The SOHO Springs Eternal

On a breezy spring day whose comfortable temperatures came upon the area as if they were made to order for the exhibit, The SOHO in the BURG Gallery in Stroudsburg, PA held an Artists’ Reception on Saturday April 4^th for their exhibition featuring the work of Emilio Arostegui and Joe Mooney. The Reception also showcased the work of numerous artists from the area in a group show titled, “Springing in The Rain.” The entirety of the exhibit provided an immediate uplifting sensation for those who attended the event as they entered and explored the venue. This good feeling was further enhanced by the aromatic fragrances flowing from the area where Chef G (aka Guarino Cortese) chefIIgo@yahoo.com was preparing some wonderful culinary delights which he created (as he does for all of the exhibits held at The SOHO in The Burg Gallery) specially for the event. Music for the evening was provided by Addambombb www.facebook.com/djaddambombb?fref=ts whose turntable filled the room with memorable sounds of jazz as rendered by some of the greats which includes Frank Sinatra and Mel Torme.

The photographic work of Emilio Arostegui never fails to capture the imagination as its dream like imagery pulls one into its darkened corridors through the beauty and exquisite qualities each composition possess. The shadowy worlds created by Mr. Arostegui creates a desire within the viewer to explore each environment more deeply as there is a sense that there is a mystery to be solved which will bring about a profound light that will shine upon the deeper meanings embodied in the work upon its discovery. This exploration leads many to the darkened realms within themselves which, before experiencing the invitingly intriguing nature of Mr. Arostegui's work, were too foreboding to enter. However, it is soon realized that the light they seek to reveal all that is hidden in the shadows of Mr. Arostegui's work, lies deep within themselves waiting to be illumined by the remembered awareness of its existence. It is with this epiphany that a sense of gratitude is given to the photographer for inspiring one to embark upon the journey to this realization.

Although the paintings of Joe Mooney seem diametrically opposed to the shadowy dreamlike images created by Emilio Arostegui, peering deeply into the carefully detailed images which comprise primarily of Celebrity portraits, along with some equally fine renderings of animals and other subjects, and going beyond the surface pigments of each piece soon creates a dream. In the case of the Celebrity portraits, the dream is one that enlivens the memories inspired by each personage depicted within the frame. The variety of these personages are as expansive as the memories they inspire and included the likenesses of Dean Martin, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Kim Novak, and more. As one reflects upon each depiction, one begins to remember the magical influence these individuals had upon the lives that experienced them through their soul touching talents. They are the stuff that dreams are made of and the dreams they make inspires us to live their magic in every moment we live.

The work presented in the gallery's group exhibit titled, “Springin' In The Rain” consisted of images and sculpture created by a number of local artists who each has deservedly earned a great deal of recognition and praise for their talented endeavors. It was very easy to see the reason why they received such impressive accolades as exploring the flow of the work as it was lovingly presented created a sense of awe which inspired many to share their thoughts on the intricacies and the beauty of each piece with other art lovers. This intercourse elevated the meaningfulness of the exhibit and allowed the gallery to achieve what few similar venues are unable to which is to create a singular presentation so all of the work can be experienced on an egalitarian level thus honoring all the artists and their talents who are being shown throughout the gallery in the unifying spirit of oneness.

Emilio Arostegui's began his creative journey in the early 1990's as he taught himself the art of Photography and other Graphic Arts. Mr. Arostegui spent years perfecting his unique style in emotional portraiture and design which led to conceptual visions which make up the majority of his works. His work can be seen through out the Pocono area in local galleries and shops. You can learn more about Emilio Arostegui and view his work at www.judasfx.com.

Joe Mooney is a self-taught artist who began painting in acrylic since the age of 16. Although Mr. Mooney's work focuses primarily on portraits, his interest in subjects spans a wide gamut that is evident throughout the current exhibit being held at The SOHO in the Burg Gallery. Mr. Mooney has been honored with the “Grand Champion” Award at The West End Fair in Gilbert, PA along with several first place ribbons and trophies he received over time in various shows. He has also won the 2^nd place award in the acrylics category at Pocono Arts Council members show held in the June of 2012. You can learn more about Joe Mooney and his work at www.facebook.com/joemooneyart/timeline.

