Las Vegas Arts and Culture

2006 2007 Winter Schedule: Dec 1, Jan 5, Feb 2

The family's left, the leftover turkey tryptophan's worn off and what do you have to look forward to between now and the next holiday? Why, First Friday, of course! It's the best excuse December 1 has to offer to get you out of the house, out on the bustling streets of Downtown and into art galleries and tents where you can find unique gifts for your loved ones.

There will be all kinds of entertainment, like music from Killian's Angels and the Southern Nevada Lamplight Carolers. Plus, the Las Vegas Chess Club will be hosting a life-size exhibition game. Check out the ART 4 AIDS exhibit at 1540 S. Commerce Street, featuring work by Nick San Pedro, Michael Wardle, Jennifer Main, Denise R. Duarte and others on the theme of HIV/Aids in honor of World Aids Day. Net proceeds will benefit Positive Vegas and the Nevada Aids Project. And while you're down there, be sure to stop by MTZC at Commerce Street Studios for the LVSK8 Deuce, which features a group of hand-painted skateboard decks. And of course be sure and try some of the great food and beverage offerings that Downtown has to offer, from Casa Don Juan to Dona Marias to Art Bar and Dino's.



Commerce Street Studios and Funk House information table --We have 25 passes for 2 to "Bodies" http://www.bodiestheexhibition.com/ exhibit and 25 passes for 2 to the "Titanic" exhibit. These will be given out beginning at 6pm (NO EARLIER) until they are gone. ONLY ONE pass per person.



Don't forget to pick up your VIP pass to Vegas’ arts scene, the Friends of First Friday membership card, which offers discounts at First Friday-friendly vendors throughout the Las Vegas Valley. To see the list of participating vendors, visit the FoFF page ( http://www.firstfriday-lasvegas.org/foff.html ) on the First Friday website. You can now join on the website by clicking the Paypal button located on the FoFF page. Buy your membership card online or on First Friday (or any time) in The Funk House.

A printable map for the First Friday Event may be found on our website or you may pick up a copy anytime @ The Funk House, 1228 South Casino Center Boulevard. Maps are also available the evenings of FIRST FRIDAY at our information booths by the Arts Factory, Commerce Street Studios, Holsum Design Center and The Funk House. Parking options are plentiful thanks to the City of Las Vegas who have kindly suspended the street meter payment obligations from 6pm through the night. Clark County provides FREE parking at the Clark County Government Center with FREE City Arts trolleys to the party from 6 to 10 pm. The trolleys stop at Commerce Street Studios, Colorado Ave Festivities (Art, Antiques, Bands and more), Arts Factory, Holsum Design Center, Not Just Antiques & The Ice House every 20 minutes beginning at 6 pm. Click link http://www.firstfriday-lasvegas.org/schedule.html for a complete schedule.

GENERALLY THE HOURS ARE FROM 6-10PM (individual hours may vary, see below)

ART-CASINO CENTER AND COLORADO

ART @ THE FUNK HOUSE-- This month - NOVEMBER 30-DEC 26, 2006 "Jewels Of The Jungle ", Ancient Ruins of the lost city in Cambodia, new work by Peter N. Operana. 384 0092. Admire Rick and his mad skills on the didgeridoo. Outside we have live art demonstrations, performing artists, & who knows what else? And as a special bonus for First Friday patrons up to 25% discount on merchandise, one night only. 6-10pm www.thefunkhouselasvegas.com

On Colorado Blvd-- Over 50 artists showing their work and performing on the street this month. Vista Four playing on Colorado Blvd in front of the Gypsy Caravan. Hot Dawg Daze, Walter's Cajun BBQ, Kettle Korn, Dino's www.dinoslv.com , and Panicci's Coffee will be providing food and libation! Be sure to stop by the Whirlygig Inc. official water and soda booth to quench your thirst, all proceeds benefit First Friday!

Land Rover Stage (Colorado and Casino Center) BANDS starting at 6pm. Music till 10pm

1. OZAN

2. THE RENDERS



3.WHISPERTRIP



4.JOE TAYLOR



5.HUNTER HARVEY



6.WINDOW



SOUTHERN NEVADA LAMPLIGHTER CAROLERS on Casino Center Blvd near The Funk House--performing at 6:30pm, 7:30pm, and 8:30pm

The Artist Original – CREATE your Original HOLIDAY Gift Baskets! Mix and match items hand made by Local Artists! Holiday Discounts on Local Ceramics, Photography, Fine Art, crafts and Ltd. Edit. Original Prints…. Gallery, and ART Garden are OPEN DAILY from 3-9pm, 1229 S. Casino Center. 805.637.3713. Support ART Feel Good..

ART CASINO CENTER AND CALIFORNIA

Art @ The Box Office F1RST FR1DAy Dec. 1st Featuring local Artist Greg Gumas, Alex Cole,Letroy Peak,Alberto,Pat Bearden,Biggs/Daria, Mpivo Photography & Shannon Dorns Exotic Posters. Broken Leash ,Eric Labar & Music of V.A.M.P 6p-10p

Casino Center and California stage: The Spell Casters performing from 6:30pm to 9:30pm

ART-MAIN STREET

Avant Gallery: "Put It In Your Head" Steve Roche / Michael Todoran /Jason Adams / Rose Bernfeld /raphaeljohnbuckles aka js&stB /Steve Olson /Russ Pope / Jessica Starkey / Kevin Willrick / Jai Tanju Wasted Space: The Backroom: DJ Ginger the photography of NeonComa
Drink: Whiskeys for the World. Learn the differences between Irish, Scottish, Canadian, and American whiskeys.

