There’s more than just Lotus happening around Festival time …
Soon Ran Youn: Fiber Art Reinvented
Yarns Unlimited (115 S. Walnut, Suite A) | Sept. 15-Oct. 15
A selection of figurative sculptures and jewelry using traditional fiber arts material and/or techniques to create non-traditional forms. Curated by Gail Hale. Mon-Fri, 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. More info at 334-2464.
Hidden Closet
Fountain Square Mall, 101 W. Kirkwood | Sept. 22-24
10% off most items with your Festival wristband or pin. Mexican huipiles, garments and accessories from India, Cambodia, and elsewhere – decorate yourself for Lotus! Thurs-Fri, 11 a.m.- 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. or later on Festival nights.
Pre-Lotus Party and Live Music at Athena
116 N. Walnut | Saturday, Sept. 24, 5-6 p.m. ~ In front of Athena, Zimdiana performs on marimbas and drum set, and performs traditional Zimbabwean dance. 6-7pm ~ Mbira music + refreshments. Free.
Chalk Art at Pygmalion’s
108 N. Grant | Friday, Sept. 23, 3-6 p.m.
The sidewalk and street provide the canvas for creativity, facilitated by Kansas City chalk artist Mark Glover. Hosted by Bloomington’s independent art supply store.
Pygmalion’s will map out 25 squares for chalk-art, available on a first-come, first-served basis; store staff will judge final pieces and award prizes. Some squares will be dedicated to Monroe County student group projects. All chalk provided; art with a music theme is encouraged (but not essential). Questions? Contact Pygmalion’s Art Supplies: 812-332-0025 or artstore {at} pygmalions.com

- On the air at WFHB
WFHB 91.3/98.1 FM
(Bloomington community radio)
Catch live interviews and performances by festival artists. All day on Friday, Sept. 23.
Lotus Live on WFHB, Vol. 1 – CD Release Party
Festival Store | Friday, Sept. 23, 5:30 pm
The first-ever live Lotus compilation CD, from track recorded in the WFHB studios during the Lotus World Music and Arts Festival. Featuring Kinobe & Soul Beat Africa; Väsen; 17 Hippies; Crooked Still; Abigail Washburn; Watcha Clan; Little Cow; Chango Spasiuk; Bernard Woma; Phyllis Chen; and more.
Eat Around the Equator
First Presbyterian Church (6th & Lincoln) | Saturday, Sept. 24, 4-6:30 p.m.
Enjoy good food and great music prior to the evening’s Lotus performances. This event supports local non-profit agencies Habitat for Humanity, Area 10 Agency on Aging, and MCUM, as well as national and international mission work. Tickets available at the door; 10 tickets for $10 (food items require approx. 1-3 tickets each).
Benda Bilili! (2010)
Ryder Film Series | Oct. 6, 7:30 p.m., Root Cellar at FARM; Oct. 7-8, 7 p.m., IU Fine Arts Theater; Oct. 9, 7:45 p.m., Bear’s Place. $5. More info at Ryder
A moving story of Kinshasa street musicians who defied huge odds to develop a world following. Directed by Renaud Barret and Florent de la Tullaye
