The following is a press release written by Jeni Waters for the IU Center for Rural Engagement.
The public is invited to a showcase of the 2026 Rural Placemaking Studio’s final design concepts on Tuesday, Aug. 25, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Maxwell Hall, 750 E. Kirkwood Ave., Bloomington, Ind., 47405.
Students from the IU Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture + Design will present their final designs for community-driven projects developed in partnership with 15 rural Indiana communities. Presentations will include concepts for public art, signage, trails, public spaces, and historic building revitalization.
The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Attendees should RSVP online at go.iu.edu/26rpsopenhouse.
The Rural Placemaking Studio brings together IU faculty and students with rural community leaders and residents to create practical design solutions that strengthen public spaces and support community priorities across Indiana. Through these partnerships, students gain hands-on experience as they work with community partners to advance locally identified projects and long-term placemaking goals.
Community partners include Community Action Leading Loogootee in Martin County, City of Salem in Washington County, Eastern Greene Schools in Greene County, Decatur County Community Garden, Heartland Artists in Marshall County, the University of Southern Indiana’s Historic New Harmony in Posey County, Blue River Community Foundation and Marietta Fire Station in Shelby County, Blue River Community Foundation and Blue River Trail in Shelby County, Heart of Lebanon in Boone County, City of Bluffton in Wells County, Sisters of St. Benedict of Ferdinand in Dubois County, Cannelton Grows Inc. in Perry County, Clarksville Historic Preservation Commission in Clark County, Heart of Jasper in Dubois County, and Main Street Greencastle in Putnam County.
The event is presented by the IU Center for Rural Engagement and the IU Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture + Design.
Those interested in learning about upcoming Rural Placemaking Studio opportunities and events can sign up for the Center for Rural Engagement’s monthly newsletter at rural.indiana.edu/news.
