In their continuing endeavor to bring the creativity found throughout the North Eastern PA area to fruit, The School of Visual and Performing Arts (SVPA) in Stroudsburg, PA held a reception showcasing the work of local artists in their current exhibition titled, “Beyond the Harvest” on Saturday October 18th. The slight chill in the air reflecting the season was warmed by the hospitable atmosphere that greeted those who entered the school’s gallery and the glow found in the conversations that ensued brought a further coziness to the intercourse that was shared. In addition to the art that was on display, the evening provided a variety of entertainment as presented by The Diane Verdi Ballet Class and Guitarist Renard Cohen of Son of Blues www.facebook.com/pages/Son-of-the-Blues/412836085403255 along with delicious culinary fare provided by Flying Merswine Catering www.facebook.com/pages/Flying-Merswine/368792593272368?ref=br_tf and wine that was donated to the event by Burnt Toad Studios www.facebook.com/burnttoadstudios.
A majority of the pieces presented in the exhibition captured the flavor of the modern conceptions of the Halloween Season which encouraged the imagination of each viewer to flow into the macabre scenes the work depicted until the experience of delving into its horror sent a delightful chill down one’s eagerly awaiting spine. Yet, there were a number of works which embraced the colorful hues of the season that allowed the spirit of the viewer to blossom so its divine and ripened attributes could be gathered and feasted upon whenever one hungers for its sustaining essence. The combination of these and other approaches to the exhibition’s theme deftly implied a sense of an encapsulating unity between the natural and the supernatural worlds leading many to transcend the sepia landscapes of their ordinary existence and to view life more intuitively.
As the delightful din of conversations reflecting the artistic qualities of the display echoed around the school, attention was given to the gallery’s curator, Jody Singer, who shared his welcoming remarks with the gathering along with news of future endeavor the establishment and other art related entities were soon embarking upon. One of these endeavors were the school’s Marker’s Market which will be held on November 8th and 9th featuring a weekend filled with artisanal goods, crafts, art, and more. There was also the introduction of a new store that recently opened on the town’s main street called, “Puff’s Magic Shoppe” www.facebook.com/puffsmagicshoppe which is a “retail/hippie/head shop” offering a variety of pipes, hookahs, clothing, tapestries, groovey gifts, novelty items, and more to all who venture into their cheerful domain.
It was soon after Mr. Singer concluded his remarks did Ms. Diane Verdi take the stage to introduce the students from her Ballet Class. In a preview of the class’s participation in The Northeast Ballet Ensemble www.facebook.com/NortheastBalletEnsemble production of “The Nutcracker,” the dancers floated across the floor with each step touching upon the imagination of each viewer encouraging the childlike spirit within to join in the joyous movement. Ms. Verdi shared with the audience the history of ballet as the dancers retreated after each segment they performed in order to prepare themselves for the next.
In these historical tellings, Ms. Verdi revealed ballet began as a male dominated performance with women placed upon the stage as a primarily decorative function. Later, women became a more pronounced presence in ballets and chose to rid themselves of the restrictive garments and undergarments indicative of the time in order to move about more gracefully. This led to the hemline of skirts to move above the ankle which attracted many men to the performances. As the inches of the ballerinas’ hemlines moved higher in their numbers, so did the attendance numbers among the artistic form’s male patrons. However, the modern day audience, according to Ms. Verdi, has fewer men attending which is an unfortunate reality. So, the men who were present during the reception were called upon to bravely go against the trend and partake of the beauty found in the artistic form of ballet.
A full performance of #“The Nutcracker” by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky will be presented at The Notre Dame High School in East Stroudsburg, PA December 6th and 7th as performed by The Northeast Ballet Ensemble. In addition to preparing for #“The Nutcracker” performance, Ms. Verdi shares her extensive knowledge of the art form of dance through the classes she conducts at the school. You can learn more information about them, how to reserve your place by registering for them, and learn how to obtain tickets to attend the performance of “The Nutcracker” by calling 570-619-4113 or by emailing her at D1108@ptd.net.
It was as the delights embodied in the segmental performances of the work danced inside the heads of the denizens of the gallery did Renard Cohen and his guitar began to prepare for their performance. The music that flowed from Mr. Cohen and his instrument enhanced the mood of the room and all who inhabited it. The songs he played ranged from those that engaged the listener through their sweet and mellow tones to those whose raucous rhythms moved the body in synchronization to their gregarious beats. It was during his performance did the 9pm hour grew near indicating the time for the much awaited Art Raffle would soon be experienced.
Last minute purchases were made by those who vied for the winning tickets so they could obtain one of the many works of art that was donated for the occasion. Before the commencement of the proceedings was announced, Froilan Kali Ramirez shared news of his class titled, “An Introduction To Latin Rhythms” will soon begin at The School of Visual and Performing Arts and an invitation was extended to partake of the lessons that could be learned through the art. The conclusion of this sharing led to Mr. Singer officially announcing the beginning of the Art Raffle and the first of many items were introduced.
