At James Whitcomb Riley School 43, art is not confined to the classroom. Cafeteria worker Anika Evans uses her breaks to sketch and paint in the cafeteria, often drawing inspiration from the students themselves. Her creative sessions attract curious onlookers and encourage students to see artistic expression as part of everyday life.
“It is a joy sharing my art with the students,” Evans said. “They truly helped me develop because I use them as models, and I’ve gotten good at my cartoon sketches because the students let me practice by creating cartoon sketches of them.
“It’s important that they see the process of creating art,” she said. “I want them to know everything around them is art.”
Evans has been interested in art since childhood, developing her skills through constant practice. In high school, she painted a portrait titled Fraternal featuring herself and her twin sister, which was chosen for an art show—a moment that boosted her confidence. Over time, she continued painting family portraits and now primarily works with acrylics while experimenting with cartoon-style sketches. She hopes to illustrate children’s books in the future.
James Whitcomb Riley School 43 is located in Indianapolis’s Butler-Tarkington neighborhood and serves Pre-K through eighth grade. The school recently transitioned into a visual and performing arts magnet under Indianapolis Public Schools’ Rebuilding Stronger initiative. This change has given students more opportunities to explore creative disciplines as part of their education.
“I have noticed changes in how the students view art,” Evans said. “They are starting to understand that everything around them is art. Art is music. Art is math. Art is science. Art is literature.”
Principal Crishell Sam leads School 43’s efforts to integrate creativity throughout its programs while maintaining academic standards.
The principal praised Evans for leading a girls’ mentoring group aimed at fostering positive relationships among students and supporting a healthy school environment.
“Also, she consistently shows her commitment to our students by supporting after-school events such as school performances and athletic events,” Sam said. “Her dedication strengthens our community and provides meaningful opportunities for student growth beyond the classroom.”
The school underwent $5.5 million in renovations that added specialized spaces like a dance studio, orchestra room, theater, and stage for creative learning experiences. It also received a $10,000 arts grant used for projects such as hosting the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus—an event where students recorded music and produced videos.
Now entering its second year as an arts-focused institution, James Whitcomb Riley School 43 continues working toward its mission of making creativity accessible across all areas—including during lunch breaks.
