Spark Ignites Monument Circle

INDIANAPOLIS -- For the next 10 weeks colorful, creative programming is taking over Indy’s most iconic space.  

Spark starts Saturday, Aug. 1 and features bistro style seating in little parklet areas, a pingpong table, costumed characters and interactive art exhibits installed on trailers parked along Monument Circle. 

The temporary installations are easy and accessible by design says Big Car Executive Director Jim Walker.

"It doesn't take millions of dollars," said Walker at a kick-off event Thursday, "it's just use what you have, work with it, add to it and build on it."

Big Car, The City of Indianapolis and Downtown Indy partnered to create the program that was funded with help from a $200,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Sherry Seiwert, president of Downtown Indy says Spark is also a data gathering experiment for Monument Circle redesign ideas. 

"Taking out the sidewalk a car width and creating more pedestrian space where people can sit and enjoy the beautiful Circle but also engage in fun activities," commented Seiwert, "this is a test to see how people will do with that."

During the 10-week run, a data evaluation plan will document visitor demographics, public perception and programming preferences to see what people respond to.  More popular installations may be incorporated into long-range plans to revamp the Circle. 

Interactive programming and events will also be held every day of the week with themes like Walking Wednesdays or Phono Fridays.