Eagle Rock Trends for 2013

With Eagle Rock identified as the Patch asked local business owners and arts leaders for their predictions for 2013.

Here are some trends to look forward to in art, comedy, fashion, flowers, food and drink in the Northeast L.A.'s Mayberry:

Laura Marchetti, Director of Education, :

"I curate some of the shows [at the Center] and there’s a move towards the experiential and the interactive—more media, more technology, more global awareness. In terms of educational trends, there’s a lot more integration of science and art."

Jeff Thiel, Co-owner, THE CAPRI ITALIAN RESTAURANT:

"People are looking for good quality from small, local businesses—people want to support the small guy. They’re also looking for healthy choices, so we’ve started featuring whole wheat pasta and pizza."

Elayne Sawaya, Event Director, AUNTIE EM’S KITCHEN:

"People are going with tray-passed appetizers rather than a sit-down dinner at events. It allows people to walk around and mingle but also saves money. A lot more people are asking for gluten free [items]."

Leanna Lin, Jewelry Designer/Owner, LEANNA LIN’S WONDERLAND: 

"This is what I'll be doing for my next Leanna Lin jewelry line. I'm always inspired by what high-fashion teens are wearing and now that Gossip Girl has ended I'm looking at The Carrie Diaries and at 80's fashion a la Andy Warhol/Interview magazine days: Statement jewelry; chunky, clear baubles; bold contrast colors, like black and white, black with brights, white with brights; geometrical shapes."

Thomas Galvin, Owner, EAGLE ROCK HOMEBREWING SUPPLY:

"For 2013, I believe there will be continued interest in home brewing as more and more people get interested in craft beer. In terms of major home brewing trends, I think it will continue to fall into two distinct paths: Those looking to make hoppier and stronger beers, and those looking to create unique Belgian or other types of unique ales. There is certainly no limit to my customers’ creativity. I have had many strange flavor combinations over the past year, and I think 2013 will continue that trend."

Rick Green, Owner, TAPESTRY Natural Life:

"People’s global influences are coming from all different directions. They come in to the store and if they like what they see, they’re open to other design influences."

Sharon Kroner, Co-owner, OWL TALK: 

"Maybe it’s because of Boardwalk Empire but anything 1920’s is popular. Another trend is color-blocking—different colors put together—a la Seventies and Eighties."

Kathleen Kroner, Co-owner, OWL TALK: 

"Folks who collect vintage for themselves are looking for designer/couture labels. Buyers from New York shop in our store—not often enough—and the last major buyer picked up a lot of Nineties 'bandage style' dresses. Vintage ethnic, Indian, Ikat, Guatemalan are on trend."

Craig Powell, Floral Designer/Owner, POLLEN BOTANIAL DESIGN:

"I'm working with contrasts this year. Zincs, copper, woods, and barks make up some of the new base elements. I'm working with some classic flowers and interesting blends of colors. The peony, parrot tulip, and anemone [as well as] grays, greens, and hues of purple are favorites. Expanding into minerals and aromatherapy has also excited Pollen’s fans and clients. Matching florals to candle aromatherapy scents allow us to intensify the botanical experience. For Valentine's Day, our motto is ‘Say I do” again.' We feature a tight, elegant wedding bouquet, silked, and presented in a tube case. It’s a delightful still life of florals meant to bring back memories, passion, and the feelings of that special day."

Bobbie Oliver, comedian, producer, creator of The Tao of Comedy book and studio:

"Comedians are taking more of a DIY approach to their art now. With podcasts, web series on YouTube, self-released DVDs and CDs, blogs, web sites, self-produced live shows, self-published books etc, we aren't waiting around for opportunities to find us anymore. We are making our own opportunities. Comedy seems to be getting back to authenticity. While there are still wacky and hack acts out there, I am seeing more and more comics playing it closer to the vest and being more real: conversational vs. presentational, truth vs. an act. More and more comedy is taking place outside of comedy clubs. While comedy clubs are still a huge part of the comedy industry, many big stars are opting for smaller, more intimate, more punk rock type venues and speakeasies. Finally, there are more female-driven productions making it to TV and film now. This trend is moving slowly and has yet to prove itself long-term. However, I am hopeful that women are becoming equal players in the comedy scene."