On Wednesday, October 21, David Steele presented “T.C. Steele – A Brief Portrait Portfolio”, for “Prop Day” at the Indianapolis Propylaeum. This presentation provided a brief introduction to several portraits painted by Hoosier Group artist Theodore Clement Steele (1847 – 1926).
Known by many as an American Impressionist painter and for his Indiana landscapes, this presentation examined another important, but often overlooked side of Steele’s many talents. Portraits painted by Steele included politicians, business leaders, educators, and the Propylaeum’s own May Wright Sewall.
Several portraits presented are not in public view and this provided a rare chance to see these portraits of people who have left a meaningful contribution to the city of Indianapolis, and the state of Indiana.
About the Propylaeum
On June 6, 1888, a corporation was formed to buy building to be used for literary, artistic, scientific, industrial, musical, mechanical, and educational purposes, and to provide a center of cultivation for the public, and particularly the women of Indianapolis. The board of directors was hosen and May Wright Sewall, who had introduced this idea, was named president. The name “Propylaeum”, a Greek word meaning “gateway” was chosen at the name.
The Indianapolis Propylaeum
1410 North Delaware Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202
(317) 638-7881
www.thepropylaeum.org