First Thursdays at the Orlando Museum of Art.

First Thursdays, at the Orlando Museum of Art is held as the name implies, is held on the First Thursday of every month. Each month has a new theme. In November, the theme was animals. David Ramiss had a wonder metal sculpture of a wasp enclosed in a plexiglass case. A beautiful model was showing off a day sculptor in progress, still on the armature. I think the sculptor wanted to work on it during the event, but he was bombarded with so many questions, that he never had time to touch the clay.

The hissing cat was unique. Someone demonstrated that if you put your fringe in the cat’s butt, it would make a noise. I explained this unique feature to several friends who stopped to talk, but they didn’t believe me. No one activated the cat for the rest of the evening. Wine flowed and the room got more and more packed. Brad Micheal Biggs gave me a quartz crystal he had mined himself. Jeff had forgot he his cell phone and he needed to borrow mine. I guess the crystal was a fair trade.

The next First Thursday is titled,

ECLECTIC KNIGHTS

VIII September 1, 2016

8th annual event for the UCF College of Arts and Humanities Alumni
Chapter. This Knight of Art will feature artwork designed exclusively by
UCF alumni, faculty and staff in a variety of media.

Presented by the Associates of the Orlando Museum of Art| which is a volunteer support group committed to expanding
Museum membership and encouraging the appreciation of the visual arts.
From 6-9 pm on the first Thursday of each month, Central Florida has an
opportunity to discover local artists, listen to live music and mingle
with an eclectic mix of people. There are cash bars serving wine, beer,
soft drinks and water, and café offerings from area restaurants.

Admission to 1st Thursdays is $10 for visitors. Admission includes
access to the Museum’s featured exhibition. Parking is free at Orlando
Loch Haven Park and overflow parking is available at the Orlando Science
Center’s parking garage for $5 per vehicle.

Creative City Project

On October 15, 2016 more than 1,000 artists and performers bring the heart of the city to life!

An adventure of unexpected creative encounters in the heart of the city. As you discover the art of the Creative City Project, artists will
invite you in to become part of the experience. The fusion of
performance and technology extend beyond the stage and into your realm. Find yourself surrounded with inspiration. Just one example is this
performance by the 100 piece CFC Arts Orchestra on 5 stages – surrounding
the audience with an immersive orchestral experience. See
artists like never before. As they unleash their creativity en masse,
the artists of the Creative City Project inspire you to live creatively
everyday.

Last year most of Orange Avenue was shut down in Downtown Orlando to accommodate this explosion of the arts. I sketched these Spanish dancers and then wandered to discover of he amazing performances all up and down Orange Avenue. There were so many act happening at once, so it was impossible to experience everything. 

ODD 4 at Stardust Video and Coffee.

The October ODD 4 (Orlando Drink and Draw), was held at Stardust Video and Coffee (1842 Winter Park Rd, Orlando, FL). This is y monthly event where artists, well, drink and Draw. There is no model is just artists working together and networking. I ordered a Big Wave beer and started to sketch. About six other artists came out to sketch. The Audubon Community Market was happening in the parking lot outside, so the place was crowded. The clientele at stardust have a layed back vibe. The guy a the end of the bar had waist long Rasta Dreads. I had quite a few beers and then I left the bar and drove home. The problem was, that I started a tab and left my credit card with the bartender. I only realized this when I got back home. It is an hour drive but, I drove all the way back to Stardust. They were still open and several artists were still there.

Wednesday Open Words at Austin’s.

When I go to Austin’s Coffee, (929 W Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park, FL), I always order an ice cold “Yak”, which is a flavor full iced coffee along with a Portobello Mushroom sandwich. I arrive a bit early, so I cs watch the Wednesday Open Words hosts clear the stag and set up the sound equipment. Heather was the host for the evening. She read first and I put he at the microphone in my sketch. Other literary types arrived, rehearsing their poetry or prose.

