Wanna Buy a Mellencamp?

Rock fans love John Mellencamp, and The Southern Indiana Center for the Arts is the only place where you can find a collection of paintings done by Seymour’s favorite son. Located in an 1851 Greek Revival house owned by the rock star, the center houses two galleries of revolving exhibits. The pottery and craft barn contains the loft where he made his "Wild Night" video. Another attraction is the cage he crawled inside when he was dropped off a moving truck at the end of the motion picture "Falling from Grace"

Mellencamp is a late-comer to painting. In the late 1980’s, he started studying Impressionist paintings. Then he began to appreciate the Expressionist artwork he saw while touring Germany and Holland. He took a few classes in Indianapolis and New York, and then began a search to find his own style.

At the Center, John’s family is well represented. His mother Marilyn, is a successful artist and has many paintings displayed for sale. She still participates in classes and recently began to study in France and Spain. On the grounds, the memorial garden was dedicated to John’s beloved Grandma Laura.

The Southern Indiana Center for the Arts is located at 2001 N. Ewing St. in Seymour, and admission is free. Local students have the opportunity to exhibit work in the student gallery. Educational rooms are available for classes, and the full kitchen makes it easy when hosting retreats and conferences. Any visit wouldn’t be complete without a tour of the pre-electric-age Conner Museum of Antique Printing. On Saturday afternoons, visitors can take a turn on one of the potter's wheels, or take part in one of many events scheduled through out the year.

There is always something happening at SICA -- a recital, a festival, an art class, summer art camp, a wine seminar, a lecture or a cooking class. SICA is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 12:00 noon till 5:00 p.m. or by appointment. Phone (812) 522-2278.