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Indianapolis painter Alicia Zanoni had her work cut out for her. This winter, WFYI partnered with her to create a mural in the WFYI building that demonstrates the breadth and depth of WFYI’s mission and impact on one blank wall. After weeks of consulting, drafting and sketching, Zanoni created a piece that references WFYI’s storytelling, journalism, local presence and global coverage, educational programs, and connections with culture, information and nature. Many small details are hidden in the work, which stretches over 12 feet wide and eight feet tall. Hear more about the work in the conversation below between Zanoni and WFYI’s own Pam Elliot.
How did you get started on this project?
I’ve lived in Indianapolis for 5 years so I knew a little about WFYI, but I wanted to learn as much as I could about the organization. Most of my contact had been with Jill Ditmire who had covered arts and culture for WFYI until her passing in 2021. WFYI Design Strategist Maura Broderson gave me a tour of the building, and I spent time researching the WFYI website. On the website I found a quote from Kyle Long, host and producer of WFYI’s radio program, Cultural Manifesto that inspired me. Kyle wrote, “I really want to use music as a bridge to create cultural understanding.”
How do you put 50 years on a wall?
I started with the colors of WFYI’s logo. This project allowed me to be imaginative with color. Color is like cooking. Warm and cool colors are like salt and sugar. You want to achieve balance. For instance, look at the camera and see that there are warm (yellow) and cool (blue) shades of green. As I considered the history of WFYI, I determined broadcasting (radio and TV) needed to be represented, but also the digital space with a clicker mouse and webpage.
What other images did you choose and why?
I felt the theme of learning together was important. WFYI programs feed the curiosity of all ages and connect us all, so I incorporated a mature tree with roots that intertwine with a sapling. Also, with Maura’s help, there is even significance in the bug chosen; it’s a firefly, the state insect.
How do you take a sketch on a pad and make it the size of a mural?
One square inch equals one square foot, so I paint a grid in a light color that will eventually fade on the wall before I start with the actual painting.
What has your journey been like as an artist in Indiana?
I was introduced to Indianapolis through an internship at the Harrison Center. I still maintain a studio there, but it’s been difficult at times. After my internship when I’d see buildings under construction, I’d approach management and ask if they needed any artwork. I needed to find a way to pay my bills. I would paint what I was commissioned to paint, big and small spaces. Now I get to paint what I find most special — landscapes and sunrises. I did experience a creative slump during the pandemic, but I’m back! After this project I am stepping away from doing murals and working on 100 new paintings for a show in May.
Keep up with Zanoni’s latest work and shows by visiting her website aliciazanoni.com and following her on Instagram.
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