Although it seemed there were fewer attendees as usual for the reception, this perception proved to be a deceiving one as there was a flow of art lovers who arrived and left to partake of other art related events going on throughout the evening. Regardless of the population or its dynamics, the reception was a thoroughly enjoyable one with uncanny work to be seen and an atmosphere that enhanced all who partook of it. I recommend visiting the gallery to view the work as the experience discovering the memories and dreams dwelling within each piece will enlighten one's day/ You'll find photographs taken during the Artists' Reception held at The SOHO in the BURG Gallery in Stroudsburg, PA on Saturday April 4^th in The SOHO in the Burg Springin' In The Rain Artists' Reception 04-04-14 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153738478073761.1073741838.91146283760&type=1. You'll also find photographs taken in various locations throughout the area in The Pocono Art District 2015 Archive at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153087858925421.1073741965.636000420&type=1 and those in a wider variety of venues in The Creative Arts 2015 Archive at www.facebook.com/pages/The-Forwardian-Creative-Arts-Society/250942068310585.

The SOHO in the BURG Gallery is located on the corner of 6^th and Main Street in Stroudsburg, PA which was the location of the J. J. Newberry’s store. The gallery opened its doors to the public in April of 2012 and is owned by Andrea Robbins Rimberg who has become well known for her exuberant energies and creativity as many of her pieces are on display in prestigious galleries throughout the United States. The exhibition featuring the work of Joe Mooney and Emilio Arostegui along with local artists in a group exhibit titled, “Springing in The Rain” will on display until the end of May. The next exhibit will take begin in June and details regarding it will be announced in the future.

In addition to the art exhibitions held at The SOHO in the BURG Gallery, The gallery will host The Pocono Arts Council www.facebook.com/poconoartscouncil?fref=ts presentation of their Poetry Slam on Thursday April 9^th beginning at 7pm and The Forwardian Film Festival on May 2^nd and 3^rd featuring the cinematic endeavors of local filmmakers and actors along with those created internationally. The Deadline for submissions of films to be considered for inclusion in the event is April 10^th. Please explore The Forwardian Arts Society Website at www.Forwardianarts.org for more information. In the meantime. you can learn more about The SOHO in the BURG Gallery, their future exhibits, and all the gallery has to offer the creative community by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/sohointheburg.

Photography by Paparazzi Paul.

Something Wicked This Way Dances

On Wednesday April 1^st, The Sherman Theater's Living Room in Stroudsburg, PA hosted the first of a series of monthly events to be known as “The Wicked Party.” A Hypnotic array of dance tune filled the room as it's moodfully dimmed lighting enhanced the sedatable desire to move one's body to the beats spun on a turntable expertly manipulated by the event's conceiver who is known to the wonderlandian denizens of the event as “Addambombb” who donned a Mad Hatter persona to emphasize the flavor of Lewis Carroll's work as it was sewn into the fabric of each song. The music and its effects were enhanced by the presence of Brandy Herzog and a woman known as Kimberly Ask Questions who shared a table filled with dream enhancing items from Puff's Magic Shoppe.

Although the event was sparsely attended, the enjoyably relaxed sensations it inspired increased the mesmerizing realities that dwelled within the subconscious wonderlands of each soul who were fortunate enough to be present. The density of these mental manifestations, which were invisible to the ordinary eye, populated the room filling it near capacity. This population explosion of realities would have become an overwhelming phenomenon if not for the flow of the music and the auric properties it embodied that guided them upon their mind bending journeys. It was fun and I look forward to going again.

As mentioned earlier, The Wicked Party is a monthly event held at The Sherman Theater's Living Room in Stroudsburg, PA the first Wednesday of every month. It is designed to be an amalgamation of alternative music, art, and culture serving “as a place where intelligent monkey-mushrooms can shake some booty and converse with other intelligent monkey-mushrooms about the benefits of having opposable thumbs, and the higher minded purposes to which they can be put.” The next Wicked Party is scheduled to take place on Wednesday May 6^th beginning at 9pm. You'll find the photographs I took during this month's event at The April Wicked Party Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153731236483761.1073741837.91146283760&type=1 along with other events that take place at the venue in The Sherman Theater's Living Room 2015 Archive at www.facebook.com/forwardian.dude/media_set?set=a.10153108259710421.1073741966.636000420&type=3. You can also view photos taken of given in various locations at our Performing Arts 2015 Archive at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.789279141163124.1073741841.207838092640568&type=1.

