The School of Art is proud to present Checkpoint: Interactive Artworks & Experimental Play , an exhibition by John C. Gonzalez.

The Ned and Gloria Griner Art Gallery
____________________________
January 7 to 29, 2026
Exhibition Reception, Gallery Talk and Art Performance: January 7, 4 to 6 p.m.

About the Artist

John C. Gonzalez is an interdisciplinary artist whose practice spans installation, sculpture, painting, performance, writing, music, game design, and socially engaged projects. Deeply collaborative in nature, his work often blurs the lines between artist, viewer, and participant, challenging conventional notions of authorship and production. Gonzalez frequently partners with individuals or institutions not traditionally associated with artmaking to create pieces that reflect shared labor, conversation, and experience. These conversations result in works that are as much about the process and relationships as they are about the final product. Through his ongoing exploration of labor, cooperation, and institutional critique, Gonzalez's practice offers a reflective and often playful lens on the social systems that shape artistic and everyday life. Whether building systems that critique their own fabrication, facilitating game-based art experiences, or searching for meaning in collective action, he consistently seeks to expand the role of the artist beyond the studio and into the shared spaces of work, play, and community. Gonzalez lives in Rhode Island and teaches drawing and game design at Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, RI.

The exhibition Checkpoint: Interactive Artworks & Experimental Play will include several interactive and game-adjacent artworks in the galleries. These works will include images, performance, and site-specific works that will solicit viewer engagement and provide space for unexpected connections and exchanges.

Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 10 A.M. - 4 P.M. Closed weekends and all Ball State breaks and holidays.

A participant creating a print

This is a free letterpress printing event. No experience is necessary. Come select type and images from our collection to create your own unique print to take home. If you carve your own blocks feel free to bring them. Kids can join as long as an adult is with them. 

THIRD THURSDAYS! 🌱 Join our local Growers & Makers of the Muncie Makers Market for a really fun "night market" vibe EVERY MONTH for Third Thursdays at MadJax Maker Force! ALL INDOORS! While you enjoy shopping for our homemade, handmade, and locally grown goods, you can also have a great time throwing axes and nerf football bowling with a beer at Max Axe Muncie, have a delicious dinner and brews at The Guardian Brewery Co., and explore the HUGE MadJax Maker Force facility! WE are soooo excited to partner with MadJax Maker Force for a NEW NIGHT OUT in Downtown Muncie!

The Muncie Makers Market is a retail business incubator presented to the public through a community farmers market with fresh homemade food, locally grown produce, live plants, and handmade arts of all kinds! You’ll find the Muncie Makers Market monthly during the First Thursday & Third Thursday community events in Downtown Muncie, and at special annual events like the Magic City Brewfest, Brink of Summer ArtsWalk, Fire Up DWNTWN, ArtsWalk, and Light Up DWNTWN throughout our community all year! We develop local small business through education, connections, and events! Please JOIN us on Facebook and Instagram and please SHARE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1627047027524961/  

MadJax Maker Force:

https://www.madjax.org

Mad Axe Muncie:

https://madaxemuncie.com

The Guardian Brewing Co.:

https://guardian.beer

Winston Churchill is back! His purpose: To warn humanity not of a Nazi threat, not of Soviet Iron Curtain Communism, but rather - that a Digital Iron Curtain has fallen across all of humanity and that action this day is necessary to Defend Liberty and Freedom.

Winston Churchill, along with Michael Duncan’s brilliant narration, Eric Anderson’s stirring musical renderings and Kevin Pehler’s stunning audio-visual magic leads us through history, painting the portrait of humanity’s struggle between totalitarian conquest and control and individual liberty and freedom. This stirring, inspirational “Theatrical Keynote” brings Winston Churchill’s keen, incisive message of hope to the 21st Century. The audience will have the opportunity to interact directly with Prime Minister Churchill during Ask Winston, a fun, lively Q&A.

World-class artists and musicians brought together in the Coffee and Cabernet Series. Experience these internationally renowned artists in the intimate setting of Pruis Hall and enjoy a selection of wine, craft beer or coffee while attending the performance. 

