Basile Center

Bring creative thinking to life through the Basile Center

The Basile Center for Art, Design, and Public Life offers students the unique opportunity to contribute to the cultural vitality of Indianapolis and the surrounding region.

Since 2005, the Basile Center has served as a creative think tank, connecting Herron talent with community partners. The result is a wide array of imaginative projects—from public art commissions to design concepts for products or services.

By collaborating with businesses, nonprofits, healthcare facilities, communities, and government agencies, Herron students learn how to apply creative skills and ideas to solve problems in every industry and meet the demands of a constantly shifting global landscape.

This community engagement is paired with academic curriculum, and dedicated faculty members who mentor students each step of the way.

120+clients and community partners

1,000+students have participated in Basile Center projects

IU Indianapolis senior Regan Wakeman said she hopes “Evren” offers viewers a moment to reflect and think about something outside of themselves.  Liz Kaye, Indiana University

THE LUME Indianapolis featuring "Connection: Land, Water, Sky"

Herron School of Art and Design students bring immersive storytelling to life at THE LUME at Newfields. Through original animations and soundscapes, their work enhances the “Connection: Land, Water, Sky” exhibition by offering visitors a dynamic, multisensory experience.

Explore the exhibition
Brenna McCarty's "Blue Skies" is the first sculpture to be installed permanently at the Indianapolis International Airport since the new terminal opened in 2008. Ethan Gill, Indiana University

"Blue Skies" at the Indianapolis International Airport

“Blue Skies,” a new permanent sculpture by Brenna McCarty (B.F.A. '23), now welcomes travelers at Indianapolis International Airport. Featuring over 200 suspended blue spheres, the piece symbolizes unity and global connection while celebrating The International Center’s 50th anniversary

Learn about the project

Statewide impact

Herron’s commitment to collaborative learning and community engagement contributes to the cultural vitality of Indiana and enhances our state’s reputation as a place where innovation and creative thinking are valued.

Recent community partners

  • Broad Ripple Village
  • The Caring Place
  • City of Lawrence
  • City of Westfield
  • Dow AgroSciences
  • Duke Energy
  • Edna Martin Christian Center
  • Eli Lilly and Company
  • Fort Benjamin Harrison
  • Keep Indianapolis Beautiful
  • Indiana University School of Dentistry
  • IU Health
  • IU Health Neuroscience Center
  • Indianapolis Airport Authority
  • Indianapolis Cultural Trail
  • Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields
  • Indianapolis Public Transportation Corporation
  • Indy Parks and Recreation
  • The International Center
  •  Riley Hospital for Children
  • Wishard Foundation
  • YMCA

Step into your future career

Through Basile Center projects, students explore creativity’s role in daily life while gaining real-world skills for careers in art, design, and music technology.

  • Concept development
  • Design leadership
  • Strategic thinking
  • Project planning
  • Solution-driven methodologies

Contact the Basile Center

To learn more about the Basile Center, submit a proposal, or get involved, contact the Center at basile@iu.edu or by phone 317-278-9423.