During their introductions, Ms. Ashley Fontones and Ms. Elizabeth Starship graciously held each item elegantly aloft and therefore enhanced the magnificence of the piece with their profound beauty. The tickets were read and the crescendo of excitement grew until the last digit revealed the winning ticket’s owner. A pang of disappointment filled the room until it was replaced by an enthusiastic congratulations to the person who obtained the coveted item. As the last of the items were presented to those who held the winning tickets, farewells were shared as the company of art lovers reluctantly made their way out of the gallery so they could take the memories of the evening home. You’ll find more photographs taken during the Artists’ Reception in The SVPA 2014 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152519973960421.1073741905.636000420&type=1.
The School of Visual and Performing Arts is located in Stroudsburg, PA and has been instrumental in the creative development of its students for over 20 years. The facility holds classes in dance, ballet, and movement led by Diane Verdi, Paula Heeschen, and Kathy Kroll as well as classes in the theater arts led by Jazmin Ospa and Shellie Bransford. The school also offers a number of workshops with each focusing on a variety of creative disciplines. You can learn more about The School of Visual and Performing Arts by exploring their Website at www.schoolofvisualandperformingarts.org or their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/schoolofvisualandperformingarts.
The exhibition titled, “Beyond The Harvest” will be on display in The School of Visual and Performing Arts until December 15th. Although the attendance of the Artists’ Reception was more modest than usual, the energies shared through the viewing of the work, the performances that were enjoyed, and the conversation the event inspired made attending the gallery for the evening much more than a worthwhile endeavor. Their next exhibit is titled, “Winter’s Wishes” with an Artists’ Reception scheduled for Saturday December 20th beginning at 6pm. The date upon which the exhibit will continue to be on display is yet to be announced. All area artists are welcomed to participate by placing their work related to the theme in the exhibit. The drop off dates are December 18th and 19th. Please contact Jody Singer at mountainsidearts@hotmail.com for more information.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Monday, October 06, 2014
Partying in the Street of Art
On Saturday May 24th 2014, a group of artists stood before a large paneled wall running along the 600 block of the Main Street section in Stroudsburg, PA. Armed with brushes, paint, and imagination they began to adorn the street with murals paying homage to the businesses that were effected by a devastating fire that occurred on the site in 2006. This monumental endeavor became known as Project Street Art: Part I.
On Saturday September 27th 2014, another group of artists endeavored upon Project Street Art: Part II which consisted of creating murals of various designs and depictions upon structures located in 10 different sites in the Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg, PA area. As with Project Street Art: Part I, the day of the painting event was filled with colors, imagination, creativity, and inspiring conversation. However, a great deal of music which was performed by a number of musicians who rotated from one site to another was added to the event which enhanced the experience greatly.
It was with Project Street Art: Part I and Part II as a backdrop did The SOHO in the Burg in Stroudsburg, PA www.facebook.com/sohointheburg host an After Party on Friday October 3rd which afforded art lovers throughout the community an opportunity to meet the artists who participated in the Projects and those who supported their endeavors. The large gallery was filled with conversations and excitement while the gathering of friends previously established and newly met munched upon the variety of tasty morsels provided by Flying Merswine Catering www.facebook.com/pages/Flying-Merswine/368792593272368?ref=br_tf which is located in East Stroudsburg, PA. Lines of chairs were set up so those who were present could experience a celebratory ceremony which was designed to honor those involved in Project Street Art.
I arrived at the gallery as Shane Izykowski (founder and driving force of Project Street Art) was concluding his welcoming remarks to the audience and was in the process of introducing Jeff Kash, ESQ who is the President of The Pocono Arts Council www.facebook.com/poconoartscouncil with whom Project Street Art has partnered with. His words added insight to the significance of the endeavor while inspiring those who heard his thoughts to explore their own creative natures and how they could be utilized for the betterment of the community. The conclusion of his sentiments were followed by a series of awards and plaques distributed in recognition of the tremendous talent and dedication the receiver gave to the endeavor.
The presentations began with those who assisted the artists who created the murals in their work. Each recipient has gained the reputation in the artistic community through their own creative endeavors and their skillful hands lovingly assured the high standards of quality the murals they assisted with would be established and maintained. The presentations continued as individuals such as Fran O’ Hagan who provided food for the artists during the days of the events, Andrew Oldfield who provided help wherever he happened upon while riding on his bicycle, Tassy Gilbert who acted as a liaison and melded the partnership of The Pocono Arts Council and Project Street Art so their level of cooperation could be at it’s most productive, Sean Soulo of Sean Soulo Photography www.facebook.com/soulostudios who served as the official photographer for the event, Flying Merswine Catering whose quality of their cuisine was evident in the emptiness of the trays they were contained in when I arrived at the gallery, and others humbly accepted their award as they reciprocated the love in which it was given.
Awards were also given to the musicians who participated in the Project Street Art II event as their presence added a dimension to the day they shared their talents with the visual artists and proved to be an inspiring backdrop to those who heard their songs. They included Juggernaut String Band www.facebook.com/JuggernautStringBand, Woodrow www.facebook.com/wearewoodrow, and Renard Cohen along with the many others who were not present during the ceremony. Awards were also given to the businesses who had given their permission to have their exterior was touched by the artists’ hands. They included Studio 8 which located on 6th Street, Lockwood Village which is located on Ann Street in Stroudsburg, PA, and many others.
