Digitization Project Preserves Indiana's Arts Legacy Through Historic Magazine Collection

The digitization of Arts Indiana Magazine, which documented Indiana's arts scene from 1979 to 2001, represents a significant preservation effort for the state's cultural history. Cornelius "Lee" Alig, a noted architect, developer, and long-time arts advocate who served as a board member, project advisor, and contributing writer for the magazine, emphasized the project's importance in creating an essential resource for understanding Indiana's artistic legacy. Alig stated that a seamless twenty-year continuum of information in the visual, literary, and performing arts creates an indispensable resource for researchers and enthusiasts alike.

The collection includes over twenty years of magazine issues covering literary, performing, and visual arts statewide, along with special features like the Postcard Art Series (1981–1996) and Poetry on the Buses (1984–1992), programs that highlighted local artists and writers. The project also preserves The Hopewell Review (1992–1997), a literary anthology featuring poetry, short stories, essays, and photojournalism. This comprehensive digitization ensures that Indiana's arts history is preserved and made accessible to educators, students, researchers, and art enthusiasts across the state and beyond through resources like https://www.digitalindy.org/digital/collection/aim.

Funding from organizations including the Lilly Endowment Inc., Indiana Arts Commission, and Martin Foundation supported both the original publication and the ongoing digitization initiative. The project has brought together hundreds of individuals and organizations that contributed materials, from postcards to literary works, to ensure the collection's comprehensiveness. Alig himself contributed a selection of original postcards, highlighting visual art and making it available for public access online. The digitization project, guided by The Indianapolis Public Library, transforms what was once just an idea into a permanent, accessible record of the state's artistic achievements.

Alig emphasized that supporting local arts extends beyond institutional programs, stating that people do not need to be professionals or part of large organizations to make an impact. He encourages people to attend local galleries, read Indiana authors, support performing arts groups, or submit work to local exhibitions, noting that every action helps maintain a vibrant cultural ecosystem. For those looking to engage, Alig suggests exploring digital archives, supporting local arts organizations through memberships or donations, and attending performances, gallery exhibitions, or literary readings. Alig concluded that preserving culture is a collective effort where every person who reads, views, or participates in Indiana's arts contributes to the legacy of the state, ensuring future generations have access to the creativity and inspiration that defines Indiana.