The School of Art is proud to present Checkpoint: Interactive Artworks & Experimental Play , an exhibition by John C. Gonzalez.

The Ned and Gloria Griner Art Gallery
____________________________
January 7 to 29, 2026
Exhibition Reception, Gallery Talk and Art Performance: January 7, 4 to 6 p.m.

About the Artist

John C. Gonzalez is an interdisciplinary artist whose practice spans installation, sculpture, painting, performance, writing, music, game design, and socially engaged projects. Deeply collaborative in nature, his work often blurs the lines between artist, viewer, and participant, challenging conventional notions of authorship and production. Gonzalez frequently partners with individuals or institutions not traditionally associated with artmaking to create pieces that reflect shared labor, conversation, and experience. These conversations result in works that are as much about the process and relationships as they are about the final product. Through his ongoing exploration of labor, cooperation, and institutional critique, Gonzalez's practice offers a reflective and often playful lens on the social systems that shape artistic and everyday life. Whether building systems that critique their own fabrication, facilitating game-based art experiences, or searching for meaning in collective action, he consistently seeks to expand the role of the artist beyond the studio and into the shared spaces of work, play, and community. Gonzalez lives in Rhode Island and teaches drawing and game design at Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, RI.

The exhibition Checkpoint: Interactive Artworks & Experimental Play will include several interactive and game-adjacent artworks in the galleries. These works will include images, performance, and site-specific works that will solicit viewer engagement and provide space for unexpected connections and exchanges.

Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 10 A.M. - 4 P.M. Closed weekends and all Ball State breaks and holidays.

Fridays: Jan. 9, 16 at 5:00 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.
Saturdays: Jan. 10, 17 at 6:30 p.m.

This character-led adventure takes you through the dangers and wonders of our Solar System and beyond—fasten your seatbelt and see if you have the courage to make it home in one piece!
Perfect for ages 8+; all ages are welcome.
Note: Dome motion is common in planetarium shows, and this program has especially strong motion—please be advised.

Plan Your Visit to the Planetarium

Please Note: Programs start promptly at the advertised time. Doors close 15 minutes after showtime and no late entry is permitted after that time.

Fridays: Jan. 9, 16 at 5:00 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.
Saturdays: Jan. 10, 17 at 6:30 p.m.

This character-led adventure takes you through the dangers and wonders of our Solar System and beyond—fasten your seatbelt and see if you have the courage to make it home in one piece!
Perfect for ages 8+; all ages are welcome.
Note: Dome motion is common in planetarium shows, and this program has especially strong motion—please be advised.

Plan Your Visit to the Planetarium

Please Note: Programs start promptly at the advertised time. Doors close 15 minutes after showtime and no late entry is permitted after that time.

Our first dance of 2026 is almost here, and it’s going to be sweet as candy! Step into a colorful Candy Land themed night filled with sugary vibes, smiling faces, and plenty of fun. This dance is open to anyone 18 and older, so grab your friends and get ready for a treat of a night.

Tickets go on sale Monday 1/5/26 at the Senior Center or anytime by scanning the QR Code. $10 in advance/ $12 at the door.

Doors open at 6:30 PM, and our concessions will be stocked with sweet treats available for purchase. Please note: no outside beverages are allowed.

We'll bring the sweetness to the dance floor with Remedy Band, serving up the perfect mix to keep you dancing all night long.

Paulus Hector Mair, c. 16th century

Join us as we travel to 15th century Germany to learn the art of longsword fencing! The richly illustrated manuscripts documenting this tradition have inspired countless movies, shows, and games - this class will inspire you! Building your reputation as a sword fighter is a great way to build strength, balance, and coordination too. No prior fencing experience is required. All equipment provided. Athletic shoes, sweatpants, and groin protection are recommended

Saturdays: Jan. 10, 17 at 3:30 p.m.

Take an imaginary trip from Sesame Street to the moon, find shapes in the sky, and learn about the North Star in this cross-cultural adventure with Big Bird, Elmo, and their friend Hu Hu Zhu from China.
Perfect for families and groups with pre-K through 1st grade learners; all ages are welcome.