According to his biography, Addambombb has been a pro dj since 1995 and has literally thousands of events worth of experience, tens of thousands of hours spinning to packed floors both domestically and internationally. He has produced and promoted special events all over the northeast. You can learn more about Addambombb and all he offers by exploring his Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/djaddambombb?fref=ts.

In Addition to special events like The Wicked Party, The Sherman Theater's Living Room in Stroudsburg, PA holds a weekly Open Mic Nite Series www.facebook.com/OpenMicAtTheLivingRoom every Sunday Evening 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. The venue also houses an Art Gallery. Their next exhibit is titled, “The Call of Nature” and features the work of Marty Carr and Chris Francz along with other local artists. The Artists' Reception will be held on Saturday April 4^th beginning at 6pm with music to be performed by Woodrow. will be on display until April 26^th. Please contact the gallery’s Directors and Curators, Keyaira and Drew Ozkenel, at 570-421-2808 for more information.

The Sherman Theater's 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 for more information on The Living Room, all they have to offer, and how to be a part of it all.

Puff's Magic Shoppe is located at 500 Main St. in Stroudsburg, PA. It is a friendly retail/hippie/head shop. Items for sale include pipes, hookahs, clothing, tapestries, groovey gifts, novelty items. You can learn more about Puff's Magic Shoppe by exploring their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/puffsmagicshoppe?fref=ts.

Photography by Paparazzi Paul.

April Fool's Comedy at Origins

On a day befitting comedic episodes, The Origins Gallery in Stroudsburg, PA held an April Fool's Comedy Show on Wednesday April 1^st that featured comics Matt Serniak, Dan Hoppel, and Zack Hammond. I arrived early to discover the venue filled with chairs and couches that were lined up before the comfortably small stage upon which a microphone and speakers were being set up. It was soon after my arrival did the comedians show up to prepared themselves for the night they would enhance with their humor. It was some time afterwards did an audience begin to trickle in until almost all of the seats made available to them were filled.

The show began with some welcoming words given by the gallery's Assistant Director, Ashley C. Fontones, which included news of future events and endeavors of the venue. She then gave the stage over to Carlton Farnbaugh (aka The Carlton) who shared his welcoming remarks before introducing the comedians who would perform in turn. An anticipation of sharing an evening of laughter began to build among the audience members as the first comedian made his way to the stage.

Matt Serniak shared a variety of topics which amused the audience through his unique perceptions of the realities he discovered. These ranged from developing shark tanks comprising of armored vehicles (Tanks) that would be able to shoot actual sharks from their barrows to half way houses for those who want to get back on drugs after finding a life of sobriety disappointing. The former proposal of the new form of weaponry was presented as a remedy to address the criminal organization known as ISIS as the sight of sharks being shot at them would render them paralyzed with shock and surprise. The later proposal reflected the feeling many recovering addicts have that living life without drugs isn't what it's cracked (no pun intended. Well, maybe a little bit.) up to be. After Mr. Serniak had completed his set, a brief show of appreciation was given by The Carlton as he introduced the next comedian.

Dan Hoppel filled the stage with his presence as he inspired laughter from the audience through his humorous insights primarily focusing on relationships and the self serving nature of sex. His mastery of the comedic art form was demonstrated as a member of the audience shared a comment and Mr. Hoppel responded in a spontaneous way that made the moment all the more funnier. This left the perpetrator in a state of chagrined embarrassment, but it was funny.

During the completion of his set, The Carlton came upon stage to offer Mr. Hoppel a gift of a cupcake that was contained in a baker's box. After learning it would enhance his ability to become a diabetic, Mr. Hoppel slapped the box to the floor inspiring some laughter from the audience. The Carlton then picked up the box, opened it while speculating how deformed the contents would be after its impact, and began (in Warholian Cinematic Style) eating the cupcake. An anticipatory silence filled the room as each morsel of the food was consumed and digested. It was then time for the final of the three comedians to take the stage.

After a brief introduction, Zack Hammond began his tour de force comedy which flowed from one topic to another with every observational and perceptive pause given throughout his routine inspired both thoughtful and uproarious laughter. The topics ranged from Magic to Finances and from Employment to Marriage. There were hardly a subject explored by Mr. Hammond that the majority of the audience couldn't relate to and his insight into the essence of these human matters gave the crowd a more defined insight to the nature of their own experiences.