DUST GALLERY Ryan Spencer Romance and Adventure November 29 – December 31, 2006 Ryan Spencer resides: Las Vegas, Nevada Opening December 8, 2006 www.dustgallery.com

ART- COMMERCE STREET

ARTISTIC IRON-- wineNart© and Artistic Iron Works continue their “One-Stop” art event, December 1, 2006, from 6-10 pm. wineNart© works with AIW to promote over 20 artists’ artwork and showcasing of AIW’s beautiful iron furnishings/accessories. This event includes a full bar. Location: 105 W. Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas. For more information: http://www.winenart.com/artisticironworks.htm.

COMMERCE STREET STUDIOS-LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE FOR ART STUDIOS- www.commercestreetstudios.com

THERE IS NOW STUDIO SPACE AVAILABLE @ 1531-1541 S COMMERCE, DIRECTLY NORTH OF COMMERCE STREET STUDIOS FOR INFO PLEASE EMAIL: studios@commercestreetstudios.com Be sure and check out the new studios already open at this NEW location!!

420 Stainless presents new work by Michael Kruis in acrylic. Open First Fridays 6-10pm. Or by appointment 918 407 3774

Against the Wall a new art studio. Open First Fridays 6-10pm or by appointment .

Archinofsky Gallery Please join us this First Friday, Oct 6 from 6:00-10:00PM for the Artist's Reception, celebrating Antonio Gomez and his amazing exhibition!


MTZC the edge of sin city and Michael Todoran present 'LVSK8 Duece' a group show of hand painted skateboard decks. This is the follow up show to the wildly popular 'LVSK8' held earlier this year at UNLV. First Friday, Dec. 1st from 6pm to 10pm. Free. http://www.mtzc.com/ or http://www.michaeltodoran.com/ for more info.

Naked City Tattoo-(1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) For more information call 612-5516 Open Daily. Special shows on First Fridays.

Obstacle Art Course (www.obstacleartcourse.org ) The latest Whirlygig Inc. (the non-profit that brings you First Friday each month) Art Project sponsored by Todd VonBastiaans/Alios. Don't miss this exceptional art exhibit by several of Las Vegas favorite artists. golf@obstacleartcourse.org

The Modern Vegas Art Studio New work by artist Eddie Bush. Open First Friday 6-10. Open Third Thursdays 6-10pm.

NEXT DOOR : 1531-1541 Commerce Street

ART 4 AIDS exhibit at 1540 S. Commerce Street #100, space provided by Todd VonBastiaans, features Nick San Pedro, Michael Wardle, Jennifer Main, Denise R. Duarte and others on the theme of HIV/Aids in honor of World Aids Day. Net proceeds will benefit Positive Vegas and the Nevada Aids Project.

Bonnie Kelso Studio--Paintings by Bonnie Kelso, newcomer to Las Vegas. Open studio and reception from 7pm to 10pm on Friday, October 6th at 1531 Commerce Street Studios, suite 115. All are welcome.

Circadian Studios 1541 S. Commerce Suite showing new work by Daniel Pearson


ART- MAIN AND CHARLESTON

Boulder Ave Appearing on the city’s Showmobile stage is a local favorite band, Killians Angels. In commemorating World Aids Day, AFAN will host an exhibition of works by local artists living with Aids, including Wade Cook and Bob Williston. Their works, in a range of media, remind us how creativity can bring stamina and hope to those living with the disease.

capital h Gallery PERVERSION FOR PROFIT : This is a public service announcement : Repeated EXPOSURE to PORNOGRAPHY will PERVERT you! A new collection of nudie paintings, decoupage and media by Brian and Jennifer Henry. Upstairs in the Arts Factory, www.capitalh.org


CRICKET STUDIO Hours: Tues - Fri 12 noon - 4pm, Evenings/Wknds by Appointment 24/7 on the web @ www.cricketstudio.com/shop www.faceupstudio.com/press FEATURED in CRICKET STUDIO "Squaresville" works by BRIAN SWANSON through mixed media, illustrations, pastels and prints www.cricketstudio.com/shop

FEATURED in FACE UP GALLERY FACE UP - The Art of Recognition "The Mandelbrot of George" works by DAR FREELAND SPECIAL GUESTS/EVENTS TBA www.faceupstudio.com/press


H. Stephen Jackson's Architectural Studio/Gallery, In a Gallery setting, Mr. Jackson, an Architectural Concept Specialist, will
be showing a variety of project related exhibits of current and past Design work...including High-rise Mixed-Use Complexes, Casino/Resorts, Bar/Restaurants, Office, Commercial, and Residential building types. Website is www.hsj-architect.com.


MIKE WARDLE GALLERY ( upstairs in Arts Factory): Showing new work. Large abstract paintings, some with figures. Featured this month; paintings of the Rolling Stones' Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood.


