Artist Created Indiana University Football Artwork

The multimedia piece includes signatures from Curt Cignetti and Fernando Mendoza.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Philanthropy

Bold vector editorial illustration featuring layered dried rose petals and a palm leaf, representing the multimedia artwork charity project.
Artist Nick Mendel has completed a 3D multimedia artwork for an upcoming auction benefiting the Multiple Sclerosis Society. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Artist Nick Mendel has completed a multimedia artwork featuring Indiana University football. The piece is set to be auctioned to benefit the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Why it matters

The donation initiative was inspired by the artist and quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who both have mothers living with multiple sclerosis. Half of the proceeds from the upcoming sale will go toward funding research and support for the condition.

Artist Nick Mendel dedicated 1.5 to 2 months to the creation of the piece. Fifty percent of all proceeds from the sale will be donated to the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

The players

Nick Mendel

He is an artist based in Delphi who creates multimedia pieces and works with a team on project execution.

Curt Cignetti

He serves as the head football coach at Indiana University.

Fernando Mendoza

He is a college football player who signed the artwork created by Mendel.

Keagan Sieber

He is a videographer and assistant who collaborates with Mendel on the creative assembly of artwork.

Multiple Sclerosis Society

This organization funds research and provides resources for individuals living with multiple sclerosis.

The details

Mendel worked with assistant Keagan Sieber to assemble the 3D multimedia piece, which features Cignetti cigars, a figure of Jesus, rose petals, and a palm tree leaf. The artwork also carries signatures from Indiana University football coach Curt Cignetti and quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

Timeline

  1. The Indiana University football artwork is expected to head to auction in November or December 2025.

  2. Article publication regarding the completed artwork occurred in September 2026.

Market Landscape

This project reflects the broader trend of college sports brands and associated artists leveraging team visibility for philanthropic fundraising. It positions local creators within the growing ecosystem of sports-themed memorabilia and charitable engagement in Bloomington.

Local Indiana University fans and collectors will have the chance to bid on the unique multimedia piece starting in late 2025. Participating in the auction directly contributes to the fundraising goals for the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

The takeaway

Using sports-related memorabilia as a vehicle for charitable donation highlights how local talent can drive significant social impact. Enthusiasts of Indiana University sports can track the auction schedule to support the ongoing research efforts for multiple sclerosis.

Further reading

For more stories on charitable initiatives, visit our Philanthropy section.

More information

View project updates or information on the piece at the Mended Art official website.

Source note: This article includes information reported by WISH-TV | Indianapolis News | Indiana Weather | Indiana Traffic.

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