Build
As a development bonanza spreads from Fountain Square toward neighboring Twin Aire, companies are starting to build chic contemporary houses – it’s hard to miss the bold, angular homes at 1401, 1405, and 1501 English Avenue, for instance. These and other new dwellings offer views of the Indianapolis skyline for around $370,000 to $550,000.
Gallery-Hop
New kid on the block Oil Wick Studio is “probably the grungiest space in Indy,” according to its director, Josh Haines. That may sound like a hard sell, but Haines says that leadership of the nonprofit wants to stay low-budget and affordable to artists. See exhibitions from the studio’s membership – mostly recent Herron School of Art & Design and Ball State University grads – beginning in early spring. 1604 Deloss St., 317-989-7357.
Shop
If American-made, handcrafted leather products and delayed gratification are your bag, Howl & Hide has you covered. Among Christian Resiak’s stable of artisan goods are made-to-order satchels to satisfy your inner archaeologist and flasks with carefully stitched casings for the sophisticate on the go. Most orders take three to seven weeks, but limited stock is available in the store if you can’t wait. 1656 English Ave.
Gawk
Artist Mab Graves’ studio and gallery is the driving force behind the area’s buzz. Her dreamy pop surrealist artworks – featuring candy colors, doe-eyed children, and fantastic beasts – draw buyers from all over the world. But she only opens Monster Gallery’s fortress-like wooden door occasionally, so follow her social media accounts for a chance to buy a piece in person. 1702 English Ave., 317-796-4508.
Nurture
Crib some eco-friendly wooden toys, baby wraps, maternity products, and more at Toasty Baby, devoted to sustainable parenting goods. The store also offers cloth diapering classes (and a local delivery service) if you want to ditch the Pampers. 1651 English Ave., 317-426-6570.
Originally published in Indianapolis Monthly, 2018. Republished here for archival and portfolio purposes.