TRIFECTA gallery in the Arts Factory minUMENTAL INVITATIONAL- a very large exhibition of very small work. Partial list of Invited artists: Jerry Misko, Amy Sol, Mary Warner, Brian & Jennifer Henry, Marty Walsh, Casey Weldon, Fanok, Tom Pfannerstill, Diane Bush and other favorites of Trifecta. Exhibit runs Nov. 2 - Dec 24, 2006 www.trifectagallery.com


S2 Art Center/Atelier One East Charleston Blvd. Dirty Martinis & O the r Delights. December 1-31. Lithographs on exhibit with a “beverage” the me, from Absin the , wine and beer to water any way you like it… Featured artwork from Matt Rinard includes “Dirty Martini” and “Bottled Water is for Wimps;” also Todd Goldman’s latest, “After Dinner Drink.”

Gainsburg Studio, Inc. (1039 Main Street, #103 behind S2 Art Group Building) is pleased to announce our upcoming opening featuring nationally recognized stone sculptor Sharon Gainsburg and the works of other award winning artists in all media. Gallery hours: By Appointment. 702-384-1388 http://www.gainsburgstudio.com/ Ongoing First Friday event is Free Stone Carving Open Studio with the Artist between 6pm and 10pm

HOLSUM DESIGN CENTER 231/241 W. Charleston. Stop #8 on the First Friday Event Map. Open Mon.-Sat. 11-6PM. For December: DJ entertainer Joey Saccavino spinning tunes in the Holsum courtyard; eat at the Grill on Charleston; enjoy a tasty cocktail; browse 16 galleries and shops for your holiday gifts. Info 366-9171.

ART & SOUL GALLERY at the Holsum Lofts, featuring local artist Tanti Hill showing her Raku pottery & sculpture. Also showing blown art glass works from Geo Soul Arts. 241 W. Charleston Blvd. Suite 130. Open Wed-Sat 12-4. 795-2787.

Contemporary Arts Collective announces the "Winter Solstice" exhibition and art sale. Show will open December 2nd First Friday through Tuesday December 26th. For information call 702-382-3886. The Contemporary Arts Collective, 231 West Charleston Blvd., Suite 110, Las Vegas, NV 89102 at the Holsum Lofts “Gateway to the Arts District”. info@lasvegascac.org , http://www.lasvegascac.org/

Gallery P - Dec. lst -3lst. Artwork by Maynard, Iglikowska, Gieraga, Spann, Metzler, Shortridge, Gilmore,Volborth, Ross, Cook, Constantine, Flanders, and Palermo. 231 W. Charleston, Suite 160 (at the Holsum Lofts) 384-8155. Gallery hrs. noon-4:30 p.m. Tues. - Sat.; Sun. & Mon by appt. only.

Home Expression -Manufactures of Fauxstone Furniture and unique home décor. The works of Russ and Mary Peters in ceramic and metal, Darrel Johnston's one of kind lighthouses, Mark Hines glass and metal vases and Steven Kaye pottery are some of the beautiful pieces that you can find here.

Las Vegas Paper Doll: Do the write thing this month. Visit this fantastic shop that features stationery and notecards from the paper industry's top designers such as R.Nichols and Saturate. The space also features the roses of artist FB Fogg who uses an ancient Egyptian paper making technique in her colorful work. Open 10.30am to 6pm Tue-Fri; First Fridays until 10pm. For more information, please contact (702) 385-7892 or visit www.lvpaperdoll.com.

Lynn Peri Collection 241 W. Charleston Blvd. Suite 160. 366-9171. In the Holsum Design Center. Holiday opening featuring ornaments by Eric Cortina; sculpture demonstration by Roy Butler; portrait demonstration by Gregory Colhouer. Discover new works by eight local artists; Italian etchings and unique gifts. Open Tues.-Sat. 11-6PM.

MGriesgraber Gallery Parody Paintings "Gauguin in the 21st Century" on exhibit. October 6 through December 23, 2006

Mist Harbor Tapestries and Décor (Suite 140).View pieces from our newest gallery addition, artist James Dean and his famous blue cat, Pete, as they make their Las Vegas debut. PetetheCat travels many places and is sure make you laugh out loud. For additional information visit mistharbor.com or petethecat.com


ART NEARBY

ArT Gallery at Not Just Antiques 1422 Western Avenue - Combine a cup of tea and ART including latest arriveal by Adriano Chaves! Local Artists will be giving us a face lifet all day long with a mural on our walls - giving us a new look! Limited Gallery space available www.NotJustAntiquesMart.com

Clark County Government Center The Clark County 3-D Invitational with work by Chris Bauder, Daisey Contin and Richard Hesketh, 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. Amphitheater: Veruca Salt and special guests, FREE; doors open at 6 p.m. Food and beverages and local merchants on site.


REED WHIPPLE CULTURAL CENTER: Open until 9 pm on First Friday


SHOPPING-MAIN AND CHARLESTON


DURETTE STUDIO: Stop in and listen to a set of live Jazz featuring Mike Candito's Jazz Trio, while browsing our unusual selection of knobs, knockers, and accessories. Great Fall and Holiday decorating ideas. Specials throughout the store. Open First Friday 'til 9PM.

MODIFY: Vintage Modern furnishings. Open late.

OPPORTUNITY VILLAGE THRIFT SHOP: Opportunity Village First Friday store hours 9:00am til 10:00pm. Sales throughout the entire store. 50% off selected items. Come shop and save. Check out our collectable items, we also have some wild funky items for sale!!

