Before there was a cultural campus, before Fort Ben was redeveloped into the community hub it is today, there was a girl on a bike, riding up to a patch of green that is now a state park, sitting under a tree, and singing. "It was just such a spiritual place for me," says Dr. Shaila Mulholland, interim executive director of Arts for Lawrence. "I could go, ride my bike, sit beside a tree, and have time for reflection." She pauses, almost surprised by the memory herself. "I kind of forgot that, until you asked." Dr. Shaila Mulholland and her husband, Chris Brazis, recently attended an art gallery exhibit hosted by Arts for Lawrence. It's a fitting place to start, because so much of Mulholland's story, the one she's living out now at Arts for Lawrence, circles back to that same instinct … Find a quiet place, connect to something larger, and bring people into it with you. Roots in Lawrence Mulholland grew up in the Lawrence community and graduated from Lawrence North in 1997. Music was a constant presence in her life. She played piano and percussion all through school. By 15 she'd already won a piano competition and the prize was donated — $1,000 — to the Lawrence Township School Foundation. Outside of music, as a high school student, she was working at restaurants like Don Pablo's and American Bandstand, learning customer service and how to get things done efficiently and effectively. “Customer service has been a really good background to have in this new role." Finding her voice at Indiana University Mulholland headed to Indiana University (IU) Bloomington. Biology was her undergraduate degree, but her real interest — human development, and how people learn — pulled her toward education instead. She earned her master's at IU, and along the way discovered a talent she hadn't expected: Designing programs that brought people together. One of those programs, a dialogue series called Common Quest, invited students into conversations about interfaith and spiritual development. It won her awards, and it planted a seed that would define her career around the belief that people need spaces where they can be honest with each other, even about hard things. She also served as the youngest member of a 20-person national research team studying student engagement and inclusion in higher education, work that shaped her identity as, in her words, "a sociologist of education." That belief carried her to New York University for her PhD in education, with a focus on policy. While there, she was selected for a film and radio documentary training program for young women of color in New York City, run by Chica Luna Productions — an experience she still counts among her most formative, and one that helped her grow not just as a scholar but as an artist. New York, San Diego, and finding her way back home After finishing her PhD, Mulholland spent time back in Indianapolis on a dissertation fellowship from the Lumina Foundation, researching higher education in Indiana. From there, the family moved to San Diego, where Mulholland spent more than a decade, from 2009 to 2020, building her academic career at San Diego State University and National University. Even then, music stayed close. She set up a piano studio and taught lessons, something she'd first done as a teenager. "Teaching piano has always been really special," she says. "Music and art have both been something that me and my sons have been able to share together.” Art became even more integral during the years after experiencing the loss of their son and brother, AlVee. By 2020, she and her family were ready to come home — not just to Indianapolis, but specifically to Lawrence. "We just love everything Lawrence has," she says: the school system, the people, the way the community shows up for itself. Coming back also meant relearning her own hometown. New landmarks, new favorite spots in Lawrence — places like Jockamo Pizza, Café Audrey, Moo & Loo’s Frozen Treats, the library that wasn't there when she left, and the cultural campus now anchoring Fort Ben. Stepping into the role Mulholland quickly reconnected with the community, including a return to the Lawrence Township School Foundation as a board member, being elected in 2024 to serve on the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township School Board, and serving as a board member for Arts for Lawrence. When the opportunity came to step into the interim executive director role at Arts for Lawrence — after years of watching the organization's impact up close, Mulholland said yes. Since taking the role, she's been fully dedicated to the day-to-day operations, including booking artists, implementing and evaluating the organization’s summer camp, organizing outdoor concerts and gallery exhibits, and standing behind the mic at community events like Fridays at the Fort to tell the Arts for Lawrence story. This summer's camp gave her one of her clearest "aha" moments yet, such as watching children try piano for the first time. "The magic that happens when they get their five fingers to play a little melody, when they’ve never done that before, is really cool," she says. Mulholland also saw something she didn't expect … how quickly art dissolved the usual social categories kids get sorted into. "It just got them together and close," she says. That same instinct … using art to open something up in people … is what she keeps coming back to when she talks about why this work matters right now. "There's so much noise, so much instant gratification," she says. "Taking a pause, learning to listen … that's a different muscle. And if we don't take time to acknowledge the pain people are going through, we can't really help them find another path." What's next? Looking a year ahead, Mulholland wants to take what's working in Arts for Lawrence's summer camp and community celebrations and stretch it across the calendar. Those options could include more classes for youth and adults, more music and art instruction, and more visiting artists like the Kenyettá Dance Company program that spent a week with campers this summer. She also wants to grow the organization's volunteer base and bring in more local partners and teaching artists, part of a broader commitment to supporting Lawrence's small businesses alongside its artists. Her seat on the MSD of Lawrence Township School Board reinforces all of it. "These enriching experiences … a music class, an art class … they're not just nice to have," she says. "They're essential. They give kids an outlet, a form of self-expression, and they support a child's resiliency." It's the same thread running through Arts for Lawrence's community events, from Juneteenth celebrations to Fridays at the Fort: honoring traditions, building unity, and giving people a reason to gather, she says. Beyond the bio Ask her what people might not know about her, and she doesn't hesitate … she plays more than piano. Percussion, xylophone — she's got a full setup at her home, including three pianos in her living and dining rooms. But mostly, she'd rather people experience Arts for Lawrence than hear her describe it. "I can talk and talk," she says, "but you just have to come and experience it firsthand." Step onto the Fort Ben campus, into the gallery or the theater, and see what she means.

