MuncieArts, Ivy Tech, and MadJax to Reveal Revamped ‘Designed by the Public’ Installation on June 18

Community to also celebrate MuncieArts’ 15th Birthday

By Tania Said—

MUNCIE, IN — The Muncie Arts and Culture Council (MuncieArts), in partnership with Ivy Tech Community College and MadJax Maker Force, is excited to announce the revitalization of the “Designed by the Public” installations at the Ivy Tech Fisher Building Plaza and MadJax Maker Force.

A public celebration of the revitalized “Designed by the Public” installation will take place on Thursday, June 18. Community members are invited to visit the Ivy Tech John and Janice Fisher Building Plaza (345 S. High Street, Muncie) from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and enjoy community activities and friendly games of corn hole. Continue the celebration at MadJax Maker Force (515 E. Main Street) during Third Thursday with Muncie Makers Market from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Enjoy refreshments at both locations to celebrate MuncieArts 15th birthday. Community members are invited to explore the refreshed “Designed by the Public,” connect with local creatives, and celebrate the power of public art in Muncie.

Originally created by internationally recognized architecture firm Tatiana Bilbao ESTUDIO of Mexico City, the spaces have now been refreshed and updated by local artist Aaron Nicholson, bringing new energy and local artistic vision to the public gathering areas.

The redesigned spaces continue the original project’s mission of creating vibrant, community-centered environments that encourage creativity, connection, and public engagement. Nicholson’s updates introduce bold new visual elements while honoring the original spirit of the installations.

“We’re thrilled to partner with MuncieArts to connect public art throughout downtown Muncie,” shared Carly Acree-King, Executive Director of MadJax Maker Force. “Public art and creative placemaking help create a sense of place, and that’s important at MadJax.”

Jeffrey D. Scott, Chancellor of Ivy Tech Community College Muncie added, “The Fisher Building Plaza is an important gathering place for our students and the broader community. This revitalization demonstrates the power of partnerships and the role the arts play in creating inspiring public spaces.”

To celebrate the revitalized spaces and the 15th birthday of MuncieArts, refreshments will be provided by MuncieArts during the public celebration event. Community members are invited to experience the refreshed installations, connect with local creatives, and celebrate the continued growth of arts and culture in Muncie.

Tania Said, executive director of the Muncie Arts and Culture Council, shared, “As MuncieArts celebrates 15 years of serving our community, it feels especially meaningful to celebrate through a project like “Designed by the Public”—one that reflects creativity, collaboration, and community voice. These spaces remind us that public art belongs to everyone and that design can bring people together in inspiring and lasting ways.”

The revitalized “Designed by the Public” is now open to the public at the Ivy Tech Fisher Building Plaza and the MadJax courtyard in downtown Muncie.

“Designed by the Public” was part of Exhibit Columbus 2023 before it was donated to MuncieArts.

About MuncieArts

Celebrating 15 years of championing arts experiences, public art, and a thriving community of artists and allies to impact economic growth, sustainable communities, and health and wellness. As the City of Muncie’s designated arts partner since 2015, MuncieArts works to strengthen the city through creativity, collaboration,and cultural leadership. For more information about the Muncie Arts and Culture Council and its programs, visit www.munciearts.org or follow @MuncieArts on social media.

About MadJax

MadJax is a community makerspace and innovation hub in downtown Muncie that supports artists, entrepreneurs, and creatives through collaborative workspaces, programming, and public engagement opportunities.

About Ivy Tech Muncie

Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana’s largest public postsecondary institution and the nation’s largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state’s engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The college provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor’s degree.