New Voices in Contemporary Art Opens 11/15 at Newfields

In Newfields’ newest exhibition, Bold: New Voices in Contemporary Art, discover thirteen compelling works from the Indianapolis Museum of Art’s expanding contemporary art collection. This exhibition reflects the IMA’s commitment to embracing powerful, diverse voices shaping the future of contemporary art around the world.

Bold features newly acquired works by global artists, including Wole Lagunju, Esther Mahlangu, Wangari Mathenge, Manuel Mendive and Khalif Thompson, alongside emerging artists such as Turiya Magadlela, Katlego Tlabela and Kimathi Mafafo. The artists in the exhibition push the boundaries of traditional painting, moving beyond oil and acrylic into dynamic compositions that incorporate textiles, found objects, digital media and handmade materials. The result is a collection of electrifying, unconventional works of art.

“This exhibition marks a bold step forward for Newfields," said Belinda Tate, the Melvin & Bren Simon Director of the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. “We are expanding the narrative of contemporary art by elevating emerging and well-established artists whose stories, materials and perspectives speak with global resonance. These works challenge, inspire and reflect the world we live in — and the future we want to shape.”

Collection favorites such as Vaughn Spann’s Rover, Carlos Rolón’s The person I was becoming, and Samuel Levi Jones’ multi-medium piece, Untitled (2019), return to the galleries alongside powerful new additions at the IMA. Bold is more than an exhibition — it is a declaration of Newfields’ inclusive vision for global contemporary art that celebrates its encyclopedic collections while engaging today’s audiences. The show invites all guests to explore, reflect and connect.

Be among the first to see Bold: New Voices in Contemporary Art at the opening celebration on Friday, November 14. The evening begins in The Tobias Theater with a panel discussion moderated by Curator Michael Vetter, PhD, featuring several of the exhibition’s artists. Following the conversation, guests are invited to the IMA Galleries for an exclusive exhibition preview and a reception with light bites and one complimentary drink ticket. Additional beverages will be available for purchase. 

Bold: New Voices in Contemporary Art will be on display in June M. McCormack Forefront Galleries on Floor 2 of the Indianapolis Museum of Art until its closing on June 28, 2026. This exhibition is organized by Michael Vetter, PhD, Associate Curator of Contemporary Art at Newfields.

This exhibition was made possible with support from Eric Antoine Logan.

Image Credit: Wole Lagunju (Nigerian, b. 1966), The Adoration of Benjamin, 2023, oil on canvas, 75 × 57-1/4 × 1-1/4 in. Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, purchased with funds provided by David Phillips, 2024.6. © Wole Lagunju.