Photos by Brian Atkinson Some artists don't arrive at their craft through a straight line. Brian Atkinson is one of them. And that winding path may be exactly what makes his work worth seeing. Growing up, Atkinson was already the kid skipping class to disappear into the art room. But he came from a family where college wasn't part of the conversation, so when the time came, he did what everyone around him did: He went to work as a laborer. Although he didn’t stop exploring art, Atkinson considered it more of a hobby than a potential career path. It wasn't until his mid-20s that he walked through the doors of the Herron School of Art. He was 26. Most of his classmates were 18 or 19. He went full time, then had to stop, then worked, then went part time, then finally finished … earning his degree in art education. Finding the Lane Ask Atkinson how he developed his style and he doesn't hesitate. He found it early, and he's never really left it. "I've always just been really attracted to things that have high contrast," he says. "Really dark, dark areas and really light, light areas." Add to that an eye for organic shapes — such as the skeletal reach of leafless trees, the way branches move across negative space — and bold, arresting color, and you start to understand what you're walking into when you see his work. He does take commissions, but selectively. If it doesn't fit his vision, he turns it down. "I want to enjoy doing it," he says simply. The Teacher Who Stayed an Artist Atkinson spent 30 years at Lawrence North High School — 22 as an art teacher, eight as an administrator. But he never abandoned his studio. Early on, a mentor helped him see that teaching and making didn't have to be separate lives. That mentor, sculptor and fellow Lawrence North art educator Brad Holmes, modeled what it looked like to do both. When Atkinson eventually became department chair at Lawrence North, he carried that conviction into every hire he made. "Show me what you're working on right now," he recalls telling candidates. "Don't show me what you did in college." With an assist from then new hire, Nichole Cooper, he also launched a faculty art show — an annual reminder, to students and staff alike, that the people teaching art were actually making it. But the part of teaching that mattered most to him wasn't about technique. It was about belonging. "There are a lot of kids who don't have a place in a big high school," he says. "The art department is that place." He and Holmes used to chuckle about some of the grade cards — rows of D's and F's, and then an A in art, with a note that said “a pleasure to have in class.” Those weren't charity grades. Those were kids who showed up because someone saw them. Atkinson says he still hears from many of them, who often express gratitude for their time in his class. Retirement, and Getting Back to It With the blessing and the support of his wife, Liz, Atkinson retired in June 2025. Since then, he's been painting. A lot. That dedication has resulted in a growing collection of new pieces. Most mornings, he walks his dogs, then heads to the studio. Sessions run five hours sometimes — time disappearing the way it only does when you're fully inside something. "I don't ever want it to feel like a job," he says. That's why the commissions with too many directions — combine this element, this color, this concept — don't interest him. "That feels like work to me." \He started painting exclusively in oils during COVID, after years of moving through acrylics, chalk drawings, oil pastels, clay, and even digital fine art made with Photoshop and Illustrator. Seven years into oils, he hasn't looked back. What to Expect June 2–11 When you walk into the Arts for Lawrence gallery this month, you'll see bold colors and strong contrast in works ranging from landscapes to florals and abstracts. Atkinson describes his work as something he was chasing — a feeling, a direction, a few months of inspiration gathered and put on canvas. He's thought about what art does for people, especially now. "People need an outlet," he says. "Sometimes you need to look at something and just think, I really love that. I'd love to have that in my house." Brian Atkinson's work is on display June 2–11 at Arts for Lawrence, 8920 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216

Seeking to shed its label as an art desert, especially in comparison to its Hamilton County neighbors, the City of Lawrence looks forward to opening the Fort Ben Cultural Campus, 8920 Otis Ave., Lawrence. Read the full article here.

Arts for Lawrence is a 501(c)(3) arts organization in Lawrence, Indiana, East of Indianapolis, at the former Fort Benjamin Harrison. We provide performing and visual arts programming as well as events for the community. Our mission is to connect arts and the community to inspire everyone, every day! Our Mission Our Goals, Vision & Commitment Our Events Register & Purchase Tickets Support Us Volunteer, Become A Member, Purchase a Brick PERFORMING + LITERARY ARTS Theater, Dance, and Comedy Performances, Poetry Meetings, and Classes. VISUAL ARTS Visual and Digital Art Classes, Crafts, Gallery Shows, and Art Fairs. CONCERTS & FESTIVALS Summer Concert Series, Cultural Festivals and the Fort Ben Cultural Campus. YOUTH PROGRAMS Summer Art Camp, Performances, Theater Festival, and Classes. FORT BEN CULTURAL CAMPUS Come visit the hottest Arts and Cultural destination in Central Indiana! Learn More Hours for the Musical Swings: 9 AM - 10 PM, Everyday * * Outdoor events may affect these hours Arts for Lawrence Stories & News Full Circle: Dr. Shaila Mulholland Comes Home to Lead Arts for Lawrence Social

