by erin thursby scopes1925@msn.com
For some reason, crowds follow crowds, so despite the map that’s readily available to all who participate in the ArtWalk, many people just follow the crowds or use the map to find one specific place. Then they wander from that location to wherever signs lead or a visible crowd is. This means that some places don’t get the same sort of crowded mob that the popular Burrito Gallery gets, just because they aren’t in the thick of things.
Explore a little more! Walk the map’s edge. Take in a part of Downtown you’ve never really explored before. There are about 40 businesses or places that participate in ArtWalk, so it’s pretty much impossible to hit them all in one night, but you can make it your mission to find the places you’ve been neglecting.
Located just across from the BellSouth Tower, Café 331 is one of the newer eateries Downtown. You’ll find artwork from Reba Craig, who uses a clever combination of photography and other media to create canvas works with some incredible post-production. You’ll also find Mike Styga, a day trader turned artist, who now does some beautiful wood turning work. A number of other artists will also be selling their wares. The Café serves delicious appetizers (real food, not crackers) and wine, so you can nibble while you look (always a plus for me).
You could always pop across the street to the BellSouth Tower after the Café. The Tower venue has been sought after by artists since ArtWalk first started, but since the center of geographical popularity has shifted, not as many people seem to wander in that direction.
If you’re into the club scene, you might have heard of TSI and the Opaq Gallery. If you haven’t heard of it, it’s on the East edge of the map. This tiny gallery opened in March, in a small room above the club. Generally, they cover a number of local artists in their small space. For this upcoming ArtWalk, they’ll be displaying a show called ‘Now!’ which will include two video installations from Cody Hughes and interactive pieces from other area artists.
Heading to the North edge of the map, you’ll find the stately and impressive Karpeles Manuscript Museum. The Director of the Museum says that they “try to schedule our art openings for ArtWalk.” Also, if the artist doesn’t object, they try to provide live music. For this ArtWalk, they’ll be featuring a photographer, Dorman Cogburn. He’s taken plenty of photos around the world. This series is special because they’re shots of the fantastical landscapes of New Zealand and because he took the entire series using only disposable cameras. Despite that, the shots are purported to be amazing.
Walking the map’s edge takes some effort, so plan ahead. If you decide to go somewhere different, park somewhere different. People often get in an ArtWalk rut because they park in the same place. Because ArtWalk is after business hours, there’s more parking then there is during the day and you have more time to explore. For a map of parking options go to downtownjacksonville.org and click on parking.
So, next time you go to ArtWalk, plan to go somewhere you’ve never been and walk to the map’s edge. Discovery doesn’t have to be a world away; sometimes it’s just a few blocks away.
The Jacksonville Jaguars will host a pep-rally in Hemming Plaza to gear up for their first home game versus the Tennessee Titans on September 9th. Expect live performances by the drum line and appearances by Jaxson de Ville and the ROAR from 6:30 – 7:30 pm. Register to win give-a-ways, including two tickets to the Monday Night game versus the Indianapolis Colts, autographed merchandise and prize packs. Season tickets and Jaguar merchandise will be available for purchase. Wear your team colors out to the Walk to support your team.
Tailgate at Gold’s Gym, enjoy barbecue and learn how to line dance. Register to win a Gold’s membership, personal training, a fruit arrangement provided by Edible Arrangements and two Club seat tickets to the Tennessee Titans versus Jacksonville Jaguars game.
The Jacksonville Public Library launches this year’s JaxREADS – The BigREAD at 6:30 pm. Nationally renowned actress Phyllis McEwen presents her one-woman show “Zora Live: An Evening with Zora Neal Hurston.”
The Official ArtWalk After Party is at The Twisted Martini. Turn in your ArtWalk map at the door for a complimentary premium cocktail, bottled or draft beer, glass of house wine, or the featured martini of the day. Must be 21 and over with proper ID and attire.
|
EU Critic’s Choice Awards