It was after Mr. Hammond performance did Ms. Fontones take the stage to share the numbers upon the tickets of those corresponding with the door prizes that were offered that evening. Digits and excitement filled the room as each winner of the prized eagerly claimed their award. After all the prizes were claimed, The Carlton and Ms. Fontones expressed their appreciation to the comedians and those who attended the event along with wishing everyone a fond adieu.

A great deal of conversation followed these sentiments that took place between the audience members who also lingered in the gallery to view the work and to chat with the comedians who performed. It was a great evening filled with fun and camaraderie and it is hoped that there will be more like it in the future. You can view photographs taken during the event at The April Fool's Comedy Show at Origins 04-01-15 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153730023718761.1073741836.91146283760&type=1. You can also view photos taken of the event's comedians and other performances given in various locations at our Performing Arts 2015 Archive at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.789279141163124.1073741841.207838092640568&type=1. In addition to this, you'll be able to view photographs taken at other venues throughout the area in Our Pocono Arts District 2015 Archive at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153087858925421.1073741965.636000420&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 newly formed 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 by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/OriginsGalleryStroudsburg or their website at www.originsgallery.tk.

The Origins Gallery is currently presenting their “A Voice For The Earth” exhibit which will be on display until April 26^th. Their next event will be the “Cover to Cover” competition/exhibition presented by The Forwardian Arts Society to determine what images will appear on the front and back cover of the upcoming 10^th issue of their literary and arts magazine titled, “Forwardian.” The Artists' Reception is scheduled for Friday May 1^st beginning at 6pm with the work continuing to be on display until May 10^th. More information about The Forwardian Arts Society, its literary and arts magazine, and how to participate in the competition can be gained by exploring their website at www.forwardianarts.org. I hope to see you then.

Photography by Paparazzi Paul

The Origins of Earthly Voices

In conjunction with the Pocono Arts Council's upcoming juried art exhibition titled, “The Earth Speaks,” the recently established Origins Gallery held an Artists' Reception on Saturday March 28^th for their exhibition titled, “A Voice For The Earth.” The gallery is located on the Main Street of Stroudsburg, PA and the work featured was those created by local artists. The reception also featured a simple yet delightful cuisine of extraordinary delights that were prepared and served by Fran O'Hagan, soul touching music performed by Michael G. Williams and Baba Keino Anderson Gavinpiper along with Derrick (Decatur ST.) Jenkins, and an excitement filled Art Raffle which offered those who attended the event an opportunity win a piece donated by a local artist. In addition to all this, the photographic work of David Plank was on display in a space adjacent to the main gallery for all who were fortunate enough to venture to it and experience his incredible non digital images.

I arrived to the event early and was treated to the excitement the gallery's director, Jody Singer, and Assistant Director, Ashley C. Fontones, shared as they lovingly prepared the gallery in anticipation of a wonderful evening filled with meaningful art and conversation. Many friends of the gallery came to help in the preparations. These individuals included Jeffrey Solt of Puff's Magic Shoppe www.facebook.com/puffsmagicshoppe?fref=ts, Bradley Bartholomew, Kevin Cormier of Flowing Energy Tai-Chi www.facebook.com/pages/Flowing-Energy-Tai-Chi/216868115041521, and Carlton Farnbaugh. I also helped by placing some fliers on the gallery's bulletin board and stapling exhibition's two price lists together. The later task I performed was completed with erroneous results. This took talent. I then had re stable them all over again to correct the mistake.

As the hour to begin the reception approached, the musicians and several of the artists who were part of the exhibit began trickling in. They were soon followed by more artists and art lovers until the gallery was eventually filled to near capacity. Conversations flowed throughout the room as the joy of experiencing the wide variety of interpretations of the ecological theme of the exhibit flavored the enchanting tone of the words and thoughts that were shared. It was during this time did Jody Singer and Ashley C. Fontones stand before the gathering to share their welcoming remarks which were filled with an appreciative love for those who were present as they then shared news of upcoming events and offerings of the gallery. It was after these sharings concluded did the conversations members of the gathering were engaged in resumed in a more energized manner due to the revelations given by Mr. Singer and Ms. Fontones.

