Discover the Revitalizing and Innovative Cultural Gems of South Bend, IN

South Bend, IN may not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking about cultural hotspots in America. However, this small Midwestern town has a lot to offer for adventurous travelers willing to explore its hidden artistic corners.

One such gem is The Birdsell Project (107 S Taylor St), an artist residency program housed in a historic mansion on the south side of town. The project invites artists from around the world to come live and work in South Bend for up to eight weeks at a time. Visits can be arranged by appointment only and include tours of both past works as well as current projects.

Another unique space worth visiting is Casa Del Vago (2103 Miami St). Located on a deadend street near downtown South Bend, this former doctors office serves as studio space for local artists Amalia Petsche and Tony Sparrow who create paintings, murals, sculptures and mixed media installations that fill every inch of their home gallery. Guests are welcome during weekly open studio hours or by appointment.

The Morris Performing Arts Center (211 N Michigan St) is perhaps one of the more wellknown venues in South Bend but it still deserves mention here due to its stunning architecture inside and out. Originally built in 1922 as part of lavish vaudeville circuit touring days before television got too big ,Mojo Nixon opened there once (Bring Back Mojo Nixon!),the theater was restored years later after falling into disrepair under various owners hands . Waterford crystal chandeliers hang from soaring ceilings while gilded plasterwork gleams throughout much like it did over 100 years ago.The majestic building now hosts performances ranging from Broadway musicals like Hamilton (soon!)to concerts featuring classical music legends or indie rock stars. Its a mustsee oasis amidst other focus points which dot downtown.

In terms of visual art, the South Bend Museum of Art (120 S Saint Joseph St) is a hidden gem. Located in the Century Center along the banks of the St. Joseph River, this small museum features contemporary Midwest artwork and regularly changing exhibits that highlight artists from around Indiana and neighboring states.

Finally, for those interested in history or architecture , The Oliver Mansion(808 W Washington Ave) located on West Washington Street. Built by industrialist J.D.Oliver before he died (lo these many decades ago),its a Gothic Revival masterpiece with carved woodwork,painted frescoes, ornate parquet floors throughout every room,and so much more.A full tour takes about 45 minutes to explore and youll want to see it all twice at least.

South Bend may not be known as an artistic hub but its residents have turned it into one with their collaborative energy,fierce commitment,and innovation.I highly recommend venturing out to discover these undertheradar gems that reveal this towns revitalizing and diverse cultural landscape.

Websites:

The Birdsell Project: https://www.thebirdsellproject.com/

Casa Del Vago: http://www.casadelvago.com/

Morris Performing Arts Center: https://morriscenter.org/

South Bend Museum of Art: https://southbendart.org/

The Oliver Mansion: https://historymuseumsb.org/visit/theolivermansion/