Plan Your Visit to the Planetarium

Please Note: Programs start promptly at the advertised time. Doors close 15 minutes after showtime and no late entry is permitted after that time.

Saturdays: Jan. 10, 17 at 5:00 p.m.

From volcanoes and geysers to ice-covered oceans and methane rain, these natural satellites have some spectacular features, and many even exert a surprising influence on their planetary partners.
Perfect for adults and ages 10+, all ages are welcome.

Plan Your Visit to the Planetarium

Please Note: Programs start promptly at the advertised time. Doors close 15 minutes after showtime and no late entry is permitted after that time.

Fridays: Jan. 9, 16 at 5:00 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.
Saturdays: Jan. 10, 17 at 6:30 p.m.

This character-led adventure takes you through the dangers and wonders of our Solar System and beyond—fasten your seatbelt and see if you have the courage to make it home in one piece!
Perfect for ages 8+; all ages are welcome.
Note: Dome motion is common in planetarium shows, and this program has especially strong motion—please be advised.

Plan Your Visit to the Planetarium

Please Note: Programs start promptly at the advertised time. Doors close 15 minutes after showtime and no late entry is permitted after that time.

Muncie Stitch n' Bitch meets every Sunday! 🧶 We meet weekly at The Cup and we come and go from 3-6p. Everyone is welcome, with any kind of making! The Cup is in The Village, near the campus of Ball State University, at 1606 West University Avenue. Free parking is behind the café, enter the parking lot off of Dill Street by Be Here Now. Support our host venue with purchases from The Cup’s menu! ☕️🥯 Creativity and caffeine, that's our thing! 
 

Join us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1472977992921700

The School of Art is proud to present Checkpoint: Interactive Artworks & Experimental Play , an exhibition by John C. Gonzalez.

The Ned and Gloria Griner Art Gallery
____________________________
January 7 to 29, 2026
Exhibition Reception, Gallery Talk and Art Performance: January 7, 4 to 6 p.m.

About the Artist

John C. Gonzalez is an interdisciplinary artist whose practice spans installation, sculpture, painting, performance, writing, music, game design, and socially engaged projects. Deeply collaborative in nature, his work often blurs the lines between artist, viewer, and participant, challenging conventional notions of authorship and production. Gonzalez frequently partners with individuals or institutions not traditionally associated with artmaking to create pieces that reflect shared labor, conversation, and experience. These conversations result in works that are as much about the process and relationships as they are about the final product. Through his ongoing exploration of labor, cooperation, and institutional critique, Gonzalez's practice offers a reflective and often playful lens on the social systems that shape artistic and everyday life. Whether building systems that critique their own fabrication, facilitating game-based art experiences, or searching for meaning in collective action, he consistently seeks to expand the role of the artist beyond the studio and into the shared spaces of work, play, and community. Gonzalez lives in Rhode Island and teaches drawing and game design at Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, RI.

The exhibition Checkpoint: Interactive Artworks & Experimental Play will include several interactive and game-adjacent artworks in the galleries. These works will include images, performance, and site-specific works that will solicit viewer engagement and provide space for unexpected connections and exchanges.

Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 10 A.M. - 4 P.M. Closed weekends and all Ball State breaks and holidays.

Whether you first fell in love with the most elegant sword through the adventures of The Three Musketeers and Zorro, or in a roleplaying adventure of your own as a swashbuckler, we welcome you on a journey to 16th century Spain to learn “the true art”, La Verdadera Destreza! This exploration of historical fencing with the rapier and dagger is for all who want to learn an exciting new skill, get a great workout, and feel the thrill of clashing blades, all in one! No prior fencing experience is required. All equipment provided. Athletic shoes, sweatpants, and groin protection are recommended. 

The School of Art is proud to present Checkpoint: Interactive Artworks & Experimental Play , an exhibition by John C. Gonzalez.

