured throughout downtown businesses and venues, giving attendees the opportunity to experience artwork, live performances, and interactive community activities while exploring Elkhart’s downtown district.

The seasonal kickoff marked the return of one of downtown Elkhart’s most anticipated recurring summer events. Held on the last Wednesday of each month from May through September, Art Walk encourages residents to support local artists and celebrate in the heart of the city.

“It means a lot to us, especially at the Parks Department, that this event continues to grow year after year. It means that we get to connect with more people downtown, exposing people to art and music that they’ve not seen before. It gets everybody in a local place to have a really good time,” said Mandi Null, volunteer coordinator and event assistant for the Elkhart City Parks Department.

The event also highlighted the growing collaboration between local organizations and downtown businesses to create engaging experiences for the community.

“This event is an opportunity for artists and musicians to expose people to their music, their craft, and the things they want to sell. It also educates people on how they make the things they make, or what it sounds like when you’re watching a guitar being played,” said Null.

Live music added energy throughout the downtown area all night long. Buddy Pearson performed on the Main Stage at Civic Plaza, while additional performances by Mark Gaut, Mark Darnell, and Doug Harsch entertained crowds at locations throughout downtown.

Community art projects and hands-on activities also gave guests of all ages opportunities to participate in the evening’s festivities.

“We’re super intentional with our programming during the Art Walk, showcasing live art, chalk art, and body paint. We are being selective and giving exposure to artists who only do smaller venues. This event gives them an opportunity to be seen by a bigger crowd,” said Null.

As the main event came to a close, many attendees continued the celebration during the Art Walk After Hours at Central Green. Hosted by The Lerner Theatre, the after-hours event took place from 7:30–9 p.m. and featured a live performance by Rockology.

The extended programming helped continue the evening’s momentum, while giving visitors another opportunity to enjoy live entertainment in downtown Elkhart. The continued success of the Art Walk reflects the strong community support for arts and culture programming throughout the community.

“The Art Walk is important to downtown Elkhart because this community is so artistic and beautifully expressed through art and music. It’s an avenue that people don’t always get the opportunity to be involved in during their schooling,” Null said. “When they’re able to see something like the Art Walk, it gives them a chance to connect with other artists and people like them; it builds a stronger artistic community.”

The 2026 Art Walk season will continue throughout the summer and early fall, with additional events scheduled for June 24, July 29, August 26, and September 30. Each Art Walk will feature rotating artists, musicians, art displays, and community-centered experiences throughout downtown Elkhart.

“People can look forward to amazing music. We put together a great lineup this season. They can also look forward to the Art Walk After Hours on Central Green. That is being put on in partnership with the Lerner Theatre,” said Null. “We’ll have beautiful artists down there and great food and drink options. It’ll be an elevated experience for the Art Walk.”

Community members interested in learning more about future Art Walk dates and additional programming can visit Elkhart Parks & Recreation for schedules, updates, and event information.

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Trzyna, a graduate of University of Illinois Chicago with a degree in studio arts, spent more than 20 years operating a successful graphic design business while continuing to develop her personal work in the fine arts. In 2024, she closed her design business to pursue her studio practice full time. Since 2014, Trzyna has maintained a studio at the Union Street Gallery, a professional artists’ cooperative where she keeps regular studio hours and engages with a vibrant community of fellow artists.

Trzyna’s work explores form, color, and light, drawing inspiration from the natural world. Many of her paintings focus on landscapes, trees, and gardens, created both en plein air and from sketches and photographs gathered during walks. Her still-life compositions emphasize visual richness through color and texture, often featuring organic forms paired with colorful, patterned fabrics.

More recently, Trzyna has incorporated relief printmaking into her studio practice. Her linocut prints investigate line, composition, structure, and color, offering a different creative approach from painting. Reflecting her experimental and playful spirit in the studio, many of these prints are produced as variable open editions, with each piece altered through hand coloring, collage, or both.

Across all media, Trzyna’s work seeks to capture a fleeting moment or mood through the expressive interplay of color, form, and texture.

An artist reception will be held in the gallery on Tuesday, March 31, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., offering visitors an opportunity to meet the artist and learn more about her work.