THE ATTIC: 20 % off sale. Open till 8pm

SHOPPING-COLORADO AND CASINO CENTER

D'LOE HOUSE OF STYLE: Charleston between Casino Center and 3rd Street Vintage clothing and accessories. Refreshments. Open late.

Gypsy Caravan Antiques and Sweet Pea's Dolls--Open Late. 10% discount to First Friday patrons

Trudi's Furs--selling vintage furs, open late on First Friday


SHOPPING NEARBY

NOT JUST ANTIQUES: A FF Trolley Stop! 12,000 sq ft filled with Antiques, Collectibles & Art. Get off the trolley and enjoy an old fashioned Christmas Boutique! Free Trade Exhibit, Music, Free Hot Dogs - and come see how local artists have painted a gorgeous mural. Free Tarot Reader in our Tea Gallery. Limited Gallery Space Avail Open until 10 PM. 1422 Western Avenue

AFTER PARTIES

DINO'S LOUNGE: From 10:30 to ?? 2 LIVE BANDS, followed by Karaoke with host Danny G. Live bands every Friday night. Check website for future dates and details. www.dinoslv.com 382-3894

Get Back: funky soul dance party at the BEAUTY BAR! Check it out and prepare to have a funky good time w/ deejays: John Doe, Danny Boy, Phoreyz, Aurajin and special guests. 10pm until the wee hours. $5 for girls, $10 for guys. Drink specials all night, free easy parking, and a great vibe guaranteed...besides, where else can you completely cut loose on a dancefloor to an old dusty funk 45 and be joined by a few hundred other funky soul freaks?? Only at Las Vegas' only Funky Soul Dance Party: "The Get Back"!! Check out http://www.thegetbackvegas.com/ for more details.

Hogs & Heifers Saloon is proud to be a part of and support First Friday. Come and join our beautiful and sassy women for cold beer, loud
classic American music and a lot of attitude! We've got 65+ feet of designated motorcycle parking right out front, so ride on down! BEST
Friends and FRIENDS of First Friday are entitled to drink and merchandise discounts. Leave your apprehension at the door and have a sh*t kickin' good time at Hogs & Heifers!

THE ICE HOUSE: Live bands and drink specials . www.icehouselounge.com

RESTAURANTS AND CAFES

Andre's Wine & Cheese Tasting, First Friday December 2006, 5:30pm - 9:00pm 401 S. 6th St., 702/385-5016 Sample 4 wines and enjoy a cheese plate from our extensive fromage selection. Featured artist; Andre's Niece, Isabelle Michaud. 15.00 per person. Nevada sales tax and gratuity are not included.

Island Flavors Cafe 300 E. Charleston Blvd. Ste. 101 phone 702.474.7127

TINOCO'S BISTRO (www.tinocosbistro.net ), CHICAGO JOE'S, CASA DON JUAN & FLORIDA CAFE (www.cuban-food-usa.com/vegas_florida.html ) all have food & drink specials throughout the evening!

sbe added to our email list contact:

info@firstfriday-lasvegas.org

Exhibit to raise funds, awareness


By Kristen Peterson
Las Vegas Sun


Positive Vegas, a newly organized HIV/AIDS support group, is celebrating its launch with Art4AIDS, a fundraising art exhibit near the Commerce Street Studios.

The exhibit at First Friday coincides with World AIDS Day.

Several local artists are contributing or painting works that reflect their interpretation of AIDS in this one-night-only show. Mike Wardle, Jennifer Main, Denise Duarte and Daniel Pearson are among the participating artists.

"Rather than use the 'red ribbon' (the traditional symbol of AIDS awareness), I asked to focus on their interpretation of what HIV means to them, whether it's strength or fear," Positive Vegas director Tony Polimeni says. He founded the group after he was diagnosed as HIV-positive six months ago.

The exhibit, he says, keeps alive the discussion of what AIDS is and "what it looks like today," 25 years after the beginning of the AIDS epidemic.

Polimeni, who is not an artist, is contributing a piece to the exhibit: a mirror with the words, "Does HIV look like me?"

The exhibit is a partnership of Positive Vegas and the nonprofit group Nevada AIDS Project. Polimeni says proceeds from the sale of the art will be used by Positive Vegas to establish its nonprofit status.

Details: 6-11 p.m. Friday, 1541 S. Commerce St., www.positivevegas.org

posted by Las Vegas Art and Culture @ 6:43 AM   0 comments

An exploration of sexuality and gender

By Kristen Peterson
Las Vegas Sun


Judging by the billboards and nightclub ads, Las Vegas likes its women naked, chesty and, more important, submissive.

So how dare the Contemporary Arts Collective meddle with the city's traditional ways by bringing in a sexually explorative exhibit on the nuances of gender?

"We liked what it had to say," says Brian "Paco" Alvarez, vice president of the collective, where "Unrealizable Dreams" is on display through Oct. 14.

The exhibit re-examines sexuality and gender through the photographs of Deborah Bright and Ivana George.

Bright, a photography and art history professor at Rhode Island School of Design, uses a collection of toy ponies to re-examine an archetypical "girlhood obsession with horses" and the seemingly innocent relationship. Bold, sensual and erotic, the toy ponies in soft lighting or bondage gear give new meaning to feminine power and bring alive her girlhood fantasies.