Additional awards were presented to a number of individuals and groups before the artists who created the murals were called upon to accept their prestigious gifts. Those Artists who were present to do so included Jill Swersie, Rin Lack, Addam Rae Wolff www.facebook.com/addambombb?fref=ts, Sean Turrell, Nova Chan, Anna Kaszupinski, Joy Taney, and Adia Gibbs. Those who were not present due to creative commitments they endeavored to fulfill in other parts of the country included Illma Gore www.facebook.com/tomfoolery.art and The Chroma Dolls www.facebook.com/chromadolls. The loving arms of appreciation extended from the audience as their heartfelt applause filled the air with the soulful dreams the artists’ work had inspired.
The evening continued as special words were shared by those intimately connected with Project Street Art and are instrumental to its enduring success. They were Jody Singer mountainsidearts@hotmail.com, Sonia Leticia www.facebook.com/SoniaLeticiaArt, Ashley Catherine Fontones www.isashleyfontonesapotato.com, and Shane Izykowski. Their collective and individual insights to the intricacies of Project Street Art provided an everlasting understanding and affection for the endeavor among the gathering which enhanced their desire to support it and its future manifestations. This support was expressed in a number of spontaneous sharings from members of the audience which included some rousing words given by noteworthy artist Shawn Queenan and the gallery’s owner, Andrea Robbins Rimberg, who took the stage to express her exuberant, heart felt support while reminding the gathering that the work Shane Izykowski and his Project Street Art compatriots have done has changed the face of Stroudsburg, PA forever.
It was after these thoughtful sentiments did Shane share the much anticipated news of what Project Street Art will do next. The first announcement was the establishment of an Application known as the Art Map App that could be downloaded and accessed through the technology found on Smart Phones and similar electronic devices. The Art Map App will contain information about the sites of the murals that were created as part of Project Street Art Part I and II as well as art related events and opportunities initiated by the entire local creative community. The second announcement related to a calendar that is currently being produced featuring images of the murals that were created during the Street Art Projects. The final announcement related to an endeavor Project Street Art hopes to embark upon in the near future which would be to increase the number of art galleries throughout Monroe County so local artists and art lovers could experience more exposure to the vast creative estuaries of the imagination.
It was with these final enticing glimpse into the future did the ceremonial aspects of the evening come to a conclusion. Those who stayed after the removal of the chairs to share their person to person expressions of thanks and admiration to those involved in the evening’s festivities danced and laughed during the remainder of the night away while music played from the apparatus skillfully maneuvered by DJ AddamBombb (aka Addam Wolff). The remainder of the evening also included a Photo Op session which took placed in front of a setting resembling a wall with the Project Street Art insignias upon it. Attendees were encouraged to pose to have their photograph taken by the event’s official photographer. The mixture of dancing, laughing, and posing eventfully led to the party’s conclusion with those leaving the scene filled with the anticipatory thoughts of the future of Project Street Art and it’s life giving effects on the local creative community. You’ll find more photographs taken during the Project Street Art After Party in the Special Events 2014 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152230295395421.1073741876.636000420&type=1.
Project Street Art was initiated by members of Stroudsburg’s creative community who are led by Shane Izykowski. As mentioned earlier, Project Street Art has created an Art Map App that can be downloaded and accessed by Smart Phones and other devices, will soon produce a calendar reflecting their achievements, and will be soon assisting those who would like to establish art galleries in their abodes. Project Street Art welcomes all art lovers to participate in the planning and execution of their endeavors. To learn more about Project Street Art along with how you can participate and support their future endeavors, please explore their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/projectstreetart?ref=br_tf.
On Saturday September 27th 2014, another group of artists endeavored upon Project Street Art: Part II which consisted of creating murals of various designs and depictions upon structures located in 10 different sites in the Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg, PA area. As with Project Street Art: Part I, the day of the painting event was filled with colors, imagination, creativity, and inspiring conversation. However, a great deal of music which was performed by a number of musicians who rotated from one site to another was added to the event which enhanced the experience greatly.
It was with Project Street Art: Part I and Part II as a backdrop did The SOHO in the Burg in Stroudsburg, PA www.facebook.com/sohointheburg host an After Party on Friday October 3rd which afforded art lovers throughout the community an opportunity to meet the artists who participated in the Projects and those who supported their endeavors. The large gallery was filled with conversations and excitement while the gathering of friends previously established and newly met munched upon the variety of tasty morsels provided by Flying Merswine Catering www.facebook.com/pages/Flying-Merswine/368792593272368?ref=br_tf which is located in East Stroudsburg, PA. Lines of chairs were set up so those who were present could experience a celebratory ceremony which was designed to honor those involved in Project Street Art.
I arrived at the gallery as Shane Izykowski (founder and driving force of Project Street Art) was concluding his welcoming remarks to the audience and was in the process of introducing Jeff Kash, ESQ who is the President of The Pocono Arts Council www.facebook.com/poconoartscouncil with whom Project Street Art has partnered with. His words added insight to the significance of the endeavor while inspiring those who heard his thoughts to explore their own creative natures and how they could be utilized for the betterment of the community. The conclusion of his sentiments were followed by a series of awards and plaques distributed in recognition of the tremendous talent and dedication the receiver gave to the endeavor.