The Ned and Gloria Griner Art Gallery
____________________________
January 7 to 29, 2026
Exhibition Reception, Gallery Talk and Art Performance: January 7, 4 to 6 p.m.

About the Artist

John C. Gonzalez is an interdisciplinary artist whose practice spans installation, sculpture, painting, performance, writing, music, game design, and socially engaged projects. Deeply collaborative in nature, his work often blurs the lines between artist, viewer, and participant, challenging conventional notions of authorship and production. Gonzalez frequently partners with individuals or institutions not traditionally associated with artmaking to create pieces that reflect shared labor, conversation, and experience. These conversations result in works that are as much about the process and relationships as they are about the final product. Through his ongoing exploration of labor, cooperation, and institutional critique, Gonzalez's practice offers a reflective and often playful lens on the social systems that shape artistic and everyday life. Whether building systems that critique their own fabrication, facilitating game-based art experiences, or searching for meaning in collective action, he consistently seeks to expand the role of the artist beyond the studio and into the shared spaces of work, play, and community. Gonzalez lives in Rhode Island and teaches drawing and game design at Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, RI.

The exhibition Checkpoint: Interactive Artworks & Experimental Play will include several interactive and game-adjacent artworks in the galleries. These works will include images, performance, and site-specific works that will solicit viewer engagement and provide space for unexpected connections and exchanges.

Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 10 A.M. - 4 P.M. Closed weekends and all Ball State breaks and holidays.

Join us Wednesdays for a 6 week program to explore drawing materials & mediums. Be challenged through using familiar materials in new ways and new mediums you haven't had the chance to play with yet. 

Ages 9-13 will focus on quick sketches of common items in our space, fun prompts, and tips to learn the new materials. Every other week is a new drawing medium.

Ages 14-24 will focus on quick sketches of live figures and a deep dive on a still life with challenges and tips to get more out of the mediums. Each week is a new drawing medium and still life.

We look forward to drawing with you!

The School of Art is proud to present Checkpoint: Interactive Artworks & Experimental Play , an exhibition by John C. Gonzalez.

The Ned and Gloria Griner Art Gallery
____________________________
January 7 to 29, 2026
Exhibition Reception, Gallery Talk and Art Performance: January 7, 4 to 6 p.m.

About the Artist

John C. Gonzalez is an interdisciplinary artist whose practice spans installation, sculpture, painting, performance, writing, music, game design, and socially engaged projects. Deeply collaborative in nature, his work often blurs the lines between artist, viewer, and participant, challenging conventional notions of authorship and production. Gonzalez frequently partners with individuals or institutions not traditionally associated with artmaking to create pieces that reflect shared labor, conversation, and experience. These conversations result in works that are as much about the process and relationships as they are about the final product. Through his ongoing exploration of labor, cooperation, and institutional critique, Gonzalez's practice offers a reflective and often playful lens on the social systems that shape artistic and everyday life. Whether building systems that critique their own fabrication, facilitating game-based art experiences, or searching for meaning in collective action, he consistently seeks to expand the role of the artist beyond the studio and into the shared spaces of work, play, and community. Gonzalez lives in Rhode Island and teaches drawing and game design at Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, RI.

The exhibition Checkpoint: Interactive Artworks & Experimental Play will include several interactive and game-adjacent artworks in the galleries. These works will include images, performance, and site-specific works that will solicit viewer engagement and provide space for unexpected connections and exchanges.

Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 10 A.M. - 4 P.M. Closed weekends and all Ball State breaks and holidays.

Bob Ross Painting Workshop

Learn Bob’s signature “wet-on-wet” technique from an experienced Certified Ross Instructor® and paint at Minnetrista! Just bring yourself, and we will provide everything you need to have a wonderful time. Just like Bob said, “Let’s get crazy!”

This workshop will take place in the Cantina, a ground-level, fully accessible space. Preregistration is strongly preferred. Limited walk-in seating may be available, so please call ahead. Painting workshops are open to participants ages 14 and up.

Please note: 765.282.4848 for more information.

CHICAGO is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one showstopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen.