As always it was an entertaining and enlightening evening. I don’t understand how most people can go home from work and then isolate themselves by watching a TV in their dark living rooms. Going to these readings, I get to experience so many local stories. Open Words happens every Wednesday, get out and see what is happening in your community, and if you are brave enough, step up to the microphone.

German Lemus at Artlando.

Artlando is coming to Lock Haven Park in Orlando on October 1, 2016. They are looking are looking for innovative, interesting, talented visual and performing artists to take part in this all day event.

SPACE COST $125

WHAT YOU GET:

• 10’x10’ space for you to set up your tent, table and art!

• All the art you sell is commission free! You keep 100% of your profits!

• Entry into our competition (if you create on-site).

WHAT’S THE COMPETITION?

ARTLando is an immersive experience for our attendees where they can see art being created.

• We want you creating your art LIVE! Bring your paint, canvas and anything else you need to create your art.

• All artists that paint/create during the event will be judged and
booth fees will be used exclusively in production of the event and to
award $3000 in cash prizes to artists who place in the competition.

Winners will be chosen from a combination of judges panel and popular votes!

SUBMISSIONS DUE BY: AUGUST 31ST

At the 2015 Artlando I had to stop and watch as German Lemus painted y brand new Scion live on the lawn. He was getting close to be done when I arrived, so I sketched frantically, afraid he might put the spray can down and walk away. The car’s surfs was richly textured making a bold statement. I don’t know who drives it around today.

I participated in the first Artlando, but it rained all day long. I am debating about giving it a try again this year.

Weekend Top 6 Picks for August 27th and 28th.

Saturday August 27, 2016 

11am to 6pm Free. Big Bang Bazaar- Indie Art, Craft and Vintage Bazaar. Central Florida Fairgrounds and Exposition Park 4603 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32808. We are pleased to announce that Big Bang Bazaar (Indie Art, Crafts and Vintage Bazaar) will take place on August 27th, 2016! The event is family friendly and appropriate for all ages!

Admission and parking are free to all guests!

Big Bang Bazaar will feature a curated selection of over 200 local Indie artists and crafters, along with a free photo booth, Orlando Psycho City Derby Girls, Orlando Facial Hair Club and movies playing all day! Shoppers will find a wide variety of goods, all handmade by local artisans! Products such as clothing, accessories, jewelry, original art, art prints, housewares and much more will be available for purchase!

For more information about this event, please visit bigbangbazaar.net website, or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bigbangbazaarfl

FREE ADMISSION!

NEW INDOOR VENUE!

BIGGER AND BETTER!

Interested in VENDING??

Info can be found on our website!

www.bigbangbazaar.net

8pm to 10pm $45.95 to $74.84 When Shadows Fall. Takes place in an undisclosed private location in Orlando, Florida. Upon buying a ticket, you will receive the address. We are located roughly 15 minutes from Downtown Orlando, 15 minutes
from Universal Orlando, and 20 minutes from Walt Disney World. A thrilling new kind of interactive experience
that introduces gaming elements into a real world open environment,
highly themed and filled with characters to meet and missions to
complete.

In short: This production blends gaming and live entertainment in ways you’ve never seen before.

10pm to 2am Free. Bare Naked Butlers Official Launch Party. One80 Skytop Lounge 400 W Church St, Orlando, Florida 32801. From the Creators of Florida’s #1 Male Revue “Rock Hard Revue,” Bare Naked Butlers Party and Event Service Provides Upscale, Hunky, Male Party Hosts and More to Enhance Events with an Edgy and Modern Touch…
Enjoy:
Male Eye Candy
Pampering
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
DJ Entertainment
Specialty Drinks
… and More!

Free Admission!

www.barenakedbutlers.com


Sunday August 28, 2016

Noon to 2pm Free but get some food. Florida Gospel Jam. Fish on Fire 7937 Daetwyler Drive Belle Isle FL. Every 2nd and 4th Sunday.

