Love it: Creative growth in Indiana

When I was younger, I always thought that Indiana was sooooo behind the times (in comparison to bigger cities like LA, NYC, Miami and Chicago) and lacked artistic expression, a sophisticated palette and an eye for fashion.  Boy, was I so wrong!  Indiana is fast becoming a contender in every genre.  We've already shown the nation we're a force to reckon with when comes to sports--football, basketball, racing.  But we're also showing a great emergence in fashion, food and drink, music, fine arts, media and I'm loving every second of it.  Recently, I've seen several Indiana restaurants featured on shows like Diners, Drive-ins and Dives as well as Man vs. Food.  Events like Midwest Fashion Week and First Fridays are more and more frequent. 

This morning, I slept in til 5am this morning after staying up too late catching up with D.  So that meant I ran out the door this morning without eating breakfast; just a glass of nonfat milk.  Although there is a cafeteria not too far from where I am, I'm going to try and hold off until lunch time (munching on Breath Savers).  Instead, the masochistic side of me decided to torture myself by reading through local Indianapolis-based food and lifestyle blogs.  I love finding talented, interesting and inspirational bloggers, make it a local or Midwestern one and I'm even more smitten.  These amazing men and women do such a wonderful job educating the public about everything that is great about Indiana or sometimes not so great.  Eventually they will land a permanent spot on my BlogRoll but until then, I want to take a moment to highlight some of my faves:

• Indianapolis Amy
• The Fitted Apron
• Thrifty Decor Chick
• The Daily Claire
• Indy Restaurant Scene
• Random Dude Eats Random Food
• Circle City Style
• FLOEats Indy

I am always on the lookout for others, so contact me if you host a blog or know of any others.  Going grocery shopping today so I hopefully will have some yummy meals to share.  Have a wonderful day!

First Friday: Carnival Night @ Wheeler Arts Center and the Shenanigans that followed

I am still trying to get used to the idea of taking pictures at all times so like a very bad blogger, I failed to take any pictures while attending First Friday at Wheeler Arts Center.  I also failed to write down artists' information including names.  Terrible.

The Wheeler Arts Center is such a cool place.  Not only is it aesthetically unique with high loft ceilings, exposed brick and industrial piping, it also houses an eclectic blend of tenants.  There is such a communal feeling and everyone is so warm and inviting.  The event was much more organized than the previous time I went.  Live DJs played music that could be heard throughout the building.  There were several open studios including my buddy Ben.  His unit was open to the public to introduce those who entered to indy Planet.  There were various mixed medias on display (and on sale) including lots of intriguing wall art, furniture , custom baby clothes designer even voodoo dolls.  To keep with the theme there were carnival style games, finger foods like popcorn and corn dogs.  One unit even offered fondue.  Just being there brings out your inner artist.  Hopefully people will post pics from the event and I will add them later.

After the event died down, we all decided to venture across the street to The Brass Ring (click here to read a previous post I wrote about how much I love that place).  We ordered a round of drinks and food.  I got the pork potstickers that I had been craving for months.  They steam them perfectly and serve a spicy ponzu sauce.  I also took a few bites of Ben and Kelly's Cajun Pizza.  Muh noshed on some enormous potato skins.  I enjoyed a extra dirty martini to wash down all the yummy goodness.



Kelly and Ben

Muh chowing down

I didn't want to call it a night so I went to Taps and Dolls, near Union Station, with Muh and John.  It was my first time there and it was pretty lively when we arrived.  DJ Topspeed was spinning.  He's an old schooler who I've enjoyed for over a decade.  We entertained ourselves on the dance floor while slamming a couple rounds of jager bombs (bad idea). 

DJ Top Speed (right)

Muh being Muh and John and some poor girl

I was totally exhausted by the time we left.  All and all, super successful night out with good peeps.  That's why I'm home in bed on a Saturday night

Get to know: indyPLANET

Please allow me to introduce you to indyPLANET, Indianapolis new-ish magazine and online social network for all that is independent and wonderful in the area.  It was created by 2 brothers, Ben and Richie, to provide Hoosiers with insight into all anti-mainstream, anti-establishment people, places and things that Indianapolis has to offer.  IP showcases the hidden gems of the city and dishes up info about what's going on while providing totally uncensored, raw, sometimes overly offensive nuggets of truth.

Me * Ben* Macy

It features some great commentary like interviews with politicians rallying for the legalization of pot to a "People to Avoid" section as well as highlighting businesses and restaurants they deem worthy.

You can pick up a copy of their latest issue tomorrow at Carnival Night at The Wheeler Arts Center.

First Friday @ Wheeler Arts Center in Fountain Square

First Fridays in Indianapolis is a calling for all creative people or at least people who like to admire creative people.  Artists from all walks of life, backgrounds and genres showcase their work on the first Friday of every month at various locations throughout downtown and Fountain Square.  It is a melding of sophistication meets urban chic where the admirers can meet and greet with the designers themselves.  It's hosted by multiple different businesses, artists and communities ranging from black tie formal to off the streets.  I'm very ashamed to say that I've only attended one previous event.  But nonetheless, I am excited about tomorrow's FF event hosted at The Wheeler Arts Center in Fountain Square.  Click here for the specifics.  Tomorrow's theme is CARNIVAL! featuring food, games, a silent auction, music and much, much more.

Fingers crossed I remember to take pictures!!!!