The Dorothea Thiel Gallery is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The gallery is closed on weekends and holidays. All exhibitions and receptions are free and open to the public.

For additional information, please contact Jewlya Sturtevant at jsturtevant@ssc.edu.

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The semester opens with the Regional High School Student Art Exhibition and the Regional High School Teacher Art Exhibition, on view February 2–26. These exhibitions celebrate the creativity, talent, and dedication of regional high schools. Both shows will conclude with a joint reception on Thursday, February 26, from 6:00–7:00 p.m., and the community is warmly invited to attend and celebrate the artistic accomplishments of local students and educators.

Spring programming continues with compelling solo exhibitions, including Dawn Holder: What We Gathered (February 2–April 16) in the Sculpture & New Media Gallery and Mary Ann Trzyna: Earthly Delights (March 9–April 16) in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery.

Also featured is Marina Kuchinski: Close to the Ground, on view March 9–May 7 in the Lee E. Dulgar Gallery. This exhibition will be accompanied by an artist demonstration and reception on April 15. The demonstration will take place in the Ceramics Studio (Room 4348), where the artist will share their process of forming an animal head using the solid clay construction method. This event is open to all and offers a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind the exhibited works.

The semester concludes with the Biannual Student Art Showcase, held May4–7, highlighting outstanding artwork by SSC students across multiple gallery spaces.

All exhibitions and related events are free and open to the public. For gallery hours and additional information, visit https://www.ssc.edu/services/art-galleries/.

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𝗛𝗢𝗪 𝗧𝗢 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗣𝗔𝗧𝗘

• Download the logo contest form by visiting crownpoint.info/stpats
• Design a sham-rockin’ logo
• Submit your entry by Feb. 17 in person at the Crown Point Library, 122 N. Main St., the PACE Office on the second floor of Bulldog Park or mail it to Bulldog Park, 183 S. West St., Crown Point, IN 46307.

𝘞𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘥𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩 𝘊𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘊𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘪𝘭 𝘮𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘐𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴, 𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘪𝘭 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴@𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘯𝘱𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘵.𝘪𝘯.𝘨𝘰𝘷.

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The annual festival began as a way to showcase the incredible talent walking the halls of the Valparaiso Community Schools system. From visual artists to musicians in every genre, “This Is Our Story” lets the community see for themselves the hard work of their students. With a long tenure within the school system, “This Is Our Story” has become a beloved holiday tradition for many in Valparaiso and beyond.

“Well, it’s fantastic to get everybody together supporting the arts and the incredible talents of the kids. Just nice community building,” Principal of Cooks Corners Elementary Mike Rayson said.

The main event of the festival is the huge concert featuring students of all ages, from fourth graders to seniors. The students work together to play an enchanting holiday setlist. Student performers from the choir, ensemble band, orchestra, jazz band, and more get the opportunity to celebrate with their fellow musicians in one of the most collaborative events of the year.

“It’s quite like nothing else. I’ve been in other communities, and nobody else does anything like this. It’s pretty unique, and the kids are fantastic when they all come together,” Rayson said.

In addition to the musical performances, “This Is Our Story” also has an art gallery for attendees to explore composed of student pieces. Self-portraits, pastoral landscapes, still lifes – student creativity was on full display. 

“It’s a compilation of student artwork from across the district. It represents a ton of time, energy, and passion and it’s pretty brave of the kids to put their artwork out there for the world to see,” Rayson said. 

Many students participate in their first “This Is Our Story” event while still in elementary school, continuing the tradition as they progress through their academic career. Beyond letting the students perform for their community, “This Is Our Story” encourages young artists to continue honing their craft through celebrating success. It’s important that students get the feedback these live performances provide and, more importantly, that they have fun seeing their hard work pay off every year.

“I think this can help other kids because it’s a great idea. It’s a great opportunity for kids of other grades to come together and sing together,” Student Olivia Lucas said.

As another successful holiday festival comes to a close, the entire school system is already preparing for next year’s fun events. Take a look at Valparaiso Community Schools’ Facebook page to stay up to date on everything happening in the school system.

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