Credit: Roy Lichtenstein (American, 1923–1997), Five Brushstrokes, designed 1983–1984, fabricated 2012, painted aluminum, various dimensions. Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, Robert L. and Marjorie J. Mann Fund, Partial Gift of the Roy Lichtenstein Foundation, 2013.443A-E.4 © Roy Lichtenstein Foundation.
Centered in the front of the IMA’s main façade, Sutphin Mall and Fountain have been an Indianapolis landmark for over 30 years. Around the fountain are 17 large concrete planters filled with colorful foliage and flowering plants from April to October. A large, curved bed in front of the fountain is filled with changing seasonal displays in spring and summer. The geometric beds of the Mall contrast beautifully with the curvy, relaxed and mingled plantings of the nearby overlook, and the large blocks of a single species give the illusion that the Mall is longer than its 300 feet. The permanent plantings were chosen for their multiple seasonal interests, as all of the selections contribute something to the malls beauty at least 2 seasons of the year.