George, an assistant professor of art at Bridgewater State College in Massachusetts, works in video and photography. Her chimera series features George and her fiance in a fantastical narrative set in a forest. Poses reference neoclassical sculpture. George is dressed as the satyr, which theatrically, she says, "has always been a trickster messing around with people's expectations."

The artists submitted their work together.

"We're both interested in getting people to think about sexuality in alternative ways," George says. "The way we compartmentalize gender and sexual orientation creates comfort for people, but also discrimination and limits the way people can express themselves."

Details: "Unrealizable Dreams," through Oct. 14. Artist reception from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. today with an artist talk at 6:30 p.m.; Contemporary Arts Collective, 231 W. Charleston Blvd., Suite 110; 382-3886C

The Contemporary Arts Collective
Now Located in the Historic Holsum Bread Building
The Gateway to the Las Vegas Arts District
231 West Charleston Boulevard, Suite 110
Las Vegas, Nevada 89102
(702) 382-3886

Or Visit their website at http://www.lasvegascac.org

ART-CASINO CENTER AND COLORADO
ART @ THE FUNK HOUSE-- Retina Confection, opening reception first friday oct 6, art @ the funk house 6-10pm works by Crystal J. Taylor medium :acrylic,ink,watercolor. show hangs til nov 1 Admire Rick and his mad skills on the didgeridoo. Outside we have live art demonstrations, performing artists, & who knows what else? Plus up to 25% discount on merchandise for First Friday patrons. 6-10pm www.thefunkhouselasvegas.com


On Colorado Blvd-- Over 50 artists showing their work and performing on the street this month. Vista Four playing on Colorado Blvd. Hot Dawg Daze, Agave Taco Cart, Kettle Korn, Dino's www.dinoslv.com , Fat Daddy's Ice Cream and Panicci's Coffee will be providing food and libation! Be sure to stop by the Whirlygig Inc. official water and soda booth to quench your thirst, all proceeds benefit First Friday!

Land Rover Stage (Colorado and Casino Center Blvd) BANDS starting at 6pm. Music til 10pm

-SPUTNIK MONROE ---DAVID SIMMONS---ISUL KIM---BONE DADDY---OUTLETT

Scary sexy souls Halloween art @ The Box Office… Octobers F1RST FRIDAy brings art, craft, photography. the count, frank & bride, wolfe, mummies dearest & others disc jockeys & spooky band. red carpet invites you to enter two room venue. Sidestreet café Break dancing b-boy ninjas performing near the hearse.

ART-MAIN STREET

The Epicenter 1114 S. Main (inside Nevada Radiator). NEW WORK by Amy Sol and Casey Weldon

DUST GALLERY Hifalutin Peter Fox & Lisa Stefanelli September 8-October 15, 2006 Peter Fox resides: Brooklyn, New York
Lisa Stefanelli resides: New York, New York www.dustgallery.com

G-C Arts ED RUSCHA: Works on Paper Exhibition Dates: October 6 - December 31, 2006 OPENING RECEPTION October 6, 6-8 pm
ART- COMMERCE STREET


COMMERCE STREET STUDIOS-LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE FOR ART STUDIOS- www.commercestreetstudios.com

THERE IS NOW STUDIO SPACE AVAILABLE @ 1531-1541 S COMMERCE, DIRECTLY NORTH OF COMMERCE STREET STUDIOS FOR INFO PLEASE EMAIL: studios@commercestreetstudios.com Be sure and check out the new studios already open at this NEW location!!

420 Stainless presents new work by Michael Kruis in acrylic. Open First Fridays and Third Thursdays 6-10pm.
Or by appointment 918 407 3774

Against the Wall a new art studio. Open First Fridays 6-10pm and Third Thursdays 6-10pm or by appointment .

Archinofsky Gallery Please join us this First Friday, Oct 6 from 6:00-10:00PM for the Artist's Reception, celebrating Antonio Gomez and his amazing exhibition!

MTZC the edge of sin city presents Dirk Vermin's now famous or is it infamous Tattoos and Trash a show you will not want to miss showcasing some of Las Vegas finest tattoo artists work, but not just their tattoo art, curious, guess we'll see you on First Friday Oct 6 . Don't forget to join us on Third Thursdays and get a chance to meet with the artists!

Naked City Tattoo-(1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) For more information call 612-5516 Open Daily. Special shows on First Fridays and Third Thursdays.

Obstacle Art Course (www.obstacleartcourse.org ) The latest Whirlygig Inc. (the non-profit that brings you First Friday each month) Art Project sponsored by Todd VonBastiaans/Alios. Don't miss this exceptional art exhibit by several of Las Vegas favorite artists. golf@obstacleartcourse.org

The Modern Vegas Art Studio New work by artist Eddie Bush. Open First Friday 6-10. Open Third Thursdays 6-10pm.

NEXT DOOR : 1531-1541 Commerce Street

Bonnie Kelso Studio--Paintings by Bonnie Kelso, newcomer to Las Vegas. Open studio and reception from 7pm to 10pm on Friday, October 6th at 1531 Commerce Street Studios, suite 115. All are welcome.

