Naturally Inspired Paint Out


Apr 13

Naturally Inspired Paint Out

9 AM - 3 PM

Presented by The Great Frame Up Downtown
Buy Tickets

Naturally Inspired Paint Out presented by The Great Frame Up Downtown

Experience the Zoo through the eyes of artists!

Each year, the Zoo invites a group of juried artists to make art “en plein air” (outdoors) at the Naturally Inspired Paint Out presented by The Great Frame Up Downtown. This signature Zoo event is a great opportunity to showcase your talents in front of thousands of Zoo patrons while also supporting the Zoo’s mission of animal conservation. ​

During this annual event, artists transform a blank canvas or a hunk of clay into a truly extraordinary work of art inspired by the natural world, right here at the Indianapolis Zoo.

Be inspired to create beautiful artwork while supporting the Indianapolis Zoo!
Call for Entries

The Naturally Inspired Paint Out is an opportunity for artists to gain professional exposure while supporting the Zoo’s important conservation and education goals. In addition to showcasing their work onsite to tens of thousands of Zoo members and guests at the Naturally Inspired Art Show, the artists’ work will be featured in the Indianapolis Zoo Member eNews, with a circulation of more than 375,000 in Indiana and beyond.

A group of distinguished jurors will select 15 artists from the applicants, based on creativity, integrity of work and sensitivity to and understanding of the subject. Artists selected to participate will receive a $100 stipend to cover material costs and supplies.

For consideration in the Naturally Inspired event, please submit the following:

  • Biographical résumé and brief letter stating interest in the Zoo’s Naturally Inspired events.
  • Completed Naturally Inspired Paint Out Entry Form including digital images of three examples of recent work. Each image must contain the artist’s name, title of the work, medium, size and date. Examples should demonstrate to the jury the artist’s technical skill and ability to handle a range of subjects.
  • Entry applications must be submitted by 5pm on Thursday, Feb. 29.
Entry Form
Naturally Inspired Art Show

After the artworks are complete and been professionally framed by The Great Frame Up Downtown, see them alongside the works of some of our more artistically inclined animals. Artists will be encouraged to mingle with members, donors and guests and discuss their artwork.

From August 29 thru September 26, come see these colorful creations in person at the Phoenix Theatre Cultural Centre, and then you can take home the art your heart desires during the Naturally Inspired Silent Auction.

Silent Auction

See a painting or sculpture that you’d like to have at home? Join us for our Naturally Inspired Silent Auction. All the proceeds from our Naturally Inspired Silent Auction benefit the Zoo’s animals and conservation programs.

Thanks to our Partner