Start with Art

Each year, I look forward to participating in the Start with Art luncheon, which kicks off Indianapolis' arts season. It was an honor to attend this year among business associates and friends, all of whom share the belief that the arts have limitless potential to bring together people of diverse backgrounds.

I have had the opportunity to work with several arts organizations -- on a professional and volunteer basis -- to ensure that facilities, programming and exhibits are inclusive for people with disabilities, the aging population and others. It's been rewarding to be a part of so many dynamic offerings and to provide people with disabilities more variety for their entertainment dollar.

The arts encourage us to look beyond the visual characteristics that distinguish us and look deeper into exactly what it is that makes us different and how those differences can enhance our overall quality of life. In Indianapolis, the arts community is a key facilitator in helping all of us appreciate those differences.



Guests enjoying the Start with Art luncheon. Pictured from left to right are: Jennifer Mendoza, The Fehribach Group; David Jurkiewicz, Bose McKinney & Evans; Sarah Myer, NUVO; Mary Beth Fehribach, The Fehribach Group; Juli Paini, City of Indianapolis Office of Disability Affairs; Jane Henegar; Greg Fehribach; Tom Harton, Indianapolis Business Journal; Matt Gutwein, Health & Hospital Corp. of Marion County; Tony Mason, 2012 Indianapolis Superbowl Host Committee.