Some would argue that Indianapolis has always catered to geek culture with long standing events like Gen Con and ASH Comic Shows, but in the last year we've seen a spike in large-scale geekiness. I can only say, "Bravo" to the brave souls out there with the guts to bring more shows and events to town that cater to the geek in all of us. While I'm sure people could stand back and pick apart the inaugural events because of some planning point missed or vendor offended, we should at least respect what the promoters are trying to do by working to establish a geek foundation in this Midwestern Mecca.
As the foundation solidifies over the coming year, I ask myself as a local creator, "What role will I play in this culture being built?". I can either sit back and patiently wait for each show to arrive, maybe set up my table, and hope for folks to visit me with a few dollars for my wares, or I can take a more active role. As Indianapolis becomes a destination for those who are in to all geek things, those of us here in town have an obligation to show visitors our talents and ability to create amazing things. But sometimes I will admit to feeling like I'm all alone in this city filled with tons of creative people, wondering what impact my books or ideas could have. This is where the importance of creating a network in Indianapolis comes into play. Find others who create in any fashion and connect with them. Look for opportunities to meet up with folks in the area and share your work, whether it be at a comic shop, game store, or meet up event. Ask others if there are cross promotional opportunities that they can think of, so you are sending new customers to each other at shows instead of being just one Indianapolis creator in a room of vendors.
I have always felt more creative after connecting with others and talking about their projects, so our goal should be to maximize that feeling all year long, not just show season. If you haven't already, join the INDYpendent Network and say to the world proudly that you are a creative person in Indianapolis!
All the best!
John Graham
As the foundation solidifies over the coming year, I ask myself as a local creator, "What role will I play in this culture being built?". I can either sit back and patiently wait for each show to arrive, maybe set up my table, and hope for folks to visit me with a few dollars for my wares, or I can take a more active role. As Indianapolis becomes a destination for those who are in to all geek things, those of us here in town have an obligation to show visitors our talents and ability to create amazing things. But sometimes I will admit to feeling like I'm all alone in this city filled with tons of creative people, wondering what impact my books or ideas could have. This is where the importance of creating a network in Indianapolis comes into play. Find others who create in any fashion and connect with them. Look for opportunities to meet up with folks in the area and share your work, whether it be at a comic shop, game store, or meet up event. Ask others if there are cross promotional opportunities that they can think of, so you are sending new customers to each other at shows instead of being just one Indianapolis creator in a room of vendors.
I have always felt more creative after connecting with others and talking about their projects, so our goal should be to maximize that feeling all year long, not just show season. If you haven't already, join the INDYpendent Network and say to the world proudly that you are a creative person in Indianapolis!
All the best!
John Graham
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