Ball State University's David Owsley Museum of Art is hosting its annual 'Art in Bloom' event from May 15 to 17, 2026, in Muncie, Indiana. Regional floral designers create arrangements inspired by works from the museum's collection, with a free public preview party on May 15 featuring jazz by the Mark Buselli Trio. The weekend includes extended hours, paper flower-making workshops, live music by pianist Mikael Darmanie, and a People's Choice Award vote. This year's event is dedicated to the late David T. Owsley, the museum's namesake and main benefactor. A special exhibition, 'Nora Krug: Belonging,' organized by the Norman Rockwell Museum, is also on view through June 13.
The event matters because it fosters community engagement with the museum's collection through a creative, family-friendly format that blends visual art with floristry. By honoring David T. Owsley and featuring works he donated, 'Art in Bloom' highlights the role of benefactors in enriching museum collections and making art accessible to a broad audience. The free admission and hands-on activities underscore the museum's commitment to inclusivity and local cultural enrichment.