A Carnegie Library Repurposed

The Lilian Fendig Gallery is located in the historic Carnegie Center in downtown Rensselaer, a restored and renovated 1904 Carnegie Library. The Prairie Arts Council maintains the Lilian Fendig Gallery as a showcase and main offices. We rotate exhibits from local, regional, and national artists that often include receptions. This is a great way to meet up with friends and new people in the community that share the same interests in the arts.

The gallery is named for Lilian Fendig (1912-1985), who was born in London, England, the daughter of Edward Bossom and Lillian Whitman. She met Rensselaer native and pharmacist, Ralph Fendig, during World War II when he was deployed at an Army hospital where she volunteered. In 1948 they came to the United State and made their home in Rensselaer. Lilian Fendig continued to paint and achieved recognition for her work throughout Indiana and beyond. An archive of her painting records and many of her paintings, sketches and prints comprise the core of PAC’s developing permanent collection.

A volunteer exhibition committee coordinates year round exhibitions in the Lilian Fendig Gallery to showcase the artwork by artists of all ages and abilities.

Our annual schedule includes:

• The Regional School Art Shows featuring artwork by local school students in Kindergarten through 12th grades, created in local art programs. Including The Primary Show (ages K-2), The Elementary Show (grades 3 – 5) The Middle Level Show (grades 6 – 8) and the High School Show (grades 9-12).

• The PAC Member Show featuring the original artwork by PAC member artists.

• Special shows are presented in the summer ranging from periodic shows by local organizations like the Carnegie Quilters or a special exhibition honoring the passing of local artist.

• The fall brings an annual show by the members of the Jasper County Art League, frequent partners of PAC.

• A solo exhibition by a professional regional artist is usually held in October.

• The Holiday Art Show and Sale in early November

Gallery hours: Tuesday and Thursday Noon to 4:00pm,  check our Events page for more details.