Circadian Studios showing new work by Daniel Pearson

One Way Design Opening reception First Friday Oct 6 http://onewaydesign.zoto.com/galleries and http://www.myspace.com/onewaydesignlasvegas

dzikas. terry suite 130 showing new work open First Friday Oct 6


ART- MAIN AND CHARLESTON
Nevada Ballet Theatre takes the main stage on Boulder Avenue with a production of "In the Mood," a short ballet based on works by Glen Miller. Choreographed by Bruce Steivel, the work pays tribute to service men and women --revisiting war time days of World War II with legendary songs like Boogey Woogey Bugle Boy. Performances at 7 and 9 pm.
Blue Sky Yoga in the Arts Factory, 101 E. Charleston, upstairs, Suite 204. "Pay What You Can" classes. See www.blueskyyogalv.com for a full class schedule and special events including our outdoor classes at Redrock Canyon. Call Cheryl for info @ 592-1396.

capital h Gallery PERVERSION FOR PROFIT : This is a public service announcement : Repeated EXPOSURE to PORNOGRAPHY will PERVERT you! A new collection of nudie paintings, decoupage and media by Brian and Jennifer Henry. Upstairs in the Arts Factory, www.capitalh.org

CRICKET STUDIO Hours: Tues - Fri 12 noon - 4pm, Evenings/Wknds by Appointment 24/7 on the web @ www.cricketstudio.com/shop www.faceupstudio.com/press FEATURED in CRICKET STUDIO "Squaresville" works by BRIAN SWANSON through July 25, 2006 mixed media, illustrations, pastels and prints www.cricketstudio.com/shop

FEATURED in FACE UP GALLERY FACE UP - The Art of Recognition "The Mandelbrot of George" works by DAR FREELAND through July 25, 2006 SPECIAL GUESTS/EVENTS TBA www.faceupstudio.com/press

H. Stephen Jackson's Architectural Studio/Gallery, In a Gallery setting, Mr. Jackson, an Architectural Concept Specialist, will
be showing a variety of project related exhibits of current and past Design work...including High-rise Mixed-Use Complexes, Casino/Resorts, Bar/Restaurants, Office, Commercial, and Residential building types. Website is www.hsj-architect.com.

MIKE WARDLE GALLERY ( upstairs in Arts Factory): Showing new work. Large abstract paintings, some with figures. Featured this month; paintings of the Rolling Stones' Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood.

TRIFECTA gallery in the Arts Factory OCTOBER 4 - 27 2006 MARTY WALSH the MONOPOLY series

S2 Art--The World According to Snoopy. October 6-31. The Peanuts characters come alive in this exhibition of limited-edition lithographs by artist Tom Everhart. Everhart has succeeded in taking Schulz’s familiar characters in a new direction, by recording the movements of light and color in non-literal landscapes and settings. The newest release of limited edition lithographs will be on display.
Gainsburg Studio, Inc. (1039 Main Street, #103 behind S2 Art Group Building) is pleased to announce our upcoming opening featuring nationally recognized stone sculptor Sharon Gainsburg and the works of other award winning artists in all media. Gallery hours: By Appointment. 702-384-1388 http://www.gainsburgstudio.com/ Ongoing First Friday event is Free Stone Carving Open Studio with the Artist between 6pm and 10pm


HOLSUM LOFTS 231 W. Charleston www.holsumlofts.com

ART & SOUL GALLERY at the Holsum Lofts, featuring local artist Tanti Hill showing her Raku pottery & sculpture. Also showing blown art glass works from Geo Soul Arts. 241 W. Charleston Blvd. Suite 130. Open Wed-Sat 12-4. 795-2787.

Cheflive presents a cutting-edge culinary entertainment venue that offers a state-of-the-art exhibition kitchen and cooking demonstrations featuring chefs from Las Vegas and around the world. The Cheflive Studio has three shows daily Monday-Saturday at 11:30AM, 2:00PM and 4:30PM. All shows are filmed to broadcast via the internet. Please call for reservations - 228-4705. ENJOY CHEFLIVE!!

Contemporary Arts Collective located at 231 W Charleston Blvd, Suite 110 presents "Unrealizable Dreams: A photographic Exploration " on September 12, 2006 and it will run through October 14th..

Home _Expression -Manufactures of Fauxstone Furniture and unique home décor. The works of Russ and Mary Peters in ceramic and metal, Darrel Johnston's one of kind lighthouses, Mark Hines glass and metal vases and Steven Kaye pottery are some of the beautiful pieces that you can find here.

Las Vegas Paper Doll: Do the write thing this month. Visit this fantastic shop that features stationery and notecards from the paper industry's top designers such as R.Nichols and Saturate. The space also features the roses of artist FB Fogg who uses an ancient Egyptian paper making technique in her colorful work. Open 10.30am to 6pm Tue-Fri; First Fridays until 10pm. For more information, please contact (702) 385-7892 or visit www.lvpaperdoll.com.

Lynn Peri Collection 241 West Charleston Blvd. Suite 160 in the historic Holsum Bakery Building. Sept. 15 - Oct. 15, presenting the inspired sculptural works of six local artists: Larry & Barbary Domsky, metal & glass; Jennifer Gilbert, metal; Joy Prendergast, glass Leslie Rowland, painted furniture; Teresa Testa, porcelain. 366-9171.

