Please join the Arts Council and WFYI as we host a virtual First Friday tribute and toast to Jill Ditmire, the widely beloved and respected WFYI arts reporter and journalist who died this past weekend at age 56. Artists and art & culture leaders will share memories and reflections of Jill, who has been part of the lives of Midwest viewers and listeners for 25 years.
All are welcome as we celebrate the curiosity, heart, knowledge, and innovation Jill brought to her work, especially during COVID-19, as she helped keep us all connected to and inspired by the arts.
Space for attendees on Zoom for this event is limited to 100 people, but the Arts Council will broadcast the tribute via our Facebook page starting at 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 5.
—
Artist Mirvia Sol Eckert created “Indy’s Art Warrior” (acrylic on canvas) as part of the “Our Pretty Differences” series:
Jill’s story stopped far too early but her legacy and tireless commitment will continue to inspire us all. The Indy art community will grieve this loss for many years to come. She was “única” (unique).
I started the “Our Pretty Differences” tiny series with a painting of Jill on a 3-inch canvas. When I gave her the painting she was surprised and thrilled by the gift. In true Jill style, she received it with a shy chuckle.
Jill’s personality made people love her and bond on a deep level no matter how often or infrequent you saw her. She always made you feel you were the best of friends. Her friendship, interest, and support were so valuable to me and many others and will be treasured always.
The quote “We Rise By Lifting Others” describes Jill’s Life.