The presentations began with those who assisted the artists who created the murals in their work. Each recipient has gained the reputation in the artistic community through their own creative endeavors and their skillful hands lovingly assured the high standards of quality the murals they assisted with would be established and maintained. The presentations continued as individuals such as Fran O’ Hagan who provided food for the artists during the days of the events, Andrew Oldfield who provided help wherever he happened upon while riding on his bicycle, Tassy Gilbert who acted as a liaison and melded the partnership of The Pocono Arts Council and Project Street Art so their level of cooperation could be at it’s most productive, Sean Soulo of Sean Soulo Photography www.facebook.com/soulostudios who served as the official photographer for the event, Flying Merswine Catering whose quality of their cuisine was evident in the emptiness of the trays they were contained in when I arrived at the gallery, and others humbly accepted their award as they reciprocated the love in which it was given.
Awards were also given to the musicians who participated in the Project Street Art II event as their presence added a dimension to the day they shared their talents with the visual artists and proved to be an inspiring backdrop to those who heard their songs. They included Juggernaut String Band www.facebook.com/JuggernautStringBand, Woodrow www.facebook.com/wearewoodrow, and Renard Cohen along with the many others who were not present during the ceremony. Awards were also given to the businesses who had given their permission to have their exterior was touched by the artists’ hands. They included Studio 8 which located on 6th Street, Lockwood Village which is located on Ann Street in Stroudsburg, PA, and many others.
Additional awards were presented to a number of individuals and groups before the artists who created the murals were called upon to accept their prestigious gifts. Those Artists who were present to do so included Jill Swersie, Rin Lack, Addam Rae Wolff www.facebook.com/addambombb?fref=ts, Sean Turrell, Nova Chan, Anna Kaszupinski, Joy Taney, and Adia Gibbs. Those who were not present due to creative commitments they endeavored to fulfill in other parts of the country included Illma Gore www.facebook.com/tomfoolery.art and The Chroma Dolls www.facebook.com/chromadolls. The loving arms of appreciation extended from the audience as their heartfelt applause filled the air with the soulful dreams the artists’ work had inspired.
The evening continued as special words were shared by those intimately connected with Project Street Art and are instrumental to its enduring success. They were Jody Singer mountainsidearts@hotmail.com, Sonia Leticia www.facebook.com/SoniaLeticiaArt, Ashley Catherine Fontones www.isashleyfontonesapotato.com, and Shane Izykowski. Their collective and individual insights to the intricacies of Project Street Art provided an everlasting understanding and affection for the endeavor among the gathering which enhanced their desire to support it and its future manifestations. This support was expressed in a number of spontaneous sharings from members of the audience which included some rousing words given by noteworthy artist Shawn Queenan and the gallery’s owner, Andrea Robbins Rimberg, who took the stage to express her exuberant, heart felt support while reminding the gathering that the work Shane Izykowski and his Project Street Art compatriots have done has changed the face of Stroudsburg, PA forever.
It was after these thoughtful sentiments did Shane share the much anticipated news of what Project Street Art will do next. The first announcement was the establishment of an Application known as the Art Map App that could be downloaded and accessed through the technology found on Smart Phones and similar electronic devices. The Art Map App will contain information about the sites of the murals that were created as part of Project Street Art Part I and II as well as art related events and opportunities initiated by the entire local creative community. The second announcement related to a calendar that is currently being produced featuring images of the murals that were created during the Street Art Projects. The final announcement related to an endeavor Project Street Art hopes to embark upon in the near future which would be to increase the number of art galleries throughout Monroe County so local artists and art lovers could experience more exposure to the vast creative estuaries of the imagination.
It was with these final enticing glimpse into the future did the ceremonial aspects of the evening come to a conclusion. Those who stayed after the removal of the chairs to share their person to person expressions of thanks and admiration to those involved in the evening’s festivities danced and laughed during the remainder of the night away while music played from the apparatus skillfully maneuvered by DJ AddamBombb (aka Addam Wolff). The remainder of the evening also included a Photo Op session which took placed in front of a setting resembling a wall with the Project Street Art insignias upon it. Attendees were encouraged to pose to have their photograph taken by the event’s official photographer. The mixture of dancing, laughing, and posing eventfully led to the party’s conclusion with those leaving the scene filled with the anticipatory thoughts of the future of Project Street Art and it’s life giving effects on the local creative community. You’ll find more photographs taken during the Project Street Art After Party in the Special Events 2014 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152230295395421.1073741876.636000420&type=1.
Project Street Art was initiated by members of Stroudsburg’s creative community who are led by Shane Izykowski. As mentioned earlier, Project Street Art has created an Art Map App that can be downloaded and accessed by Smart Phones and other devices, will soon produce a calendar reflecting their achievements, and will be soon assisting those who would like to establish art galleries in their abodes. Project Street Art welcomes all art lovers to participate in the planning and execution of their endeavors. To learn more about Project Street Art along with how you can participate and support their future endeavors, please explore their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/projectstreetart?ref=br_tf.
Thursday, October 02, 2014
Giganticus Open Micicus
Due to many circumstances, it’s been several months since I’ve been to The Sherman Theater’s Living Room Stroudsburg, PA to partake of their weekly Open Mic Nite event. But, on Sunday September 28th, I happened upon the opportunity to venture into the venue as the technicians were in the process of preparing for the evening’s event. I stepped outside in order chat with those who were sharing their anticipatory conversations about the potentials the evening held while enjoying the pleasant effects of the sun filled day. It was during this time it was announced the sign in list was available so those who wished to share their talents could place their signatures or nom de plumes upon it.
