Origins Gets The Freeq Outta Space

Photography by Paparazzi Paul

Cosmic dreams filled the mind as The Origins Gallery in Stroudsburg, PA held an Artists' Reception on Saturday May 7^th for their Outta Space Exhibition. Along with local artists who shared their unique interpretations of the exhibit's theme, the gallery showcased the work of Cat Burbage whose comic strip character Freeq www.pictaram.com/user/freeqcomics/2102854200 and his friends lined the walls. Their images and antics lured the many who attended the event toward expressions of smiles which often led to sounds of laughter. Ms. Burbage delighted the gathering even further when she performed throughout the evening as a member of The Juggernaut String Band.

After a time was spent exploring the work on display and mingling with established and new found friends in attendance, the gallery's Director, Jody Singer, came upon the stage to share his welcoming remarks and news of what will be presented at the venue in the future. He then proceeded to welcome Professor Michael Kessler who presented a slide show on the geology of the universe. As Prof. Kessler completed his informative and entertaining presentation, Mr. Singer retook the stage in order to introduce The Juggernaut String Band much to the audience's delight.

The Juggernaut String Band consists of Pete Taney on Vocals, Banjo, Fiddle, and Harmonica, Tom Hughes on Bass, Guitar, and Vocals, Cat Burbage on Drums, Bass; Parade Snare, and Vocals, and Joy Taney on Trombone, Bass, and Vocals. Their familiar blend of swamp rock, bluegrass, Cajun, Irish, and Mardi Gras music filled the dancing souls of all who embraced the melodies in their hearts. You can learn more about The Juggernaut String Band by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/JuggernautStringBand/?fref=ts.

It was during a break in the music did the famous Origin's Art Auction take place. A number of beautiful and thoughtful items filled a table and were placed beside corresponding cups in which those who bought a raffle ticket was able to participate in an opportunity to win the item by putting their ticket in the container. Each ticket holder eagerly eyed the digits of their tickets as Mr. Singer called out each number while Marty Carr displayed the coveted piece whose desirability was enhanced by her beauty and grace. It was after the final item was collected did The Juggernaut String Band return to the stage to resume delighting the crowd with their musical abilities to wow them as they bade adieu to each other and the art.

The Outta Space Exhibition will be on display at The Origins Gallery in Stroudsburg, PA until May 18^th. Their next show will be their “A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words” Exhibition featuring readings given by Vincent Asaro from his novel titled, “Carrot Field.” The Artists' Reception is scheduled for Saturday May 21^st beginning at 6pm. The drop off dates are May 18^th and 19^th. All artists are invited to participate.

In addition to their exhibitions, The Origins Gallery holds a number of special events like classes and workshops, their Last Minute Monday Series, their Underground Series, festivals, and their Below the Surface: An Arts Experience Series (such as the one scheduled for Wednesday May 18^th beginning at 6:30pm featuring Lobo Marino). They are quite enjoyable and I hope to see you at many of them. In the meantime, you can view photographs taken during the Artists' Reception of the exhibit at The “Origins Gets The Freeq Outta Space” Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154873771998761.1073741968.91146283760&type=3.

The Origins Gallery is located on the lower level of The Gamers Edge Comics and Games Store www.facebook.com/TheGamersEdgeStroudsburg?fref=ts which can be found at 580 Main St. in Stroudsburg, PA. The Origins Gallery is a contemporary arts gallery within the Pocono Art District having one of the highest and fastest sales records in the Stroudsburg area, provides a space to those who teach the arts to those who would like to learn from them, and continues to do everything with the local community in mind. You can learn more about The Origins Gallery and view images and videos of the event taken by members of their staff and others by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/OriginsGalleryStroudsburg or their Website at www.originsgallery.org.