THE RESET: An Art & Soul Featured Artist Showcase
About this Event
On Saturday, October 10 from 7-9:30 p.m, the 2026 Art & Soul Featured Artists invite you to THE RESET: An Art & Soul Featured Artist Showcase, taking place Saturday, October 10, 2026 from 7-9:30 p.m.
Curated and hosted by the Madam Walker Legacy Center, the showcase will feature original music, poetry, storytelling, and theatrical performances by the Art & Soul 2026 Featured Artists. This year's showcase is centered around the theme Reset — an intentional pause to release old habits, realign with core values, and create a strong foundation for growth.
The continued collaboration between Indy Arts Council and Madam Walker Legacy Center provides more opportunities to celebrate the artists' work while introducing new audiences to the Art & Soul program and its impact. Art & Soul is supported annually by Lilly Endowment Inc.
Doors open at 6 p.m. The show starts at 7 p.m. and runs until 9:30 p.m.
2026 ART & SOUL FEATURED ARTISTS
- Multidisciplinary artist - Dr. Austin Dean Ashford has written and performed award-winning solo shows and currently collaborates with local organizations like Flanner House and IF Theatre to mentor dozens of emerging Black artists in theatre, music, and storytelling. His goal is to build a sustainable creative empire that uplifts Black stories across stage, screen, and community. He aims to build a professional foundation that allows him to tour, produce, and publish at a higher level while continuing to mentor others.
- Musician - Kenn.Wav is a pianist who moves through sound with intention, groove, and soul. Inspired by artists like D'Angelo, his work emphasizes connection, creating music that invites listeners into a shared experience. His recent projects include the 2023 alternative R&B release Frequency, featuring vocalist B.Slade, and a collaborative EP with Breon Lanier, expanding his sound while remaining rooted in soul and emotional honesty.
- Literary and spoken word artist - Auboni Essence is a poet and performer whose work blends personal experience with universal truth. Recently, they competed nationally with a slam poetry team, headlined That Peace Open Mic, and led a six-week youth poetry workshop and showcase. Known for their authenticity and magnetic stage presence, Auboni transforms every space into a platform for connection. Their work reflects a commitment to exploring life’s joys and struggles while inspiring audiences.
- Multidisciplinary artist - Indianapolis native D’yshe Mansfield is a singer, songwriter, actor, and director building a career across music, theatre, and film. After training at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City, she returned home in 2021 to create and give back to the local arts community. A genre-bending pop, rock, R&B, and soul artist rooted in emotional honesty and connection, she has performed at signature venues and events including The Jazz Kitchen, BLACK: A Festival of Joy, Legacy Fest, and BUTTER.
PARKING INFORMATION
Parking is available in the lots directly next to the Madam Walker Legacy Center.
617 Indiana Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46202
About Indy Arts Council - Indy Arts Council is central Indiana's leading arts advocacy and services agency. Its mission is to champion arts and culture. Indy Arts Council believes every resident should experience arts and culture in a way that nourishes and inspires them. This vision of a creative life for all is central to the work they do to support artists, arts organizations, and the community.
About Madam Walker Legacy Center - The Madam Walker Legacy Center represents a significant piece of the nation's history. It is located in the Madam C.J. Walker Building, which was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1991 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. It remains a beacon of pride, hope, and the beauty that lies in diversity, ensuring that the significance of Madam C.J. Walker, Indiana Avenue, and the cultural arts are not forgotten.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 7.18 to USD 12.51