As the 7pm hour approached, the evening’s co host, Andrew Paul (aka A. P.) took the stage to share his welcoming sentiments before sharing a poem he wrote while he was angry. His words struck a familiar chord in many who heard them. A. P. then introduced the first listed performer of the evening who was a poet known as The Carlton. His well established presence in the area and reputed mastery of the spoken word took the attentive audience upon journeys that awaken their minds to the essential truths the poet conveyed. The Carlton was followed by Newcomers Misty and Mike of A. N. D. whose love filled words filled the room with their sympathetic nuances while those who not only heard their voices but felt them silently embraced their every utterances.
Misty and Mike were followed by co host Andrew Oldfield who shared some thought provoking words with the gathering. The conclusion of his words introduced another Newcomer to the event named Richie who lent his voice to several established songs that delighted the audience and gained their support through the technical difficulties that ensued. Richie was followed by the duo known as Woodrow www.facebook.com/wearewoodrow who consists of Brian Brancamp and Theresa Rattcliff. Their presence was a pleasant surprise to those who knew of the musically exhausting day they spent performing at various locations during the Project Street Art event the previous day.
They began their set with a spell binding rendition of the Police’s “Everything She Does Is Magic” and continued to woo the audience through the soulful interpretations of the songs they continued to share. They were followed by Jessie Roth (aka J. R.) who shared some information about a project The Sherman Theater is embarking on titled, “Community at The Sherman Theater” designed to enhance the betterment of the area and its population. It was with Ms. Roth’s final words did the evening’s feature performer take the stage.
The Saturday Giant (aka Phillip Cogley) took to the stage with his guitar, a keyboard, and a number of foot operated apparatuses from which he immediately began to mesmerize the audience with the echoing sounds of the music he extracted from the electronic denizens at his disposal as well as through his voice. The transfixing qualities of the performance led the audience upon journeys which led them from one isotropic horizon to another. The multi layered musicality of his performance spoke to dreams that has yet to be dreamt and allowed visions to be seen that remain invisible to those who have not heard him perform. Those who were fortunate to be present enough to experience the moments The Saturday Giant created are destined to relive their mind expanding qualities throughout all of their yet to be manifested life filled moments.
The Saturday Giant (aka Phillip Cogley) lives in Columbus, OH and enjoys traveling around the country performing Art Rock to those who come to hear him play. Each performance he presents is unique as he insist on rendering all the components of his songs with the potentials found in the state of spontaneity intact. He feels that “a show should be about what happens that day, in that room, between that audience and that performer. It shouldn't be a carbon copy of the same performance from the night before.”
According to his bio, Mr. Cogley also yearns for “the freedom to make mistakes…. As soon as art becomes perfect, it dies.” The flow that exuded among those who listened to The Saturday Giant during the September 28th Open Mic Nite made it difficult if not impossible to determine if there were any of the mistakes Mr. Cogley embraces. But, if they were any, the imperfections of his performance gave way to the perfect harmonies it created within each being that was present. You can learn more about The Saturday Giant (aka Phillip Cogley) and his music by exploring his Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/thesaturdaygiant.
As the final musical footsteps of The Saturday Giant echoed throughout the venue, a break ensued. It was during this time did The Living Room’s denizens seek to learn more about the featured guest and about themselves through the words he relayed to them. The break ended as Benjamin Ordonez took the stage and shared his poetic words which spoke of what parenting could be along with the joys of love experienced beyond that relationship until someone almost runs off with all of one’s stuff. Benjamin was followed by a Newcomer to the event named Joe Shayka who shared his poetry with the gathering. He was followed by Guitarist Dee Allen whose familiar riffs and voice moved the audience to the home they found in her songs.
Dee was followed by a Newcomer to the event named Jillian whose poetry moved to the meter of life giving all who heard her a deeper sense of the beauty that awaited them if they opened their heart to see it. She was followed on stage by Kevin Tails Moucha who sought the essence of the soul through his a cappella renderings. Kevin was followed by the final performance of the evening who were a duet known as Mimi D www.facebook.com/FissionandMDPsMimiD?fref=ts and A. P. Biznatch (in Derby) who shared a sultry cabaret version of the song, “Fever” whose climatic effect on me was so compulsory that it compelled me to get a flu shot the very next day. It was when the final notes of the performance came to a completion did the gathering being to share their farewells as they collectively anticipated their return to the following week’s event. You’ll be able to find more photographs taken during the Sunday September 28th Open Mic Nite Session in The Living Room 2014 Gallery Part 4 at www.facebook.com/forwardian.dude/media_set?set=a.10152489839930421.1073741902.636000420&type=3.
The next installment of the Living Room Open Mic Nite Series will take place on Sunday October 5th beginning at 7pm with sign ins beginning at 6:30pm. Musicians, poets, writers, and anyone who would like to share something with a receptive audience are welcomed to do so. You can learn more about The Living Room Open Mic Nite Series by Exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/OpenMicAtTheLivingRoom.
