First Friday at the Stutz: March Open Studios
There’s something special about First Fridays at the Stutz, and March was no exception. As always, this free, all-ages event welcomed the community inside one of Indianapolis’ most vibrant creative hubs for an evening of art, connection, and discovery.
Each month, guests flow through the building to experience art where it’s made. The community steps inside working studios, meets the artists behind the work, and they take pieces home to start or grow their collections. It’s not just about viewing art. It’s about being part of the creative energy that fuels it!
While there are incredible First Friday events happening all across Indianapolis, there’s a reason the Stutz stands out. With four full floors of open studios, the building is alive with movement, conversation, and creativity at every turn. Hallways become galleries. Studios become gathering spaces. And every corner offers something new to explore.
A Building Full of Life
From the moment the doors open, the entire Stutz transforms. All four floors buzz with activity.The hallway walls are lined with artwork, doors open wide, music playing, and artists ready to welcome you in. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, there’s always something to catch your eye and spark a conversation.
Beyond the studios, several businesses throughout the building also open their doors, making it easy to turn your visit into a full evening out:
Grab a drink with friends at Turner's Bar
Eat some of the best tacos and Mexico City-inspired food in the city at Julieta Taco Shop
Browse plants, candles, and thoughtfully curated home goods at Grounded
Discover handcrafted items at Julian James Bespoke Leather Goods , featuring handmade purses, bags, wallets, and more
Hunt for the perfect trinket at Lapis Lily Market — where every item is one-of-a-kind vintage or handmade, with plenty of unique finds for your home
A Special Night Before Easel
This March First Friday carried an extra sense of excitement as it took place just one day before Easel by Penrod—a ticketed celebration supporting the arts in Indianapolis. You could feel the momentum building throughout the halls, with artists putting finishing touches on work and the community showing up in full support. If you missed it, we hope you can attend next year but be sure to get your tickets early because this event sells out. Subscribe to our email newsletter to get all the details about Stutz Artists upcoming events.
Artist Spotlight: Karen Graeser (4th Floor)
One of the highlights of the evening could be found on the 4th floor in the studio of landscape oil painter Karen Graeser.
Inspired by the American Tonalism movement, Karen’s work captures moody, atmospheric landscapes rich with shadow and subtle light. But what makes her studio especially memorable during First Friday is the chance to see her painting live, in real time.
Karen fully embraces the open studio experience—using the time not just to display finished pieces, but to actively work on new ones. Visitors get a behind-the-scenes look at her process, watching each layer come to life and gaining insight into how her landscapes evolve. It’s a reminder that art isn’t just something you hang on a wall—it’s something that’s constantly unfolding.
Snap a Photo with the Stutz’s New Iconic Mural
While you’re exploring, make your way to the 2nd floor to experience one of the Stutz’s newest highlights—a mural that blends the building’s history with its present-day creative energy.
Designed and installed by Elsey Designs LLC, this peel-and-stick installation transforms a once-blank hallway into a bold, immersive scene. The mural features a 1929 Stutz Blackhawk Roadster appearing to drive straight through the wall. It reflects the building’s automotive roots and the legacy of the Stutz name.
Make it a stop during First Friday. Whether you’re there for the art, the atmosphere, or the photo op, don’t miss your chance to step into the scene and capture a moment at the Stutz.
Make It a Monthly Tradition
If you haven’t experienced First Friday at the Stutz yet, consider this your invitation. And if you have, you already know—no two months are ever the same.
As you make your way through First Friday events across the city, be sure to stop at the Stutz every month. Come for the art, stay for the atmosphere, and leave feeling inspired.
We’ll see you next First Friday!