This energized flow in the conversation was enhanced as Michael G. Williams on Flute and Saxophone, Baba Keino Anderson Gavinpiper on Percussion and Vocals, and Derrick (Decatur ST.) Jenkins on Bass took the modestly sized stage and began to gently play a number of jazz pieces that simultaneously brought relaxation and excitement to the souls and bodily forms of those whose minds were touched by the deftly performed syncopated stylings of the trio. The musicians were joined by members of the gathering throughout the evening to share in the delights of music making. They included Tom and Carolyn Burbage along with Vid Ryan of The Juggernaut String Band www.facebook.com/JuggernautStringBand?fref=ts whose manipulation of the tambourines and maracas they were given added to the song they accompanied a delightful texture. The musicians were also joined by Ms. Joy Taney (also of The Juggernaut String Band) who shared a duet with Baba Keino Anderson Gavinpiper whose soulful depths brought the house down.

The tasty morsels created by Fran O'Hagan along with the wine that was served helped to nourish the gathering as they sought to devour the incredible work that hung upon the walls before them. Each of the pieces on display were as unique as the artist who rendered it. Yet, an overall quality permeated the exhibit as its environmental theme was met and transcended by much of the work that was presented. Viewing the work proved to be a delightfully mesmerizing experience as it inspired all who were touched by the images and colors to contemplate the natural world and their part in it more deeply.

It was while those who attended the reception were being enhanced by the work upon the gallery's wall did the much awaited and anticipated Art Raffle begin. Each purchaser of the raffle tickets that were available for acquisition throughout the evening held them tightly between their fingers as they eagerly waited for the digits to be called in hopes the numbers that would be announced matched those they possessed. The tension grew to a fevered pitch as the name of each number were verbalized until the climatic release of the final digit was called. This was followed an arousing scream of satisfaction as the winning ticket holder leaped across the room to claim his or her prize. This continued until the final number of the final ticket was read leading to numerous congratulatory sentiments being shared without an inappropriate amount of envy.

It was some time after this did the evening conclude and those who were enlivened by all they encountered bade their established and newly made friends fare well. It was an awarding and wonderful evening spent in conversation, music, and the arts. The exhibition continues to be on display until April 26^th and I encourage anyone who has not seen it, to come to the gallery to do so. Those who have seen it during the reception need no encouragement from me to come back and rediscover the wonders of each piece. I plan to do so as I also feel there will be something new to experience during a second viewing of a number of the pieces.

The “A Voice For The Earth” exhibit is being presented at The Origins Gallery in conjunction with The Pocono Arts Council's www.facebook.com/poconoartscouncil?fref=ts upcoming juried art exhibition titled, “The Earth Speaks” which is a part of a National exhibit for the environment and will feature the work of local artists. The exhibit will hold an Artists' Reception on at Saturday April 18^th in The ArtSpace Gallery of The Pocono Arts Cultural Center in Stroudsburg, PA. You can view photographs taken during the Origins Gallery's event at The “A Voice For The Earth” Artists' Reception at Origins 03-28-15 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153719517063761.1073741834.91146283760&type=1. You can also view images of the art work and other exhibitions taking place throughout the area in Our Creative Arts 2015 Archive at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.819876711417115.1073741834.250942068310585&type=1 as well as photos taken of the event's musicians and other performances given in various locations at our Performing Arts 2015 Archive at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.789279141163124.1073741841.207838092640568&type=1. In addition to this, you'll be able to view photographs taken at other venues throughout the area in Our Pocono Arts District 2015 Archive at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153087858925421.1073741965.636000420&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 newly formed 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 by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/OriginsGalleryStroudsburg or their website at www.originsgallery.tk.

The next event to be presented at The Origins Gallery will be an evening with Comedians Dan Hoppel, Zack Hammond, and Matt Serniak on Wednesday April 1^st beginning at 7pm to commemorate April Fools' Day. Their next exhibition will be the “Cover to Cover” competition/exhibition presented by The Forwardian Arts Society to determine what images will appear on the front and back cover of the upcoming 10th issue of their literary and arts magazine titled, “Forwardian.” The Artists' Reception is scheduled for Friday May 1^st beginning at 6pm. More information about The Forwardian Arts Society, its literary and arts magazine, and the competition can be gained by exploring their website at www.forwardianarts.org. I hope to see you then.

Photography by Paparazzi Paul