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Danielle Look is a music correspondent for NUVO Newsweekly and IndyMojo.com, a marketing student at The Kelley School of Business, and a general supporter of the local art and music scene in Indianapolis. Below, she previews this weekend’s Stutz Open House.  

The annual Stutz Open House is, by far, one of our city’s most highly anticipated events. Every April, the historic building (once a manufacturing facility for Stutz automobiles) and the talented artists who maintain studios inside of it, open their doors to the public for two nights of art gazing, shopping, and socialization. Furthermore, it’s one of the most accessible art affairs in Indianapolis, attracting families, young professionals, art aficionados, and even the proverbial starving artist. Read on for four great reasons to add The Stutz Open House to your agenda this weekend. 

Reason #1 – Indianapolis art is impressive and diverse.

The Stutz building houses studio space for over 70 artists whose art ranges from paintings, drawings and photography to sculpture, jewelry and furniture. Some artists’ work is contemporary and modern, while others stick to a more traditional approach. Some are whimsical and full of color, while others are dreary and emotive. Personal taste does not matter; there is literally something for everyone. 

Reason #2 – It’s a rare experience to step inside an artist’s studio.

An artist opening their studio doors to the public is the equivalent of a stranger flipping through a chef’s cookbooks and hanging out in his kitchen. It’s their personal space. It’s where they create. And they’re letting you- someone they don’t even know- inside of their sacred place. So firstly, be respectful. And secondly, don’t just check out their art; look at their furniture, listen to their music, and admire their overall decorative style, too.

 Reason #3 – Kill two birds with one stone: get your Christmas shopping done early and support local.

While it’s perfectly acceptable to browse the countless corridors of art as thought you were in a dreamlike gallery with never-ending rooms, it’s also customary to buy what you like right off of the walls and shelves. Purchasing handmade art made that’s been crafted locally is not just a unique way to find and give gifts, it’s also one of the best ways to support Indianapolis and keep your hard earned dollars right here in your community. 

Reason #4 – The Stutz Building is fun and unique.

Literally a labyrinth of hallways and rooms, the massive Stutz building occupies the entire city block upon which it sits. After perusing the ground floor preview gallery that showcases a single piece from selected studios, take the freight elevator (yes, I said freight elevator) to the top floor and work your way down, one level at a time, one wing at a time, one studio at a time. While it’s great fun to explore the art mecca that is The Stutz, it is essential to reemphasize the fact that it was built as a manufacturing building above all else- meaning every inch of walking space is concrete. So, wear comfortable shoes!

 Stout’s would recommend a pair of Caspians by Josef Seilbel, they’ll cushion your feet and prolongue the fun