3pm to 8pm Free. August Art Critique. The Barefoot Spa 801 Virginia Dr, Orlando, Florida 32803. It doesn’t matter what kind of art you do, we have had oil painters, papermakers, glass artsts, found object sculptors, video artists, watercolor painters, ceramicists, artists who draw and collage, jewelry artists, printmakers, etc. It also doesn’t matter how much experience you have. We have included artists who have never shown and artists who are nationally recognized competition winners. The point is to get people from many different styles, backgrounds, and experience levels together to talk about everyones’ work!
This is a group of artists talking as peers.The discussions have included pricing, finding materials, technique, framing, exhibition opportunities, and, yes, traditional critique. We are trying to mix different artists and get them talking about art! We will be looking at everyone’s art individually, and talk about it for about 10 minutes. I know it is short, but the idea is not only to get other people to talk about your art, but to spend the evening talking about everyone’s art!
We are looking for brand new art. By “brand new”, I mean the newest art that you have. And if you bring more than one, please make them all be part of a series. Or if they aren’t part of a series, make sure that you are prepared to talk about the art as a group.


4:30pm to 6:30pm $10 at the door. Orlando Roller Derby: Straight Jackettes VS. Thunder City. Semoran Skateway 2670 Cassel Creek Blvd, Casselberry, Florida 32707. OPCDG Presents: ORLANDO ROLLER DERBY VS THUNDER CITY DERBY SIRENS

Come watch Orlando Psycho City Roller Derby! Some of your favorite Orlando Roller Derby skaters will be taking on Thunder City!!! Doors at 4:30pm, first whistle at 5:00pm. It’ll all go down in our home rink, Semoran Skateway.

Food and BEER will be available at the snack bar; all beer and wine charitable contributions go to benefit the Greyhound Pets of America, Senior Sanctuary.

We will have a 50/50 raffle, bring some cash! Half goes to the winner and the other half goes to our game charity!

Remember to bring your own chairs; chairs with rubber bottoms are allowed on the track, high heels are not.

And don’t forget, you can take home a piece of OPCDG, with our new exciting merchandise.
After party will be directly after the game, at Friendly Confines Winter Park.

Any questions, check us out.
or email games@orlandoderbygirls.com

West Side Story rumbles into the Shakes.

West Side Story will be performed in the Margeson Theater at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater, (812 E Rollins St, Orlando, FL) from September 7th to October 9th. I Stopped into the scenic shop to see the New York City set under construction. Jeff Ferree explained that carpet had to be installed on the second tier of the set, to reduce noise as actors walked. Jeff used the lift to get a roll of carpet up and then three stage hands rolled it out. One corner hung precariously over ledge. If anyone stepped o this overhanging carpet they would fall to the stage floor. Jeff used a carpet knife to cut away the excess carpet. To try and smooth the carpet out, he leaped forward multiple times like a kangaroo to try and stretch the carpet flat. 

At the same time lights were being turned on and off from the lighting booth. Someone with a walkie talkie confirmed when the correct lights came on. A few were out of place and will likely be replaced. The large bridge like structure is part of the set that is lowered into place during the fight scenes. Jeff showed me the set rendering designed by Jim Hunter, and it will look gritty and gorgeous. Large sections of steal mesh fence need to be scavenged for stage right. There is a virtual walk through of the set which is apparently quite impressive. 

West Side Story is based on a concept of Jerome Robbins, a book by Arthur Laurents with Music by Leonard Bernstein and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. Idealistic young lovers Maria and Tony find themselves
caught between rival street gangs, the American Jets and the Puerto
Rican Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence,
and prejudice is one of the most beautiful, heart-wrenching, and
relevant musical dramas of our time. West Side Story’‘s legendary jazz,
Latin, and classical-inspired score features the treasured songs
““Something’‘s Coming,“” ““Tonight,” ““I Feel Pretty,” and ““America.“The movie came out the year I was born, and the story is still as fresh, vibrant and reliant as it was back then.”
Tickets are between $18 and $33.

Pirate Festival in Cedar Key Florida.

