Greatness, Indianapolis 11/12/16

I was invited by my dear friends Michael Milano & Elisabeth Smith to participate in their Syntax Season project, hosting language-based art exhibitions at the PRINTtEXT periodical shop in Indianapolis. My show aligned with election week (though a few days after the big day) so I thought it would be appropriate to address issues of the campaign.

Here’s the press release (written on 11/1):

The notion of greatness in America has been was hijacked as an empty campaign slogan in the 2016 election cycle. For me, one of our greatest strengths as a country is our openness to folks from beyond our borders. Though portrayed by a certain presidential candidate president elect as criminals, rapists, and terrorists, an overwhelming majority of immigrants seek the same opportunities that were afforded to other generations of once-outsiders—a chance to make a decent wage or run their own business; raise their children in a safe neighborhood with good schools. And in turn, what makes us even greater is the awesome blend and variety of cultures that has come to be the face of contemporary America.

As a food writer and chef, I believe that a good way to find understanding and appreciation for other cultures is by exploring their culinary traditions. And from big cities to not-as-big cities to small farming communities, the tastes of America are expanding. By seeking out different foods, we can connect with neighbors and folks living on roads-less-traveled (to us) alike. This is a simple step, but it could help us find some cultural unity and healing that, frankly, we need in light of the turmoil of this current political climate.

I am fortunate to have a network of like-minded foodies with a strong base in Indianapolis. These friends introduced me to Asian Snack, Bombay Bazaar, and Jamaican Jerk: three remarkable eateries run by immigrants, new and not-so-new to the city, serving mind-expanding-ly delicious food to their communities with true hospitality towards newcomers.

Patties from Jamaican Jerk

For the Greatness project, I asked the owners of these businesses—Wen Hua, Ejaz Abidi, and Kahni Harris, respectively—what they thought was great about America, and their answers will be rendered as hand-painted signs, publicly visible in the storefront windows of PRINTtEXT. I encourage all to go sample a plate of Gelashen-style chicken, Biryani, or Jerk ribs at their respective businesses, and taste the Greatness of the cultural mosaic that is America.

I had originally planned to host a dinner at Asian Snack after the opening, but as it turned out, a Trump Resistance Rally was being staged at the state capitol building that evening. It seemed appropriate to offer the opening as a space to gather and make protest signs before the demonstration, to which many of us headed afterwards.

8 year old Elle Winship gets in on the action “Peace is my Protest”

My favorite sign by Elle’s sister Imzy.