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 in the building where The Joy of Painting was filmed! 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 is held in the Bob Ross Experience studio, which is only accessible by stairs. Painting workshops are open to participants ages 14 and up. Preregistration is strongly preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.

Please note: Admission to the Bob Ross Experience exhibition is not included with workshop registration. All attendees must be registered to participate. Contact our front desk at 765.282.4848 for more information.

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.

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.

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.

Enjoy tea and light refreshments while hearing from local glass artist Jennifer Halvorson, whose work explores family heritage, memory, and the ways values are passed from one generation to the next. Jennifer will share insights into her recent body of work—including pieces featured in her upcoming solo exhibition in Lafayette—and discuss how glass can hold both personal narrative and emotional resonance.

Preregistration is strongly preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.

Bob Ross Painting Workshop

Learn Bob’s signature “wet-on-wet” technique from an experienced Certified Ross Instructor® and paint in the building where The Joy of Painting was filmed! 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 is held in the Bob Ross Experience studio, which is only accessible by stairs. Painting workshops are open to participants ages 14 and up. Preregistration is strongly preferred; limited walk-in tickets may be available—please call ahead.

Please note: 765.282.4848 for more information.

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.

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.