Photo: IndyStar

Wug Laku was an Indianapolis visual artist who created in a variety of media, including photography, painting and lamp-making. From 2007 to 2013, he also ran wUG LAKU’s Studio & gARAGE at the Circle City Industrial Complex, which he turned into a refuge for artists, and into an artistic center for artists and patrons alike. Wug died on June 29, 2017, at the age of 63, due to untreated mental illness. 

Wug enriched the lives of countless artists, hosting more than 70 exhibitions featuring a majority of artists who had never had a solo show. He counseled them on every aspect of becoming a professional, while helping them keep true to their artistic vision.

Wug helped to build the burgeoning artist community that now exists at the Circle City Industrial Complex. At the time Wug moved into the space, the only other art-related businesses were Dolphin Papers and Five Seasons Studio. Now, the CCIC is home to more than 70 artist studios, galleries, and other cultural entities. 

Wug was involved in many other artists communities, galleries, and start-ups, including the Glendale Mall Artists Cooperative Gallery, County House and Garden, Art IN Hand Gallery, School 30 on Miley Ave., the Faris Building, and the Indianapolis Art Center. 

Before Wug passed away, he requested that any funds raised from the sale of his artworks go to the Arts Council of Indianapolis to support artists. Those funds helped support the Wug Laku Mental Health and Wellness Fund.