The Twisted House in Indianapolis: A Whimsical Work of Art

Taylor HuffWriter

Oct 20, 20261 min read
The Twisted House sculpture at the Indianapolis Art Center, a cedar-shingled house bent into an arch with tilted windows and a crooked open doorway, behind a bed of pink and red flowers

At Indianapolis Art Center, one structure instantly grabs your attention—the Twisted House. With its bent frame and gravity-defying design, this unusual attraction looks like it’s been lifted straight out of a fairytale. It’s not your typical house.

A House That Defies Reality

The Twisted House is actually a large outdoor sculpture created by artist John McNaughton. Built as part of the Art Center’s outdoor ARTSPARK, the piece was designed to blur the line between art and environment.

Constructed primarily from cedar wood, the house appears to fold in on itself, with one end dipping toward the ground while the other arches upward. Its slanted windows and crooked doorway add to the illusion, making it look as though the entire structure has been twisted mid-motion.

Step Inside the Imagination

One of the cool things about visiting the Twisted House is that you can walk right inside. Unlike many sculptures that are meant to be admired from a distance, this one invites interaction.

As you step through the tilted doorway, the warped interior creates a slightly disorienting experience. The unusual angles and curved walls play tricks on your sense of balance, making it feel like you’ve entered a playful, topsy-turvy world. It’s a favorite stop for families, photographers, and anyone who enjoys something out of the ordinary.

Where Art Meets Nature

The Twisted House sits within ARTSPARK, surrounded by trees, walking paths, and other creative installations. The natural setting adds to its charm, making the sculpture feel like part of the landscape rather than something placed within it.

This blend of art and nature is what makes the Art Center so special. Visitors can wander the grounds, discover different pieces, and experience creativity in a relaxed outdoor setting.

A Must-See Hidden Gem

If you’re exploring Indianapolis and want to see something truly unique, the Twisted House is worth adding to your list. It’s free to visit, easy to access, and offers a fun experience for all ages.

Whether you’re snapping photos, exploring with kids, or simply enjoying a walk through ARTSPARK, this quirky, twisted structure is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Frequently asked

Quick answers.

The useful details, answered clearly and without the digging.

01

Where is the Twisted House in Indianapolis?

The Twisted House is at the Indianapolis Art Center, inside the Art Center's outdoor ARTSPARK. It sits among trees, walking paths and other creative installations.

02

Is the Twisted House free to visit?

Yes. The Twisted House is free to visit, easy to access, and offers a fun experience for all ages.

03

Can you go inside the Twisted House?

Yes, you can walk right inside through its tilted doorway. The warped interior's unusual angles and curved walls play tricks on your sense of balance, which makes it feel like a playful, topsy-turvy world.

04

Who made the Twisted House?

The Twisted House is a large outdoor sculpture created by artist John McNaughton. It was built as part of the Art Center's ARTSPARK and is constructed primarily from cedar wood.

05

Is the Twisted House good for kids?

Yes. It's a favorite stop for families, photographers and anyone who enjoys something out of the ordinary, and kids can walk inside and explore it.
Taylor Huff

Taylor Huff

Born and raised in Indiana’s 574, Taylor is a business owner, farm wife, and mom who brings local heart to Get IN by giving you insider tips on the state’s hidden gems.

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