City of Shelbyville announces grant awards from Indiana Arts Commission

The City of Shelbyville has announced two local organizations that have been awarded grants from the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC).

The Blue River Community Foundation and the Shelby County Players have received funding to enhance their contributions to the arts in the community.

The Blue River Community Foundation has been awarded $4,000 to support the final gnomon installation for the sundial project at the Blue River Trailhead (photo). This initiative is part of the foundation’s broader efforts to enrich public spaces and provide educational and cultural benefits to the residents of Shelbyville.

“We are thrilled to start the design process of a gnomon to be installed at the Blue River Trailhead located off of (State Road 9) in Shelbyville to create an oversized sundial,” said Laura Land, Community Engagement Officer and Project Lead for Blue River Community Foundation, in a media release. “This sculptural shadow casting device will offer a unique fusion of art and function. Surface art which contains marks for the time of day was installed on May 21, 2024 and will serve as the foundation for the sundial.”

Shelby County Players has been granted $14,548 to fund a new civic theatre (rendering above). The grant will enable the company to enhance performances and expand its reach within the community, providing a state-of-the-art venue for local talent.

“These grants are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our local organizations,” said Shelbyville Mayor Scott Furgeson in a media release. “The Blue River Community Foundation and the Shelby County Players play a crucial role in making Shelbyville a dynamic and culturally rich community. We are excited to see these projects come to life and continue to elevate the arts in our city.”

The Indiana Arts Commission supports community development through arts and creativity. By funding local projects, the IAC helps to ensure the arts and culture remain integral to the quality of life in Indiana communities.

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