Lance Pruitt, a seasoned artist and public art professional with extensive experience in both the art and design industries, joins Herron School of Art and Design as the Director of the Basile Center for Art, Design, and Public Life. His appointment marks an exciting chapter for the Basile Center, a creative think tank focused on fostering collaboration between students, community partners, the city of Indianapolis and beyond.
“I’m excited to continue to develop relationships with community partners that will provide more professional development opportunities for Herron students,” says Pruitt. “We have a unique ability at the Basile Center to foster a deeper understanding of the career possibilities available to Herron students at the same time as we expand what public art or art in general looks like in the city.”
Pruitt holds a B.F.A. in Sculpture from Indiana University and an M.F.A. in Sculpture and Expanded Media from Ohio State University. Over the years, he has honed his skills in a variety of professional contexts, from working in arts production and public art to project management, design work, and educational roles. His career spans positions at community-based art centers, universities, and organizations such as Newfields, where he was involved in exhibition design and technical services.
“Based upon his experience and skills, I believe Lance is the right person to enable the Center to connect the creative resources of Herron with any public or private organization which wants to have art designed and produced for a specific purpose or location, while also providing professional experience for Herron students,” said Frank Basile, philanthropist and namesake of the Basile Center. “Under his leadership, Herron will provide this valuable service to the community through an innovative educational model.”
Beyond his work with students, Pruitt is eager to build and strengthen relationships with local businesses, arts organizations, and civic leaders, all with the goal of creating more collaborative, interdisciplinary projects that enhance the public realm. His approach emphasizes a strong commitment to equity and accessibility, particularly in ensuring that local community members have a voice in the development of public art and design initiatives.