Mar 20, 2012

Food and Drink Samples a Highlight of the Indiana Artisan Marketplace

Cabernet balsamic truffles and strawberry rhubarb margaritas are just two of the new concoctions visitors can sample at the Indiana Artisan Marketplace March 31 and April 1. The brainchildren of Indiana Artisans Elizabeth Garber of The Best Chocolate in Town and Erin Edds of Hoosier Momma, respectively, the new recipes will tempt the taste buds while the works of other Hoosier artists and food artisans tickle the fancies of visitors at the popular marketplace.

The second annual event, at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, will feature the creations of more than 100 artists and food artisans whose work has been juried into the prestigious Indiana Artisan organization. In addition to the featured artisans from 40 Indiana counties, more than 50 artisans from Kentucky will participate, since the Hoosier event is modeled after an event in the Bluegrass state, Kentucky Crafted Market.

“One thing we learned our first year is people love samples,” said Peg Neal, chair of the 2012 Marketplace and a potter from Indianapolis. “This year, we’re spreading out the food and drink Artisans so folks aren’t too crowded and can really chat and get to know the Artisans.”

On the art side, Indiana Artisan Anita Hopper of ReFind Originals will have her chic handbags, brooches, headbands and home accessories made from reclaimed leather. Amy Greely will debut a jewelry series called The Colors of Summer made from copper that’s etched and colored with pencils.

For details and Web sites of the 100+ Indiana Artisans who will be at the event, visit www.IndianaArtisan.com.

About Indiana Artisan
Indiana Artisan was established in 2008 to identify and support the business development of Hoosier entrepreneurs who create high-quality arts, crafts and value-added foods. It was launched as a joint venture of the Indiana Office of Tourism Development, the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs, the Indiana Arts Commission, and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. It now is a private, not-for-profit organization.

The work of nearly 200 artisans in nearly 60 Indiana counties has been juried into the organization and is part of the Indiana Artisan brand.

WHAT: Indiana Artisan Marketplace

WHEN: Saturday, March 31, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday, April 1, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WHERE: Indiana State Fairgrounds, Expo Hall, Indianapolis

COST: $10 admission (free for children 15 and under)

INFO: www.IndianaArtisan.org