ZapTown

[All photos by Kimberly Brown.]

Oranje 2009 may be over but the memories and hangovers still linger. Anyone who experienced the event will tell you that — be it seeing the bands or artists, hanging with friends or just supporting the local community — Oranje is a vital and important extension to Indianapolis’ arts community.

The interactive arts and music festival allowed contemporary artists from Indianapolis and beyond to interact with peers of all artistic styles and specialties. Over 30 musicians including bands from jazz jamsters Twin Cats to Merge recording artist Why Oak, as well as bands like Holistic to The Last Good Year rocked various stages, tents, and warehouse rooms, some exploding with a galaxy of LEDs, psychedelic freak outs, and computerized invasions, all giving a unique experience to the night.

Artists were a plenty with booth after booth, pushing style and substance. For some like John Atkins (www.artatkins.com), Oranje has become a yearly habit as this was his third year exhibiting his art.

Returning artist John Atkins.

"The Last Snack" by John Atkins.

For Dominique Sansone, this was his first Oranje experience. “I don’t know what to expect, but I have a great spot by the bar, so I hope that helps bring people by,” said Sansone, who featured his sculpture work. The intereaction between artist and people is crucial to the success of a show like this.

Dominique Sansone surrounded by his sculptures.

For art therapist Kate Wagner (http://www.artifolio.com/artist/missionart/), something like Oranje is her therapy. Having something completely different and putting herself in a new landscape is a refreshing experience.

Kate Wagner next to her homemade pieces.

One of Kate Wagner's art pieces.

Artists like Zachery Lopez (http://www.zacharylopezstudioartist.com/Welcome.html), use Oranje to give viewers a chance to witness the creation process and on-the-spot painting.

Zachary Lopez works on a piece for attendees to watch and converse.

But for Nathan Monk (http://www.nathanmonkart.com/), his experience and work with found objects allow for spectators to be artists and create their own piece of art.

Nathan Monk uses found objects like cardboard as canvas or bottle caps as accents to create striking pieces of art.

One of Nathan Monk's small piece series.

Athomas Palmer of McFee Gallery (http://www.mcfeegallery.com/) can best sum up the experience of Oranje.

“For Oranje this year, music and art has improved this year. The experience is intense.”

Athomas Palmer with McFee Gallery.

For a recap and essence of Oranje, visit the organization’s website: http://www.oranjeindy.com/