Carmel artists’ work to be showcased at the Statehouse

The work of Carmel artists Aren Straiger (left) and Jody Bruns (right) will be featured in the Statehouse as part of a celebration of Women’s History Month. (Photos provided)

Artwork by two Carmel artists will soon be displayed at the Statehouse, according to State Reps. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel) and Jerry Torr (R-Carmel).

Jody Bruns and Aren Straiger were selected to have their artwork decorate the Statehouse as part of Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch’s Hoosier Women Artists initiative.

“These artists are two great examples of the talent found across our community,” Schaibley said. “Their creations represent the Hoosier experience, and having them displayed in the Statehouse is a great way to bring a piece of home to the capitol.”

“Supporting the arts fosters creativity and innovation in many aspects of life,” Torr said. “Programs like the Hoosier Women Artists initiative not only bring people together, but also create opportunities to learn new skills and share stories. Congratulations to both of these artists.”

Bruns’ work, titled “On a Winter’s Day,” is a wood-cut reduction print and will be displayed in the lieutenant governor’s office.

“I think it’s really an honor they’re supporting women artists and celebrating women’s art in the state of Indiana,” Bruns said. “So the fact that it will get to hang here and so many people will get to see it will maybe inspire them to do their own artwork.”

Straiger’s piece, titled “Winged Woman,” is a linoleum-cut reduction print and will hang in Secretary of State Connie Lawson’s office.

“Just to be represented among this talented group of women is a huge honor,” Straiger said.

They and other artists were honored at a Statehouse ceremony as part of Women’s History Month.