In these modern times where everything seems to be virtual, electronic and online there is something to be said about tangibility; about things concrete and three dimensional. For stuff that cannot only be observed and appreciated but touched and felt. Sound of Art’s latest Art Experience BREAKING THE MOLD in collaboration with AIRWALK satisfies that very need for sensorial indulgence. The event was held at the swank HOTEL ON RIVINGTON in the L.E.S. and the fortunate ones that made it through the door were treated to luscious libations, enhanced social networking opportunities and mind-blowing sculptures made from the actual AIRWALK sneaker boxes. As a lucky participant in this art as experience function I was entranced by the work created by SOA’s ever-expanding roster of artists which included a streetscape and a fully-functional robot model. In 2009, the Sound of Art continues with its tradition of truly breaking the mold.
VENUE: BATH HOUSE
540 E. 11TH St.
(Ave. A & Ave.B)
As I walked down the ramp into the ample and sophisticated venue, Bathhouse Studios, for SOA’s latest offering The Art of Seduction I couldn’t help but feel a strong sense of exhilaration and anticipation. Over the years, The Sound of Art has garnered a well-deserved reputation for producing one-of-a-kind art events. This function held in collaboration with King Magazine and JC Cognac held true to that notion. In fact, The Art of Seduction was a breathtaking visual and visceral journey into the many meanings of seduction. The Sound of Art’s talented roster of artists created works of art specifically for this event. The powerhouse exhibit featured nearly 15 cutting edge artists, which include the infamous Heather Hunter, Voodoo Fe, M. Tony Peralta, Ed Ubiera and Mike Stone among many others. The attendees were also treated to a performance by emerging artist . Not to mention that Plum Plomidor provided some excellent hors d'oeuvres to help wash down the JC Cognac that flowed all night. Silent Voices United Inc. also raised awareness for the cause of H.I.V. in communities of color.
VENUE: WORLD
187 CHRYSTIE STREET
(betwn. Stanton and Rivington)
Few things live up to the hype nowadays. Fortunately, The Sound of Art does not fall into that category. SOA's first foray into the Lower East Side, WORLD Premiere at World boutique, exceeded all expectations. On a hot and humid New York Summer day, SOA turned World's backyard patio into an oasis of cool art, ambiance and expanded horizons. Right off the bat, the event specific art work on display by such artists as M. Tony Peralta, Too Fly and Ivette Urbaez among others completely entranced the audience. The artwork showcased al fresco was as diverse and multi-cultural as the crowd in attendance. Steaz provided their delicious green tea beverages to the gathered multitudes and Zip Car, the other major sponsor of the event, contributed a few of their art inspired vehicles to the function. Not to be outdone, Wine Cellar Sorbets delivered the goods with their delectable wine infused sorbets. DJ Strike provided the evening's soundtrack and emerging artist Tuck gave a stellar performance that blew the crowd away. All in all, it doesn't get much better than this - music, libations and fine art. Miss the next event at your own peril.
VENUE: ITS A DOMINICAN THING
144 W. 19th Street
(btwn.6th-7th Ave)
Jesus Christ!!! The Sound of Art has done it again. I don't mean to use the lord's name in vain but SOA's latest exhibit A Jeezus Piece featuring the artwork of the one and only Tony Philippou is truly divine. The launch of the collection took place at the acclaimed Latino eatery, It's a Dominican Thing, which turned water into sangria and unleashed a deluge of delectable Hor'duerves for the gathered throngs. The blessings only multiplied with the unveiling of Tony Philippou's compilation of renderings of Jesus Christ as an everyman, ranging from a b-boy to a rocker, to a pimp and a biker among others. Tony's work resonates with vitality and a raucous energy that is absolutely spellbinding. Mr. Phililppou was also on hand to expound and share some insights into his artistic perspective with the attendees. So there you have it – since you now know SOA events are good for the soul missing the next one would be a sin. Stay tuned…
VENUE: VAULT-2498 Frederick Douglass Blvd. (btwn.133rd-134th street)
If there were ever any doubts about the remarkable ability of art to completely and fundamentally transform a space they were dispelled with SOA's latest tour de force SCRATCH. BOMB. SPIT. BREAK. featuring the work of Joe Buck. For those that don't know, Joe Buck is a serious and prolific artist who through his work for Hip-Hop luminaries De La Soul has left an indelible mark on Hip-Hop culture. It is that indomitable spirit which was captured in this expansive collection of portraits and off the wall collages. This art exhibit was in actuality a dual exhibit because it showcased for the first time the entire SBSB (SCRATCH. BOMB. SPIT. BREAK.) collection in addition to a preview of Joe Buck's PEAKS AND VALLEYS compilation. What made this event truly remarkable however was the innovative manner that the art was organically embedded into the venue through a clever use of a graffiti style bubble that enveloped each of the exhibits. The bubble designed by Joe Buck himself contained the artist's personal memorabilia as well as notations, thoughts and artist-designed cover art and served as hip linear notes for the installation. The launching of the installation at Vault, Harlem's cool kicks and apparel emporium, was a rousing success and luckily for the lovers of emerging art it will be on display until August 2008.
