Lotus' Gallery Walk exhibits Indiana art

Professional artistic training is merely a suggestion if you're interested in becoming a renowned artist -- at least according to Indianapolis-based artist Jerome Neal. \nNeal embodies this sentiment by continuing the practice of "outsider art," or art that is produced by self-taught artists outside the traditional artistic mainstream. Neil's work will be on display during this year's Gallery Walk as part of the 2006 Lotus Festival this weekend.\nLinda Wisler, director of the VSA of Indiana enRoute Gallery in Indianapolis, is a strong advocate of artists like Neal. \n"I think what makes outsider artwork so important is that it cannot be taught," Wisler said. "Outsider art comes from such a raw, deep, personal place, and ... outsider artists are so prolific because they are guided or driven from a voice most of us repress."\nNeal's paintings will be displayed at the Buskirk-Chumley Theatre until Oct. 31. The artist will be at a meet-and-greet reception from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday at the theater. The events are free and open to the public.\nAshley Robison is one of the main coordinators for this year's Gallery Walk event. \n"One main difference between Jerome's art work and that of other mainstream artists is probably going to be the lack of a conscious decision when making his pieces," Robison said in an e-mail. "Jerome, as you can see in his show, is very flexible with his subjects and the interpretation of that." \nRobison believes Neal was a perfect pick for the exhibit.\n"Jerome's body of work fits very well with the BCT's mission when it comes to choosing artists," Robison said. "His work is very representative of Indiana folk art but maintains his own distinct style and vision. It's always a great opportunity to exhibit new styles of work to the community."\nThe extent of Bloomington's Gallery Walk won't disappoint this year, as there are nine downtown galleries within walking distance of one another. The event occurs four times a year and will hold its final walk for the year Dec. 1.\nThe other eight galleries displaying works are the Bellevue Gallery, By Hand Gallery, Fossil Rain, Gallery North on the Square, John Waldron Arts Center Galleries, Prima Gallery, TOP Gallery and Wandering Turtle Art Gallery & Gifts.\nBloomingfood's Theater Café will provide refreshments Neal's meet-and-greet reception. \nFor more information on Neal's exhibit, call 323-3020.