Will Vawter Juried Exhibition and Art Sale

About the Event

Step into the heart of artistic inspiration at the Will Vawter Juried Exhibition and Art Sale, a beloved annual celebration of Indiana's creative spirit in downtown Greenfield. This juried showcase honors legendary local artist Will Vawter, whose evocative paintings captured the soul of rural Hoosier life, drawing together talented artists from across the state to display stunning two-dimensional works in oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, drawing, textiles, and mixed media. What makes it truly special is the intimate blend of high-quality gallery art, live artist meet-and-greets, hands-on art-making, and gentle live music that fills the air with creativity and community warmth. Attendees flock here for the thrill of discovering unique, for-sale pieces—many award-winning with over $5,000 in prizes—while soaking in a vibe that's equal parts sophisticated gallery opening and friendly neighborhood gathering. Whether you're an art collector, aspiring creator, or simply love supporting local talent, this event promises inspiration, connection, and that special Hancock County charm that leaves you buzzing with ideas. ## The Surrounding Area
Nestled in charming Greenfield, Hancock County, just east of Indianapolis, this event unfolds in the vibrant downtown core, where tree-lined streets and historic brick buildings create a welcoming backdrop. Greenfield buzzes with small-town pride, home to the birthplace of poet James Whitcomb Riley—Vawter's longtime collaborator—now a delightful museum worth a visit. Stroll Depot Street Park to see the striking bronze statue of Vawter at his easel, a tribute to his legacy unveiled in recent years. Nearby attractions include the Hancock County Courthouse, with its classic architecture, and easy day trips to Brown County, where Vawter once painted the rolling hills. Dining shines with cozy spots like farm-to-table eateries, craft breweries pouring local IPAs, and classic diners serving hearty Hoosier comfort food—think tenderloin sandwiches and fresh pies. This slice of Indiana offers a perfect mix of peaceful countryside beauty, rich cultural heritage, and modern conveniences, making it an ideal weekend escape for art lovers seeking authentic Midwestern hospitality. ## Activities & Attractions
Dive into a weekend packed with creative delights at the exhibition, hosted at the inviting Twenty North Gallery. Browse an impressive array of original artworks—all for sale—carefully juried for quality and freshness, featuring pieces no larger than 48 inches and created within the last three years. Meet talented Indiana artists during Friday's reception, chat about their inspirations, and perhaps snag a one-of-a-kind piece straight from the source. Saturday brings even more fun: enjoy soothing live music that complements the artwork, participate in interactive art-making workshops where you can try your hand at painting or drawing, and witness award presentations celebrating the best in show. The gallery atmosphere hums with energy as visitors mingle, sip refreshments, and discover hidden gems among textiles, landscapes, and bold mixed-media creations. No photography or sculptures here—just pure, tactile two-dimensional beauty that sparks joy and conversation. ## Schedule & Logistics
Mark your calendars for June 12-13, 2026, with the exhibition remaining on view and available for purchase through July 25 at Twenty North Gallery in downtown Greenfield. Kick off Friday, June 12, with the exciting Meet the Artists reception from 6:30-8:30pm—a perfect evening to connect with creators over light bites and drinks. On Saturday, June 13, arrive anytime during open hours to explore the full show, catch live music performances, join art-making events, and see awards handed out amid the buzz of buyers and browsers. Admission is free and open to all, making it family-friendly and accessible. Parking is plentiful in downtown lots and street spaces, with everything walkable in this compact area. Drop by early for the best selection, and plan to linger—the gallery at 20-A North State Street welcomes browsers through the extended display period. ## History & Heritage
Rooted in Greenfield's artistic soul, the Will Vawter Juried Exhibition pays homage to John William "Will" Vawter, born in 1871 and a hometown hero who immortalized rural Indiana through his illustrations and paintings. By age nine, he called Greenfield home, later illustrating for local papers and collaborating with poet James Whitcomb Riley on iconic works, blending Greenfield's literary and visual worlds. Vawter's career soared in Brown County's art colony from 1909, where he painted landscapes exhibited in Indianapolis and Chicago, co-founding the Brown County Art Gallery Association in 1926. He passed in 1941, buried back in Greenfield, his legacy enduring. Hancock County Arts, a nonprofit founded in 1996 to nurture visual, performing, and literary arts, launched this juried show in 1999 to honor him. Now in its 27th year by 2026, it has grown into a cornerstone event, fostering a thriving arts scene with pop-up shows, public art, and community support—drawing crowds that celebrate Vawter's vision of a vibrant cultural Hancock County.