WHAT IS
THE CREATIVE ECONOMY?
The creative economy is an ecosystem where innovation, creativity, and commerce converge to generate cultural, social, and economic value.
GET TO KNOW US
WHO IS PATTERN?
FROM CREATIVE HUB TO ECONOMIC ENGINE
BY POLINA OSHEROV
THE JOURNEY SO FAR
The journey of Pattern has been nothing short of a wild adventure. From its inception, Pattern has championed the creative community in Indy—fostering talent, amplifying voices, and advocating for creatives across disciplines. But here’s the raw truth: being a beacon for creativity in central Indiana comes with challenges. Our most promising artists, designers, writers, and musicians still tend to leave for bigger markets—not because they want to, but because they feel they have to in order to grow.
THE TALENT CONUNDRUM
I’ve seen it time and again: talented creatives join Pattern, skeptical about what Indiana can offer. Through our community, they discover new possibilities. They start to see a future here. But the reality is—especially in film, fashion, design, and music—our creative infrastructure hasn’t kept up. There's a ceiling, and it's low. Without scalable opportunities, they outgrow the market. This talent drain keeps Indiana from reaching its full creative and economic potential.
WHY THIS MATTERS NOW
The world is changing—fast. AI is upending traditional roles in STEM fields, automation is displacing mid-level jobs, and employers are seeking creative thinkers who can adapt, communicate, and innovate. Ironically, just as creativity becomes the most critical skill for the future workforce, Indiana has dropped the arts from public school graduation requirements. That’s not just shortsighted—it’s dangerous. We’re cutting off the pipeline to exactly the kind of talent we’ll need most.
HOW PATTERN HAS EVOLVED
After more than a decade of building a creative community, it became clear that exposure and connection—while valuable—aren’t enough. Our state needs strategic, sustainable infrastructure to help creatives grow businesses, scale ideas, and stay rooted in Indiana.
That’s why Pattern has evolved. Today, we’re focused on catalyzing the creative economy statewide—supporting not just artists, but also creative entrepreneurs, innovators, and founders. Indiana’s creative output is already over $10.2 billion. With intentional investment, we could double that. Creativity isn’t fluff—it’s serious economic development.
We believe in building a coordinated strategy, grounded in timely data, backed by bold champions, and driven by real collaboration between public, private, and civic sectors. We’ve seen what Indiana can do with sports. Now imagine applying that same muscle to creativity.
THE CALL TO ACTION
Here’s where you come in.
Pattern—and the creative economy it represents—needs your help.
You can start by using your voice and networks to celebrate the economic impact of Indiana’s creatives. If you're a seasoned pro ready to mentor, reach out. If you’re an investor looking for the next big idea, we know people. If you’re a policymaker, consider how creativity can solve some of our biggest economic challenges. And if you’re a neighbor who simply believes in beauty, innovation, and community—your donation goes a long way.
Let’s build a state that grows and keeps its talent. One that doesn’t just survive economic disruption—but leads through it. One that’s known for gutsy ideas, bold creativity, and smart investment.
There’s a new Pattern emerging. Let’s shape it together.
STAY IN THE LOOP!