In addition to the Open Mic Nites presented at The Living Room, the venue also holds a Gallery which presents their current exhibition titled, “Art I Activism” featuring the work of artists from around the area. Their next exhibit will take place in October and will be titled, “Night of the Living Room” featuring the works of RenDi Young www.facebook.com/TheAltarStudios, Timothy Nebel, Kayla O’Connor www.facebook.com/kaylaoconnorart, and Will Mgrath. The Artists’ Reception will take place Saturday June October 4th beginning at 6pm and will include a Costume Contest. The exhibition will continues to be on display until October 27th. Please contact the gallery’s Director and Curators, Keyaira and Drew Ozkenel, at 570-421-2808 for more information.
The Living Room is located on Main Street in Stroudsburg, PA next to The Sherman Theater who owns the building. The Living Room is a non-profit artspace and community hub featuring live music, exhibitions, and other events in an intimate setting at affordable prices. Please Explore The Living Room Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/The-Living-Room/123978921059378 for more information on The Living Room, all they have to offer, and how to be a part of it all.
As the 7pm hour approached, the evening’s co host, Andrew Paul (aka A. P.) took the stage to share his welcoming sentiments before sharing a poem he wrote while he was angry. His words struck a familiar chord in many who heard them. A. P. then introduced the first listed performer of the evening who was a poet known as The Carlton. His well established presence in the area and reputed mastery of the spoken word took the attentive audience upon journeys that awaken their minds to the essential truths the poet conveyed. The Carlton was followed by Newcomers Misty and Mike of A. N. D. whose love filled words filled the room with their sympathetic nuances while those who not only heard their voices but felt them silently embraced their every utterances.
Misty and Mike were followed by co host Andrew Oldfield who shared some thought provoking words with the gathering. The conclusion of his words introduced another Newcomer to the event named Richie who lent his voice to several established songs that delighted the audience and gained their support through the technical difficulties that ensued. Richie was followed by the duo known as Woodrow www.facebook.com/wearewoodrow who consists of Brian Brancamp and Theresa Rattcliff. Their presence was a pleasant surprise to those who knew of the musically exhausting day they spent performing at various locations during the Project Street Art event the previous day.
They began their set with a spell binding rendition of the Police’s “Everything She Does Is Magic” and continued to woo the audience through the soulful interpretations of the songs they continued to share. They were followed by Jessie Roth (aka J. R.) who shared some information about a project The Sherman Theater is embarking on titled, “Community at The Sherman Theater” designed to enhance the betterment of the area and its population. It was with Ms. Roth’s final words did the evening’s feature performer take the stage.
The Saturday Giant (aka Phillip Cogley) took to the stage with his guitar, a keyboard, and a number of foot operated apparatuses from which he immediately began to mesmerize the audience with the echoing sounds of the music he extracted from the electronic denizens at his disposal as well as through his voice. The transfixing qualities of the performance led the audience upon journeys which led them from one isotropic horizon to another. The multi layered musicality of his performance spoke to dreams that has yet to be dreamt and allowed visions to be seen that remain invisible to those who have not heard him perform. Those who were fortunate to be present enough to experience the moments The Saturday Giant created are destined to relive their mind expanding qualities throughout all of their yet to be manifested life filled moments.
The Saturday Giant (aka Phillip Cogley) lives in Columbus, OH and enjoys traveling around the country performing Art Rock to those who come to hear him play. Each performance he presents is unique as he insist on rendering all the components of his songs with the potentials found in the state of spontaneity intact. He feels that “a show should be about what happens that day, in that room, between that audience and that performer. It shouldn't be a carbon copy of the same performance from the night before.”
According to his bio, Mr. Cogley also yearns for “the freedom to make mistakes…. As soon as art becomes perfect, it dies.” The flow that exuded among those who listened to The Saturday Giant during the September 28th Open Mic Nite made it difficult if not impossible to determine if there were any of the mistakes Mr. Cogley embraces. But, if they were any, the imperfections of his performance gave way to the perfect harmonies it created within each being that was present. You can learn more about The Saturday Giant (aka Phillip Cogley) and his music by exploring his Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/thesaturdaygiant.
As the final musical footsteps of The Saturday Giant echoed throughout the venue, a break ensued. It was during this time did The Living Room’s denizens seek to learn more about the featured guest and about themselves through the words he relayed to them. The break ended as Benjamin Ordonez took the stage and shared his poetic words which spoke of what parenting could be along with the joys of love experienced beyond that relationship until someone almost runs off with all of one’s stuff. Benjamin was followed by a Newcomer to the event named Joe Shayka who shared his poetry with the gathering. He was followed by Guitarist Dee Allen whose familiar riffs and voice moved the audience to the home they found in her songs.
Dee was followed by a Newcomer to the event named Jillian whose poetry moved to the meter of life giving all who heard her a deeper sense of the beauty that awaited them if they opened their heart to see it. She was followed on stage by Kevin Tails Moucha who sought the essence of the soul through his a cappella renderings. Kevin was followed by the final performance of the evening who were a duet known as Mimi D www.facebook.com/FissionandMDPsMimiD?fref=ts and A. P. Biznatch (in Derby) who shared a sultry cabaret version of the song, “Fever” whose climatic effect on me was so compulsory that it compelled me to get a flu shot the very next day. It was when the final notes of the performance came to a completion did the gathering being to share their farewells as they collectively anticipated their return to the following week’s event. You’ll be able to find more photographs taken during the Sunday September 28th Open Mic Nite Session in The Living Room 2014 Gallery Part 4 at www.facebook.com/forwardian.dude/media_set?set=a.10152489839930421.1073741902.636000420&type=3.