In the whirlwind of Chicago’s Jazz Age, two of the Cook County Jail’s most notorious murderesses—vaudeville star Velma Kelly and chorus girl Roxie Hart—become fierce rivals as they compete for headlines amidst a media frenzy.

Broadway’s longest-running musical has been razzle-dazzling audiences for over 28 years, and after more than 10,000 performances, 6 Tony Awards®, 2 Olivier Awards, and a Grammy®, we’re just getting started.

Come on, babe! Head to CHICAGO!

We’re hotter than ever.

The School of Art is proud to present Checkpoint: Interactive Artworks & Experimental Play , an exhibition by John C. Gonzalez.

The Ned and Gloria Griner Art Gallery
____________________________
January 7 to 29, 2026
Exhibition Reception, Gallery Talk and Art Performance: January 7, 4 to 6 p.m.

About the Artist

John C. Gonzalez is an interdisciplinary artist whose practice spans installation, sculpture, painting, performance, writing, music, game design, and socially engaged projects. Deeply collaborative in nature, his work often blurs the lines between artist, viewer, and participant, challenging conventional notions of authorship and production. Gonzalez frequently partners with individuals or institutions not traditionally associated with artmaking to create pieces that reflect shared labor, conversation, and experience. These conversations result in works that are as much about the process and relationships as they are about the final product. Through his ongoing exploration of labor, cooperation, and institutional critique, Gonzalez's practice offers a reflective and often playful lens on the social systems that shape artistic and everyday life. Whether building systems that critique their own fabrication, facilitating game-based art experiences, or searching for meaning in collective action, he consistently seeks to expand the role of the artist beyond the studio and into the shared spaces of work, play, and community. Gonzalez lives in Rhode Island and teaches drawing and game design at Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, RI.

The exhibition Checkpoint: Interactive Artworks & Experimental Play will include several interactive and game-adjacent artworks in the galleries. These works will include images, performance, and site-specific works that will solicit viewer engagement and provide space for unexpected connections and exchanges.

Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 10 A.M. - 4 P.M. Closed weekends and all Ball State breaks and holidays.

Start your year off right!
Join us for a FREE Health Fair at the Muncie Children’s Museum on Saturday, January 24, from 10 am to 3 pm.

Bring the whole family for a day of hands-on museum fun, plus free health screenings, community resources, and interactive activities and games provided by Ball State University COH Interprofessional Community Clinic and ECI-AHEC.

Admission to the museum is FREE from 10 am to 5 pm. Stop by for a fun-filled day for the entire family

Paulus Hector Mair, c. 16th century

Join us as we travel to 15th century Germany to learn the art of longsword fencing! The richly illustrated manuscripts documenting this tradition have inspired countless movies, shows, and games - this class will inspire you! Building your reputation as a sword fighter is a great way to build strength, balance, and coordination too. No prior fencing experience is required. All equipment provided. Athletic shoes, sweatpants, and groin protection are recommended

Explore the art of glass enamel on copper using the same techniques artist Jessica Calderwood employed in exhibition pieces.

All tools, supplies, and safety gear will be provided. Participants should wear cotton clothing (no polyester or acrylic). Preregistration is strongly preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.

Free Community Event | Ages 13+

Yoga is for EveryBody is not just a class—it’s a celebration of unity and mindfulness. Led by Che’Reese Anderson, MBA, MSN/HC, RN, and CEO of Namaste, this Vinyasa yoga session links breath with movement through creative sequences, offering a dynamic practice that adapts to all levels. Whether you're new to yoga or an experienced practitioner, this class provides the perfect opportunity to connect with your body, mind, and spirit in a supportive, welcoming environment.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own yoga mat (or beach towel), wear comfortable clothing, and come with an open heart.

Join us for good music, great food, and a family-friendly atmosphere while listening to fantastic music performed by the MVP Project! 🎶⛳️ Grab your friends and family and settle in for a night of great music, delicious food, and family-friendly fun. 🍕✨️🥤

We'll also have some great specials available! 🎸⛳️ We hope to see you there!  *No outside food or beverages permitted*