PHOTO CREDIT: The White River, by Susan Ryan Marsh, 1942. Photo courtesy of the Minnetrista Heritage Collection.
Muncie’s long tradition of supporting the arts began in the 19th century. In the years between the Civil War and the gas boom, boosters added entertainment venues in downtown Muncie, such as the original Wysor Opera House. Early efforts to establish a more formal arts community began with the Art Club in 1880. As the gas boom brought enormous wealth into Muncie, patrons began sponsoring renowned artists like the Hoosier Group painter, J. Ottis Adams. Adams lived briefly in Muncie in 1876 and, after studying in Europe for several years, returned to the Magic City in 1887 and opened the Muncie Art School. The school produced several local talents including Winifred Brady Adams, Lola St. John, and Susan Ryan Marsh.
As the 20th century progressed, Muncie added new playhouses and concert halls along with popular entertainment venues such as vaudeville and movie theaters. Artists formed the Art Students’ League, the Muncie Art Association, and the Kallista Art Club at Ball State University. In 1935, the college opened a new Art Building, known today as the David Owsley Museum of Art (DOMA). Muncie’s arts community thrives today, with leadership fromCornerstone Center for the Arts and the Muncie Arts and Culture Council among many others.
J. Ottis Adams
J. Ottis Adams, date unknown. Image courtesy of the Minnetrista Heritage Collection.