The next installment of the Living Room Open Mic Nite Series will take place on Sunday October 5th beginning at 7pm with sign ins beginning at 6:30pm. Musicians, poets, writers, and anyone who would like to share something with a receptive audience are welcomed to do so. You can learn more about The Living Room Open Mic Nite Series by Exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/OpenMicAtTheLivingRoom.
In addition to the Open Mic Nites presented at The Living Room, the venue also holds a Gallery which presents their current exhibition titled, “Art I Activism” featuring the work of artists from around the area. Their next exhibit will take place in October and will be titled, “Night of the Living Room” featuring the works of RenDi Young www.facebook.com/TheAltarStudios, Timothy Nebel, Kayla O’Connor www.facebook.com/kaylaoconnorart, and Will Mgrath. The Artists’ Reception will take place Saturday June October 4th beginning at 6pm and will include a Costume Contest. The exhibition will continues to be on display until October 27th. Please contact the gallery’s Director and Curators, Keyaira and Drew Ozkenel, at 570-421-2808 for more information.
The Living Room is located on Main Street in Stroudsburg, PA next to The Sherman Theater who owns the building. The Living Room is a non-profit artspace and community hub featuring live music, exhibitions, and other events in an intimate setting at affordable prices. Please Explore The Living Room Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/The-Living-Room/123978921059378 for more information on The Living Room, all they have to offer, and how to be a part of it all.
The Muracle of Art
In a continuing endeavor to beautify the local area while paying homage to members of it’s creative community, Project Street Art II held a live painting event at 10 locations in the Stroudsburg, PA and East Stroudsburg, PA area on Saturday September 27th. The unseasonably warm autumn day encouraged those who love the arts to journey among the various locations while marveling at the formation of the images created to adorn the selected sites. The act of experiencing the process of creating murals on the exterior walls of the 10 designated locations throughout the area proved to be a deeply profound one as the intricacies inherent in the varying approaches each artist employed as they gave their visions form were revealed throughout the day. This experience was further enhanced by the musicians who performed at each site which added a joy to the thoughtful reflections on the work many who attended the event shared in their verbal and non verbal conversations.
The sites which were located in Stroudsburg, PA included Studio 8 with a mural created by Jill Swersie, the inside facing wall at 609 Main Street with a mural created by Rin Lack, the wall behind Marita’s Cantina www.facebook.com/pages/Maritas-Cantina/149708431742568 with a mural created by Addam Rae Wolff www.facebook.com/addambombb?fref=ts, the Central Building at 727 Main Street with a mural created by Sean Turrell, the bridge by the Wawa Mini Market with a mural created by Nova Chan, Lockwood Village with a mural created by Illma Gore www.facebook.com/tomfoolery.art, and Friedman Electric with a mural created by Chroma Dolls www.facebook.com/chromadolls. The sites which were located in East Stroudsburg, PA included the Dansbury Terrace with a mural created by Anna Kaszupinski, the Unfinished Mural Wall on Crystal Street with a mural created by Joy Taney, and the Dansbury Park Bathroom House with a mural created by Adia Gibbs. The artists were assisted by numerous students, artists, and community members. The musicians who performed in rotation at each site throughout the day included The Juggernaut String Band www.facebook.com/JuggernautStringBand, Woodrow www.facebook.com/wearewoodrow, Eric Funn www.facebook.com/EricFunn, Zeke Cats, Theomar Chakey Francois www.facebook.com/SunnyShading, Jesse Morales, Renard Cohen, Randy Bigness, and Julie Rubino.
Project Street Art II is the second of endeavors designed to enhance the aesthetic qualities of the region. The first was known as Project Street Art I which took place on Saturday May 24th, 2014. This event consisted of painting murals on a large paneled wall running along the 600 block of the Main Street section in Stroudsburg, PA which is the site of a devastating fire that occurred in 2006. Project Street Art was initiated by members of Stroudsburg’s creative community who are led by Shane Izykowski. Their next endeavor is yet to be announced but an after party of which the public is invited to is scheduled to take place on Friday October 3rd beginning at 6pm at The SOHO in the Burg in Stroudsburg, PA www.facebook.com/sohointheburg. The party will serve as an opportunity to meet the artists who participated in the endeavor as well as their supporters. To learn more about Project Street Art along with how you can participate and support their future endeavors, please explore their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/projectstreetart?ref=br_tf.
Although the Project Street Art mural painting event dominated the day, another event occurred that was indicative of the creative energies that has blessed the town in recent years. This event was the ALIVE Concert and Open Jam which was held on the front lawn of Moe'st Everything Muse which is located on Ann Street in Stroudsburg, PA near the Ribbon Factory Outlet. I visited the event while roaming around the town partaking of the day’s primary endeavor and was fortunate enough to hear a band known as Jettison who sang a number of established songs leading many who listened to sing joyfully along. Other bands scheduled to play were Aragon, H 2 O, Sheep in Wolf’s Clothes, Blind Men Driving, and more. However, I could not stay to listen as the echoes of Project Street Art summoned me away.
