INDIANAPOLIS, IN.- Hoosiers are being introduced to a special body of artwork this year during the 200 Years of Indiana Art: A Cultural Legacy exhibition, March 19 through October 2 at the Indiana State Museum.

The exhibit is comprised of more than 100 two- and three-dimensional works of art. Works by important early Indiana artists provide a historical perspective. Additional works include modern and contemporary pieces illustrating the development of the visual arts in Indiana, showcasing the immense talent and diversity associated with the state.

“The Indiana State Museum is delighted to host this important exhibition showcasing the tremendous artistic talent associated with the state. Working with artists, collectors and institutions statewide, we’ve assembled a collection of works that illustrate the evolution and influence of the visual arts throughout our 200-year history,” said Mark Ruschman, chief curator of fine art.

The show has been split between the museum’s Ford and NiSource galleries located on Level 3 of the museum. The first 100 years of Indiana art has be installed in NiSource and the second 100 years in Ford.

Presented in chronological order, the NiSource display includes paintings by noted early Indiana Pioneer Painters [19th century] George Winter, Jacob Cox and Marcus Mote. Moving forward, T.C. Steele and his fellow Hoosier Group are prominently featured alongside other important artists from across the state. Additional works by Janet Scudder, William Edouard Scott, Ada Shulz, Susan McCord, Frank Hohenberger and their contemporaries, have been included.

The Ford Gallery features works from the 1930’s until present day including Robert Indiana, Alma Eikerman, David Smith, George Rickey, Kay Rosen and Richard Peeler. While many familiar names are featured, the gallery also showcases the talents of artists that are less well known. The exhibition reflects the state’s changing population and ethnic diversity. In addition to traditional two- and three-dimensional works in the galleries, new media, site-specific and installation-based works are featured in the museum’s public areas and on the museum grounds.

“Among our many offerings, we are thrilled to host Anila Agha’s 2014 ArtPrize winning gallery installation Intersections. It will be the first time the piece has been shown in Indiana since winning the international art competition’s top honor. We’ve constructed a custom gallery on the first floor to accommodate the piece,” added Ruschman.