WFYI's Signature Arts Program Gets Refresh

After 17 years of a mostly unchanged format, along with the departure of longtime co-host Travis DiNicola last month, WFYI’s signature arts program, The Art of the Matter, will have a different format beginning Saturday, October 8.

Roxanna Caldwell, program director, WFYI Public Radio, says the program will take more of a magazine-style format exploring a wide variety of perspectives and genres within the city’s vibrant arts scene.

“We feel that those who’ve come to love The Art of the Matter will continue to enjoy it, and those who’ve not yet discovered it, will be drawn in by emerging voices and genres,” she said.

“Co-host for the past 17 years, Sharon Gamble, has been an important element of this program for a long time, and she will continue to play a vital role in the new format,” Caldwell says. “In addition, we’ll hear more from WFYI’s Jill Ditmire and Melissa Davis, as well as new voices from community contributors,” Caldwell says.

The first episode’s guest community contributors include Lou Harry, IBJ arts and entertainment editor, and Ben Shine, of the Indianapolis Art Center, who will explore the city’s Bard Fest and the ISO’s upcoming production of The Music of Prince.  Listeners can also expect to hear an interview with Indy-based author/illustrator, Devon Kondaki, plus, segments from Kyle Long of A Cultural Manifesto and Jolene Ketzenberger of Eat, Drink Indiana Radio, and much more.

“It’s going to be a jam-packed program filled with diverse voices and stories from all over the arts community,” says Caldwell. “There will be something for every arts fan.”

Beginning with the October 8th program, The Art of the Matter will air first on Saturdays at 7 a.m.  and repeat on Thursdays at 8 p.m. on 90.1 WFYI Public Radio. Listen to past episodes.