Monday, April 19, 2010

Mr. Smalls Art Bash preview - Online (Features)

For local artist by the name of Rev. Dashier Rocket, art is more than just an aesthetic expression of emotion – it is a celebration.

“Art is accessible to everybody,” Dashier, 32, of Greensburg, said. “Art is a celebration of culture and of who you are.”

Luckily for Dashier, Mr. Smalls Fun House in Millvale, Pa. shares his view. Dashier’s art, along side 17 other artists’ work, will be featured in Mr. Smalls’ multi-sensory Art Bash on Saturday, Feb. 20 at 7 p.m.

Eighteen artists between the ages of 20 and 40 will be featured in the event, with pieces ranging from landscape photography to pop art-inspired sketches to metallic sculptures.

“We wanted to encourage as much diverse creativity as possible,” said Lindsay Delesandro, an intern at Mr. Smalls and one of the artists being featured in the Art Bash. “No two people are alike.”

The art bash will differ from a typical art exhibit because it is a one-night-only event as opposed to a revolving exhibit, according to Delesandro. The artists will also be present to discuss their work with attendees of the event.

In addition to the art displays, the Art Bash will attempt to blend visual and audio elements for a truly unique experience. The mood will be set by local DJ e-Z Lou, whose music selection will create “a lounge atmosphere – upbeat, but not overwhelming,” according to Delesandro.

Lisa Jakab, whose oil-based painting will be featured in the exhibit, liked the idea of combining art and music, saying they “fit well together.”

Jakab’s paintings are “realistic with an abstract touch.” One of her pieces, titled “Azo Drip,” she described as having organic forms and lines, detailed texture and bright colors. This piece, as well as all others on display at the bash, will be for sale.

Many of the artists hope the laid-back atmosphere will encourage public interest in the event.

“It's a way to help support the arts in the area,” Johnny Bell, whose photography will be featured at the event, said in an e-mail. “I've taken part in a couple other gallery events, and it's opened up future opportunities. Hopefully this event will do the same for me and the other artists.”

This is the first event of its kind being held at the Mr. Smalls venue, which is known for holding mainly music concerts.

“One of the first things we did when I got here [as an intern] was to sit down and think what else the venue could be used for,” Delesandro said. “We came up with this idea, and they were really receptive of it.”

Admittance to the Art Bash costs $5 at the door and includes a complimentary drink (soda for those under 21 years of age).

“It will be a fun night out in the middle of a snow storm,” Delesandro said.

Dashier agreed.

“[These types of events] are supposed to be relaxed, a party,” Dashier said. “You should have a good time.”

*Published online for 2010 Issue 5 of The Globe. Link currently unavailable.

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