Newfields to Close 'The Lume' to Reinvest in Art Focus

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  House and Home on Tue, Mar 17th, 2026 by The Indianapolis Star
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Newfields to Dim the Lights on The Lume, Reaffirming Commitment to Core Artistic Mission

Indianapolis, IN - March 17, 2026 - Newfields, the renowned Indianapolis art and nature park, announced today that it will be closing its highly successful immersive light experience, The Lume, after a five-year run. The final opportunity for visitors to experience the digital art spectacle will be March 30, 2026. The decision, while met with some anticipation given initial statements about its temporary nature, marks a significant strategic shift for the institution as it doubles down on its foundational mission of showcasing world-class art.

Since its debut in 2021, The Lume has captivated audiences with its immersive projections of iconic artworks, transforming the galleries into living canvases. The exhibit quickly became a cultural phenomenon, attracting over 400,000 visitors in 2025 alone and generating a substantial $8 million in annual revenue. Its popularity undeniably broadened Newfields' reach, drawing in a new demographic previously less engaged with traditional art museum experiences. The Lume provided a dynamic and accessible entry point for many, particularly families and younger audiences, introducing them to the world of art in a novel and engaging format.

However, Newfields CEO Jon Seufert emphasizes that The Lume was always conceived as a finite project. "The Lume has been a very important part of Newfields' story over the past five years," Seufert stated in a press release. "It brought in a whole new audience and gave us a great opportunity to experiment. But we've always stated that it was a temporary project." This planned sunsetting of the immersive experience allows Newfields to strategically reinvest resources into areas aligning more directly with its long-term artistic goals.

The rationale behind the closure isn't simply financial, though the $8 million revenue stream is significant. Instead, it's a conscious effort to reaffirm Newfields' core identity as a premier art institution. "We want to focus on what we do best, which is art," Seufert explained. The funds liberated by discontinuing The Lume will be directly channeled into bolstering existing art exhibitions, expanding educational programming, and supporting acquisitions that enrich Newfields' permanent collection.

What's Next for Newfields?

The closure of The Lume coincides with a broader initiative to enhance the visitor experience focused on the museum's traditional strengths. Newfields is currently developing a series of ambitious exhibitions for 2026 and 2027, including a major retrospective of contemporary sculpture planned for the fall of 2026. Furthermore, the institution is investing in upgrades to its conservation labs, allowing for more in-depth study and preservation of its art holdings.

The commitment to educational programming is also being strengthened. Newfields plans to expand its art education workshops for children and adults, offering more opportunities for hands-on learning and creative exploration. The gardens, a defining feature of Newfields, will also benefit from increased investment, with plans for new horticultural displays and expanded accessibility features.

While The Lume's departure may disappoint some, Newfields anticipates that the renewed focus on its core artistic mission will ultimately benefit the community. The institution believes that by prioritizing high-quality art exhibitions and robust educational programs, it can continue to inspire, educate, and engage audiences for generations to come. The move also positions Newfields more clearly within the landscape of national art museums, emphasizing its commitment to preserving and showcasing artistic heritage.

Tickets for the final viewings of 'The Lume' are currently available for purchase through March 30. Newfields is encouraging visitors to take one last journey through the immersive experience before it concludes. Details regarding upcoming exhibitions and programs can be found on the Newfields website: https://www.newfields.org/.