Terry and I drove to Cedar Key for the Pirate Festival in September of 2015. The motel had a gorgeous view overlooking the water. That first day, I hiked down to where the Pirate encampment was to be found on the map. X marks the spot. Sure enough, pirates of all shape and sizes were milling about the camp. A mini pirate ship on wheels was parked on the street. A skull and cross bones fluttered along wit the American flag in the distance. Wenches were cinched up tight, showing ample bosoms. All the pirates were a bawdy fowl mouthed lot.

I’ve heard that the pirates invaded the beach at sunrise battling Cedar Key residents. Unfortunately I didn’t witness or sketch the skirmish.  Thieves Row offered every imaginable apparel should you decide to become a pirate yourself. We spent mos of the day huddled in the shade watching musical acts performing on a white octagonal Victorian band shell. Acts included, The Bawdy Boys, Anchors Away, and Arrr Inc.

Mark Ye Calendars for the 4th Annual Invasion!
September 16-18, 2016.

When Shadows Fall Grand Opening.

After experiencing life as a Penumbra citizen, there was a Champagne reception in the original wait in area. This was I believe the office of K.C. Alexander the found of this dystopian society. Objects around the office indicated he was an educated and well traveled man. Clues about his vision for a perfect world could be found among the books and piles of paper on his desk.

Each cast member was announced and they entered the party to applause. Many actors were hard to recognize in their Orlandoan fashions. Some of the actresses wore gowns and party dressed. This was a big night, deserving a celebration. After a champagne toast, the cars and press wandered through the maze of rooms finding plenty of opportunity to mingle or sit in intimate groups to talk. For the first time I explored every of ice and chamber. I had only experienced a fraction of the amazing and intricate rooms. Each setting had hints about the occupant and the society as a whole.

I got to speak to my co-conspirator, Mallory Vance for the first time outside the playful confine of the game. She had already experienced Penumbra five times. She was doing office work for her mom, and in exchange she asked for a multi pass to When Shadows Fall. I was very fortunate to have been assigned to work beside her, since she knew her way around a bit, and she got us out of a few tight spots. To me she seemed to fit into the imagined over perfectly. After wandering through every room, I am left wanting to know more.

The cast and roll playing citizens all posed for a group photo. I can barely be seen, an artist hidden in the shadows.

Penumbra, the Perfect Futuristic Society?

When Shadows Fall is a groundbreaking first-person interactive experience that takes place in a 15,000 square foot maze of futuristic offices, labs, and a dark labyrinth. Mallory Vance and I were recruited by Daedalus (Joe Hall) to recover documents from the office of acting president Nickolai (Barry Wright). Documents we found hinted at a sordid affair with Odessa (Cassandre Heinrich). She had been a gold member of society, but she volunteered for experiments which scarred her for life and cast her as an unknown in the Labarinth. The relationship was abusive. Mallory hoped that if we kept the abusive relationship a secret, that Nikolai might one day repent and the couple could live happily ever after. She was a romantic at heart but ultimately an enabler.  Of course life never is that sweet and innocent. Besides, weren’t the only ones who knew this dark secret.

What had been described as the perfect society was less than perfect. Posters proclaimed that “After acclimation everyone has a place” and “Join our society towards good.” Our reward for joining the greater good was to be banished to the labyrinth for our anti-social behavior. Mallory was the most social of the new citizens, and of course I am an artist and therefor deserved be be part of the gold cast of society. As the unnamed, we had to give up our old name and embrace a new name, I became know as Odin and Mallory became Sarah.

In the end we all met in a public square where the true face of the society showed itself. Ideals were clouded by jealousy, rage and revenge. The misshapen underclass fought against their oppressors. Nathanael, the Minotaur (John Reid Adams) seemed the most tortured of the unnamed.  One of his prosthetic horns was broken off. His pained screams could often be heard in the halls. I clearly only experienced a fraction of the stories that could be unearthed. The experience left me yearning to learn more. One evening in Penumbra only begins to scratch the surface. You have to experience it for yourself.