MGriesgraber Gallery Parody Paintings "Gauguin in the 21st Century" on exhibit. October 6 through December 23, 2006

Mist Harbor Tapestries and Décor (Suite 140).View pieces from our newest gallery addition, artist James Dean and his famous blue cat, Pete, as they make their Las Vegas debut. PetetheCat travels many places and is sure make you laugh out loud. For additional information visit mistharbor.com or petethecat.com.


ART NEARBY

ArT Gallery at Not Just Antiques 1422 Western Avenue - Combine a cup of tea and see new collection of 50 oils & prints from the older Vegas artists who were here in the 70s & 80s. Limited Gallery Space Avail www.NotJustAntiquesMart.com

Clark County Government Center Rotunda: The Clark County 3-D Invitational with work by Chris Bauder, Daisey Contin and Richard Hesketh, 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. Amphitheater: The Art Council of Henderson and Clark County present William Shakespeare's Hamlet, performed by the Arkansas Repertory Theatre, 7 p.m. FREE

REED WHIPPLE CULTURAL CENTER: Open until 9 pm on First Friday


SHOPPING-MAIN AND CHARLESTON


DURETTE STUDIO: Stop in and listen to a set of live Jazz featuring Mike Candito's Jazz Trio, while browsing our unusual selection of knobs, knockers, and accessories. Great Fall and Holiday decorating ideas. Specials throughout the store. Open First Friday 'til 9PM.

MODIFY: Vintage Modern furnishings. Open late.

OPPORTUNITY VILLAGE THRIFT SHOP: Opportunity Village First Friday store hours 9:00am til 10:00pm. Sales throughout the entire store. 50% off selected items. Come shop and save. Check out our collectable items, we also have some wild funky items for sale!!

THE ATTIC: 20 % off sale. Open till 8pm

SHOPPING-COLORADO AND CASINO CENTER

D'LOE HOUSE OF STYLE:on Charleston between Casino Cent Vintage clothing and accessories. Refreshments. Open late.

Gypsy Caravan Antiques and Sweet Pea's Dolls--Open Late. 10% discount to First Friday patrons

HUE Lofts at Art Central! The showroom located at 300 E. Charleston Blvd. Suite 121 will be open late for First Friday! HUE Lofts is an ultra modern high-rise condominium development in the heart of the Arts District. Call 702-648-5638 or visit http://www.huelofts.com/.


SHOPPING NEARBY

NOT JUST ANTIQUES: A FF Trolley Stop! 12,000 sq ft filled with Antiques, Collectibles & Art. Get off the trolley and enjoy an old fashioned Christmas Boutique! Free Tarot Reader and Tea Gallery. Other October Surprises! Open until 10 PM. 1422 Western Avenue www.NotJustAntiquesMart.com


RED ROOSTER: Antiques,10% off merchandise for First Friday patrons. Open late.

AFTER PARTIES
CELEBRITY SHOWROOM--on Third Street. LIVE MUSIC!!

DINO'S LOUNGE: From 10:30 to 1:00 a.m. Suite 666, followed by Karaoke with host Danny G. Live bands every Friday night. Check website for future dates and details. www.dinoslv.com 382-3894

Get Back: funky soul dance party at the BEAUTY BAR! Check it out and prepare to have a funky good time w/ deejays: John Doe, Danny Boy, Phoreyz, Aurajin and special guests. 10pm until the wee hours. $5 for girls, $10 for guys. Drink specials all night, free easy parking, and a great vibe guaranteed...besides, where else can you completely cut loose on a dancefloor to an old dusty funk 45 and be joined by a few hundred other funky soul freaks?? Only at Las Vegas' only Funky Soul Dance Party: "The Get Back"!! Check out http://www.thegetbackvegas.com/ for more details.

Hogs & Heifers Saloon is proud to be a part of and support First Friday. Come and join our beautiful and sassy women for cold beer, loud
classic American music and a lot of attitude! We've got 65+ feet of designated motorcycle parking right out front, so ride on down! BEST
Friends and FRIENDS of First Friday are entitled to drink and merchandise discounts. Leave your apprehension at the door and have a sh*t kickin' good time at Hogs & Heifers!

THE ICE HOUSE: Live bands and drink specials . www.icehouselounge.com

RESTAURANTS AND CAFES

Andre's Wine & Cheese Tasting, Friday, October 6, 2006, 5:30pm - 9:00pm 401 S. 6th St., 702/385-5016 Sample 4 wines and enjoy a cheese plate from our extensive fromage selection. Featured artist; Blake Micheletto, Andre's Sommelier. 15.00 per person. Sales tax and gratuity are not included.

Island Flavors Cafe 300 E. Charleston Blvd. Ste. 101 702.474.7127

TINOCO'S BISTRO (www.tinocosbistro.net ), CHICAGO JOE'S, CASA DON JUAN & FLORIDA CAFE (www.cuban-food-usa.com/vegas_florida.html ) all have food & drink specials throughout the evening!

To be added to our email list contact:

info@firstfriday-lasvegas.org

The Contemporary Arts Collective
Now Located in the Historic Holsum Bread Building
The Gateway to the Las Vegas Arts District
231 West Charleston Boulevard, Suite 110
Las Vegas, Nevada 89102
(702) 382-3886

Or Visit their website at http://www.lasvegascac.org

COMING SOON!!!

