A beautiful autumn afternoon. A gathering of dedicated volunteers. A shared vision for the future of arts in Perry County.
On Wednesday, October 21, the sunshine was bright, the shovels were digging, and community members were hard at work at the corner of 12th and Tell Streets in Tell City!
What has reportedly stood vacant for nearly two decades is getting a new lease on life, thanks to the vision of Tell City Regional Arts (TCRA) and the many individuals who believe in the power of art, community, and revitalization.
Approximately 14 volunteers came together to help bring that vision one step closer to reality. Plants found their new homes, mulch was moved and spread, hands got dirty, and a little autumn sunshine made for a wonderful afternoon of community spirit. There was plenty of sweat, smiles, and enthusiasm for what this space will become.
And this is about so much more than landscaping.
It’s about planting the seeds for something extraordinary.
The transformation is part of a much larger vision to establish a vibrant cultural arts center, creating opportunities for exhibitions, workshops, performances, and creative connections. A place where artists can thrive, young people can discover their talents, and our community can come together through the arts.
In summer 2025, the project secured $105,000 for its first phase through community fundraising and Indiana’s CreatINg Places matching grant program, administered by the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) in partnership with Patronicity. This investment is helping transform the property into a welcoming community space while laying the groundwork for future development.
The People Behind the Progress
Community impact happens when people show up, roll up their sleeves, and work together!
Among those photographed participating in the afternoon’s efforts were:
- Colleen Reed — Executive Director, Tell City Regional Arts
- Mickey McMahon
- Cindia Ress
- Ike Coyle — Coyle’s Lawn & Landscaping Services
- Evie Purviance
- Kelly Bloom — Kelly’s Cookery and Perry County Grows
- McKenna Guth — Vadamarie Studio
- Laura Schilling — Everbody’s Fun & Fitness Center
- Teresa Kanneberg
- Mark Kanneberg
- Bill Flamion
- Laurie Dinkel
- Katie Pappano
- Ralph and Henry Reed — Youth volunteers
From local business owners and nonprofit leaders to neighbors and young volunteers, each person brought something valuable to the afternoon.
Their contributions are a wonderful reminder that community investment isn’t always measured in dollars. Sometimes it’s measured in hours volunteered, shovels of mulch moved, and the willingness to show up for something bigger than ourselves.
The Story Is Still Being Written!
While the landscaping marks another exciting milestone, Tell City Regional Arts continues working toward its larger vision, and there are so many ways to help bring more arts to life in Perry County!
Attend an art exhibition. Explore a workshop. Enjoy an Open Mic Night, improv performance, or Murder Mystery Theatre production. Become a member, volunteer your time, support ongoing fundraising efforts, or introduce a friend to the wonderful creative opportunities happening right here in our community.
Every contribution, every helping hand, and every person who shows up makes a difference.
Learn more about Tell City Regional Arts, upcoming events, membership opportunities, and ways to support their mission by visiting www.tcregionalarts.com.
You can also follow Tell City Regional Arts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!
To everyone who gave their afternoon, their energy, and their enthusiasm, thank you for helping something beautiful take root in Perry County.
Because this is what community looks like.
Neighbors showing up. Local businesses lending a hand. Young people getting involved. People investing in possibility. And a once-forgotten corner becoming a place filled with promise.
This Is Perry.
This Is Perry is a community storytelling series from Perry County Development Corporation, celebrating the people, places, organizations, and everyday efforts making a difference throughout Perry County.
Photos by Gabby Davis, Perry County Development Corporation, and McKenna Guth of Vadamarie Studio.
Have a story worth sharing? Know of an upcoming community project, volunteer opportunity, local initiative, or someone making a difference in Perry County? We’d love to hear about it! Help us celebrate the people, places, and efforts that make our community special.
Share your story ideas with ga***@*******ry.com for a chance to be featured in This Is Perry!