Reserve your seat in our Theater at the Fort for an incredible performance! See our schedule and pick your favorite show. You can also donate the cost of the ticket to give an opportunity to an underserved member of our community! Calendar and Events Arts Organization For Visual Arts Center Classes and Information, click here ! Upcoming Events Halloween Theater Workshop Mon, Sep 14 Arts for Lawrence Students will design a Halloween play from scratch! Share Buy Tickets Multiple Dates 3rd Sunday Jazz Concerts Sun, Aug 16 Fort Ben Cultural Campus Join Brandon Meeks and Arts for Lawrence on the Fort Ben Cultural Campus from June to August on the 3rd Sunday, for FREE, live music. Share Details Fridays at the Fort Vendor Registration Multiple Dates Fort Ben Cultural Campus Share Buy Tickets Poets Laureate of Lawrence: AI Workshop Tue, Oct 27 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort With poet M.A. Dubbs Share RSVP Urban Line Dancing Tue, Aug 11 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort Join Arts for Lawrence and Triple Take Productions for a FREE Urban Line Dancing Class perfect for all ages and levels! Share Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Fri, Nov 13 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort A hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, and an eccentric Major-General. This musical comedy is presented by Agape Theater Company. Share Buy Tickets Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Sat, Nov 14 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort A hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, and an eccentric Major-General. This musical comedy is presented by Agape Theater Company. Share Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Sun, Nov 22 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort A hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, and an eccentric Major-General. This musical comedy is presented by Agape Theater Company. Share Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Sun, Nov 15 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort A hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, and an eccentric Major-General. This musical comedy is presented by Agape Theater Company. Share Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Sat, Nov 21 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort A hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, and an eccentric Major-General. This musical comedy is presented by Agape Theater Company. Share Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Sat, Nov 14 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort A hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, and an eccentric Major-General. This musical comedy is presented by Agape Theater Company. Share Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Sat, Nov 21 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort A hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, and an eccentric Major-General. This musical comedy is presented by Agape Theater Company. Share Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Sat, Nov 14 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort A hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, and an eccentric Major-General. This musical comedy is presented by Agape Theater Company. Share Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Fri, Nov 20 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort A hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, and an eccentric Major-General. This musical comedy is presented by Agape Theater Company. Share Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Sat, Nov 14 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort A hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, and an eccentric Major-General. This musical comedy is presented by Agape Theater Company. Share Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Sat, Nov 21 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort A hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, and an eccentric Major-General. This musical comedy is presented by Agape Theater Company. Share Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Sun, Nov 15 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort A hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, and an eccentric Major-General. This musical comedy is presented by Agape Theater Company. Share Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Sun, Nov 22 Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort A hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, and an eccentric Major-General. This musical comedy is presented by Agape Theater Company. Share Details Load More Our Partners Want your business to reach a new audience? Sponsor events at Arts for Lawrence! Sponsor Now!

Reserve your seat in our Theater at the Fort for an incredible performance! See our schedule and pick your favorite show. You can also donate the cost of the ticket to give an opportunity to an underserved member of our community! Calendar of Events Arts Organization For Visual Arts Center Classes and Information, click here ! Wheel Throwing - Four Week Course Sep 14, 2026, 5:30 PM – Oct 05, 2026, 7:30 PM Arts for Lawrence Visual Arts Center, 8970 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Details Halloween Theater Workshop Sep 14, 2026, 5:30 PM – Oct 26, 2026, 7:30 PM Arts for Lawrence, 8920 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Learn more Comic Book Project (Students Ages 9-14) Oct 05, 2026, 5:30 PM – Oct 26, 2026, 6:30 PM Arts for Lawrence, 8970 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Learn more Comic Book Project (High School Students) Oct 05, 2026, 6:30 PM – Oct 26, 2026, 7:30 PM Arts for Lawrence, 8970 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Learn more Plein Air Painting Oct 07, 2026, 5:30 PM – Oct 28, 2026, 7:30 PM Arts for Lawrence Visual Arts Center, 8970 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Learn more Poets Laureate of Lawrence: AI Workshop Oct 27, 2026, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Nov 13, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:45 PM Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Nov 14, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:15 PM Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Nov 14, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Nov 15, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:15 PM Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Nov 20, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:45 PM Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Nov 21, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:15 PM Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Nov 21, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:45 PM Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Details Multiple Dates The Pirates of Penzance Nov 22, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:15 PM Arts for Lawrence's Theater at the Fort, 8920 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46216, USA More info Details Our Partners Want your business to reach a new audience? Sponsor events at Arts for Lawrence! Sponsor Now!