COLUMBUS, Ind. – A 10-foot-tall inflatable cat made an unexpected appearance Tuesday morning on 6th Street to promote the celebration of the 6th Street Arts Alley Parklet this Friday. The photo-worthy, oversized feline has already started drawing curious glances and selfie seekers—and it’s still waiting on a name.
The Columbus Area Arts Council (CAAC), the organization behind the Arts Alley initiative, is asking the community to assist in naming the inflatable “alley cat.” The mascot is part of a fundraising campaign to support the project.
With a $50 donation, individuals can become an official CAAC “Arts Alley Cat” and receive a commemorative t-shirt featuring original artwork by local designer Annie Shields. All proceeds benefit the programming, upkeep, and improvements to the 6th Street Arts Alley.
“Becoming an Arts Alley Cat is a simple, meaningful way to support the arts in our Downtown,” said CAAC Executive Director Brooke Hawkins. “Every contribution, big or small, helps keep this space active, welcoming, and full of creative energy.”
Those interested in submitting a name for the feline should DM the Arts Council on Instagram at @artsincolumbus. The person submitting the name selected will win an Alley Cat t-shirt.
This week’s installation culminates months of creative collaboration. Dozens of volunteers painted a dynamic ground mural stretching across 6th Street. New furniture, planters, and textiles were also added. Lulu Loquidis and Daniel Martinez of LAA Office in Columbus led the overall street design.
The inflatable cat will remain in place through the end of the week, adding a dose of whimsy to downtown Columbus while highlighting the project’s theme of community engagement.
The 6th Street Arts Alley Parklet party is this Friday, June 13, at 411 6th St., in Columbus. The Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting is at 4 p.m., followed by a reception at the 411 Gallery, food trucks, drinks, and music with Matthew Rust spinning the vinyl.
To donate or learn more about becoming an official CAAC “Arts Alley Cat,” visit artsincolumbus.org/.
