INDIANAPOLIS — More local artists are adding their talents to a program that promotes reading. Thursday the 'Public Collection' unveiled two new book share stations.
The station at Dr. MLK Jr. Park was designed by artist Atsu Kpotufe. It's called 'Mind Sails,' and it reflects how books can transport readers across the globe or into the depths of their imagination.
It also is a reminder of our country's immigrant history and how most Americans' ancestors came to this land by boat — whether by choice or not.
The second new station is downtown at The Athenaeum. It was designed by the artists Owens and Crawley and is called 'Fissure.'
The history of The Athenaeum inspired it as a social and community center for German immigrants.
Public Collection founder Rachel Simon joined the artists at Thursday's unveilings.
"My goal has always been to create more access to books and art by removing social barriers," Simon said. "Strengthening communities and highlighting important conversations was always the hope. And I think that hope is being realized with the two latest installations that we are presenting today. Both honor the immigrant experience and highlight the value of education and the continued pursuit of social justice."
The newest book stations bring the total number of the temporary installations to 12, all designed by Indiana-based artists.
The Public Collection launched in 2014. It invites all people to engage with visual arts and to borrow and return books at their leisure and at no cost.
More than 90,000 books have been distributed in the last five years.
