ART GALLERY

BEYOND THE FENCELINE

COMING SOON- Summer 2026

Sharing the Stories of Rural Impact-

Our upcoming art gallery will provide a simple, welcoming space dedicated to displaying wall art from local artists, organizations, and community groups. Exhibits will rotate monthly, giving each participant a one-month period to showcase their work. Artists are responsible for framing and properly preparing their pieces for hanging. To participate, individuals must complete a gallery agreement, which includes a liability waiver and a $10 application fee to help support the cost of hosting our "Artist Spotlight" events.

Interested parties are encouraged to complete the form below to be added to the gallery display list. Artists and groups will be contacted in the order submissions are received as space becomes available in the monthly rotation.

#BeyondTheFenceline

Exhibit Liability Agreement

This activity is made possible by the Indiana Arts Commission, which receives support from the State of Indiana. In partnerhip with the Indiana Arts Commission, we are excited to introduce a new community art gallery that will feature a monthly rotating exhibit highlighting the creativity of local artists and community groups. Located along our front hallway and designed with a wall-mounted hanging system, this modest but meaningful display space will provide ongoing opportunities for artists to showcase their work in a welcoming and accessible environment. In addition to the rotating exhibits, the gallery will include artist spotlight events, offering participants a chance to be recognized for their contributions while engaging with the community. Artists will also have the opportunity to share their techniques, creative processes, and skills, fostering connection, learning, and appreciation for the arts throughout our community.

This activity is made possible in part by the Indiana Arts Commission, which receives support from the State of Indiana.

GALLERY POLICY:

Artwork Guidelines: All artwork must be suitable for a public, community-based setting. Pieces must be securely framed and ready to hang using appropriate hardware compatible with the Walker Display wall hanging system. Weight and size must fall within the system's specified limits.

Sales Policy: Artwork displayed in the gallery is for exhibition only and shall not be priced or sold.

Drop-Off & Pick-Up: Artists will be contacted with designated drop-off and pick-up dates and times. All artwork must be delivered and removed within those timeframes unless prior arrangements are made.

Liability: While care will be taken in handling and displaying all artwork, pieces are exhibited at the artist's own risk. A signed gallery agreement, including a liability waiver, is required prior to participation.

Content Standards: Artwork must be appropriate for all audiences and respectful of the diverse community we serve.

Installation: Artwork must arrive ready to hang. Staff will install all pieces using the Walker Display system to ensure consistency and safety.

Contact Information: For questions or additional information, please contact the Executive Director, Trisha Drain 219-285-2246 director@newtoncountycommunityservices.org

Newton County Community Services Announces New Community Art Gallery, "Beyond the Fencepost," Coming Summer 2026

Beyond the Fencepost: Bringing Art and Community Together in Newton County

At Newton County Community Services, we believe quality of life extends beyond meeting basic needs. While our work is often associated with transportation, senior nutrition, and food assistance, creating opportunities for connection, creativity, and community engagement is equally important to building healthy and vibrant rural communities.

That is why we are excited to announce the launch of Beyond the Fencepost, a new community art gallery opening in Summer 2026.

Made possible through support from the Indiana Arts Commission, the gallery will provide a dedicated space for local artists, community organizations, schools, and creative groups to share their work with the public. Located in the front hallway of Newton County Community Services, the gallery will feature professionally displayed wall art through a monthly rotating exhibition, ensuring new artists and fresh perspectives are continually showcased throughout the year.

While modest in size, the gallery represents something much larger: an opportunity to celebrate creativity, tell local stories, and create meaningful connections through art.

More Than a Gallery

Beyond the Fencepost is designed to be more than a place to hang pictures. Each month, one artist or organization will be featured through a special Artist Spotlight event. These public showings will invite community members to meet the featured artist, learn about their inspiration and creative process, and gain insight into the techniques and skills behind their work.

These gatherings are intended to foster conversation, encourage appreciation for the arts, and provide opportunities for residents of all ages to connect with local talent. Whether someone is an experienced artist, an aspiring creator, or simply someone who enjoys beautiful things, we hope these events will inspire creativity and strengthen community ties.

Investing in Quality of Life

Access to arts and culture can sometimes be limited in rural communities. By creating a space where artists can share their talents and residents can experience new forms of expression, we hope to enrich everyday life and provide opportunities for learning, reflection, and connection.

Art has the unique ability to bring people together. It captures memories, preserves traditions, celebrates diversity, and creates spaces for conversation. Through Beyond the Fencepost, we hope to create an environment where creativity is valued and where local artists are recognized for the important role they play in making our communities stronger.

Thank You to the Indiana Arts Commission

This activity is made possible in part by the Indiana Arts Commission, which receives support from the State of Indiana.

Public investment in the arts helps ensure that communities of all sizes have access to cultural experiences that improve quality of life and strengthen community identity. We are grateful for this support and excited to bring new opportunities for artistic expression to Newton County.

Applications are currently being accepted for artists and community groups interested in exhibiting. Participants will be contacted in the order applications are received, and exhibits will rotate monthly.

We look forward to welcoming our first artists and inviting the community to experience creativity that reaches far beyond the fencepost.