Moe'st Everything Muse holds an Open Jam Nite the last Saturday of every month with the next event scheduled to place on Saturday October 26th beginning at 8pm. All are welcomed to come and share their musical talents or to partake of the event as a member of the audience. In addition to the Open Jam Nites, Moe'st Everything Muse offers a variety of musical instruments to be purchased or traded. They also buy musical instruments from those who wish to sell them along with lessons, a rehearsal space, and repairs to broken instruments. Moe'st Everything Muse recently opened their new creative musings and gift shop which includes an eclectic selection of T - Shirts, Jewelry, Books, and Art created by local artists. You’ll be able to learn more about Moe'st Everything Muse and every thing they offer by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/moesteverything?ref=ts&fref=ts.
The day proved to be a wonderful one filled with art, music, and good conversation. Several of the murals were left unfinished at the end of the day due to the extensiveness of the work involved in creating them. However, they are scheduled to be completed by the artist and their assistants within a few weeks. In the meantime, all of the murals are available to be viewed by the public as they walk around the towns of Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg, PA. You’ll find more photographs taken during the Project Street Art mural painting event and the Moe'st Everything Muse ALIVE Concert and Open Jam in the Special Events 2014 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152230295395421.1073741876.636000420&type=1.
The sites which were located in Stroudsburg, PA included Studio 8 with a mural created by Jill Swersie, the inside facing wall at 609 Main Street with a mural created by Rin Lack, the wall behind Marita’s Cantina www.facebook.com/pages/Maritas-Cantina/149708431742568 with a mural created by Addam Rae Wolff www.facebook.com/addambombb?fref=ts, the Central Building at 727 Main Street with a mural created by Sean Turrell, the bridge by the Wawa Mini Market with a mural created by Nova Chan, Lockwood Village with a mural created by Illma Gore www.facebook.com/tomfoolery.art, and Friedman Electric with a mural created by Chroma Dolls www.facebook.com/chromadolls. The sites which were located in East Stroudsburg, PA included the Dansbury Terrace with a mural created by Anna Kaszupinski, the Unfinished Mural Wall on Crystal Street with a mural created by Joy Taney, and the Dansbury Park Bathroom House with a mural created by Adia Gibbs. The artists were assisted by numerous students, artists, and community members. The musicians who performed in rotation at each site throughout the day included The Juggernaut String Band www.facebook.com/JuggernautStringBand, Woodrow www.facebook.com/wearewoodrow, Eric Funn www.facebook.com/EricFunn, Zeke Cats, Theomar Chakey Francois www.facebook.com/SunnyShading, Jesse Morales, Renard Cohen, Randy Bigness, and Julie Rubino.
Project Street Art II is the second of endeavors designed to enhance the aesthetic qualities of the region. The first was known as Project Street Art I which took place on Saturday May 24th, 2014. This event consisted of painting murals on a large paneled wall running along the 600 block of the Main Street section in Stroudsburg, PA which is the site of a devastating fire that occurred in 2006. Project Street Art was initiated by members of Stroudsburg’s creative community who are led by Shane Izykowski. Their next endeavor is yet to be announced but an after party of which the public is invited to is scheduled to take place on Friday October 3rd beginning at 6pm at The SOHO in the Burg in Stroudsburg, PA www.facebook.com/sohointheburg. The party will serve as an opportunity to meet the artists who participated in the endeavor as well as their supporters. To learn more about Project Street Art along with how you can participate and support their future endeavors, please explore their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/projectstreetart?ref=br_tf.
Although the Project Street Art mural painting event dominated the day, another event occurred that was indicative of the creative energies that has blessed the town in recent years. This event was the ALIVE Concert and Open Jam which was held on the front lawn of Moe'st Everything Muse which is located on Ann Street in Stroudsburg, PA near the Ribbon Factory Outlet. I visited the event while roaming around the town partaking of the day’s primary endeavor and was fortunate enough to hear a band known as Jettison who sang a number of established songs leading many who listened to sing joyfully along. Other bands scheduled to play were Aragon, H 2 O, Sheep in Wolf’s Clothes, Blind Men Driving, and more. However, I could not stay to listen as the echoes of Project Street Art summoned me away.
Moe'st Everything Muse holds an Open Jam Nite the last Saturday of every month with the next event scheduled to place on Saturday October 26th beginning at 8pm. All are welcomed to come and share their musical talents or to partake of the event as a member of the audience. In addition to the Open Jam Nites, Moe'st Everything Muse offers a variety of musical instruments to be purchased or traded. They also buy musical instruments from those who wish to sell them along with lessons, a rehearsal space, and repairs to broken instruments. Moe'st Everything Muse recently opened their new creative musings and gift shop which includes an eclectic selection of T - Shirts, Jewelry, Books, and Art created by local artists. You’ll be able to learn more about Moe'st Everything Muse and every thing they offer by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/moesteverything?ref=ts&fref=ts.
The day proved to be a wonderful one filled with art, music, and good conversation. Several of the murals were left unfinished at the end of the day due to the extensiveness of the work involved in creating them. However, they are scheduled to be completed by the artist and their assistants within a few weeks. In the meantime, all of the murals are available to be viewed by the public as they walk around the towns of Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg, PA. You’ll find more photographs taken during the Project Street Art mural painting event and the Moe'st Everything Muse ALIVE Concert and Open Jam in the Special Events 2014 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152230295395421.1073741876.636000420&type=1.
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