Just as the city keeps on moving in the right direction, so I have to as well. Neither a whore nor a drunk, I'll be getting out of Vegas unscathed. And the city is giving me a good reason to be happy doing so, with temps in the 110's. Too damn hot.

The nice thing about leaving Vegas will be the return visits. My first big city home, New Orleans, remains almost unchanged with every visit. Vegas practically changes daily, with new building carving up the skyline, new bars, new trends, new flights of fancy.

I was happy to call New Orleans home, happy to have Vegas as my home, and Atlanta is looking good as well. I work to pass this site over to Vegas locals, so keep an eye out. New stuff may be coming. While you're here, there's loads of articles to be found here so start digging, I'll be posting at my new site, Neon Poisoning, so drop on by.

So now, I leave you with my last and newest Vegas find. Only in in Sin City would the university have the need for a Center for Gaming Research. Center Manager David G. Schwartz "areas of specialty include the history, casino surveillance and security, gaming and technology, and related issues." But it's his pictures of carpet are what are really great! Carpet you say, all dismisive-like. This is Vegas and we do carpet like no one else!

Thanks for reading, Rob

From the vintage computer of Cindy Funkhouser comes this email about the upcoming First Friday activities...

"First Friday June 3

With so many venues and only four hours to sample them, you must have missed a few spots at May’s enormous First Friday. Come down in June and see what’s new at your old favorites and also to check out the new, newer and newest locations. Holsum Lofts gives glimpses into the historic preservation/renovation of the old bread factory, now filled with lofts and studios like Home Expressions, with its unique home decor, and Chef Live, homebase for a new show will begin selling tickets. Over at Commerce Street Studios ( http://www.commercestreetstudios.com/ ), Archinofsky Gallery will be hosting a unique and innovative exhibition, displaying the belt buckles of Lily Cox-Richard. Cox-Richard, a visiting artist from Virginia, toured the country for a year with her trucker boyfriend, spending countless hours dining at truck stops and meeting truckers from every region in the country. The experience was monumental enough to inspire the artist to create these belt buckles to commemorate and share with the rest of our culture, which tends to overlook this vital American industry. Plus, stop by the Aruba for some swing-dancing lessons, or just to soak in the Old-Vegas scene. And, of course, be sure and drop in at the latest Arts District libations depot, Art Bar, which is owned by one of our town’s more famous Elvis impersonators. And since you’ve already started drinking, Dino’s is an absolute must for their First Friday afterparty. This month it’s the fabulous Pete Contino band ( http://www.petecontino.com/ ), which plays a grooving mixture of blues, zydeco and funk, and is the perfect complement to a cold Newcastle.


Don't forget to pick up your VIP pass to Vegas’ arts scene, the Friends of First Friday membership card, which offers discounts at First Friday-friendly vendors throughout the Las Vegas Valley, including art galleries, bars/restaurants, antique shops, special events, boutiques, salons, yoga and pilates studios, and tattoo parlors. To see the list of participating vendors, visit the FoFF page at http://www.firstfriday-lasvegas.org/ . Cards may be purchased the First Friday of every month from 6 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, May 7th, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at various locations Downtown or at The Funkhouse, 1228 S. Casino Center Blvd., from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Sat. “Friends” cards cost $10; “Best Friends” cards cost $25 and include an invitation for you and a guest to First Friday pre-parties beginning in May.

A printable map of the Arts District may be found on our website or you may pick up a copy anytime @ The Funk House, 1228 South Casino Center Boulevard. Maps are also available the evenings of FIRST FRIDAY at Commerce Street Studios, 1551 S. Commerce Street, S2Art, One East Charleston, Ice House Lounge, 650 South Main Street and at the Arts Factory, 103 East Charleston. Parking options are plentiful thanks to the City of Las Vegas who have kindly suspended the street meter payment obligations in addition to providing FREE parking at the Clark County Government Center with a FREE trolley to the party from 6 to 10 pm. The City of Las Vegas, in its continuing generosity, has also provided transportation for the entire evening via the City of Las Vegas Arts Bus, which stops at: Commerce Street Studios, The Funk House, Holsum Lofts, Not Just Antiques, Arts Factory & The Ice House every 20 minutes beginning at 6 pm. Click link http://www.firstfriday-lasvegas.org/schedule.html for additional stops. And, as always during the evenings of FIRST FRIDAY, don't forget to enter our RAFFLE for all kinds of cool stuff including a $25 gift certificate from the Beauty Bar ( http://www.beautybar.com/ ), an annual pass for two to the GUGGENHEIM HERMITAGE (located in the Venetian), a gift certificate for a free facial at The Globe Salon ( http://www.globesalon.com/ ), a $50 gift certificate to the Las Vegas Premium Outlets www.premiumoutlets.com/outlets/outlet.asp?id=58 and FIRST FRIDAY t-shirts. Patrons may enter the raffle at Commerce Street Studios (1551 S. Commerce http://www.commercestreetstudios.com/ ),The Funk House, The Ice House, Arts Factory & S2Art Center; winners will be notified by phone. We would like to thank http://www.thevegashustler.com/ for their contribution of volunteers every First Friday! We would also like to thank Miller Lite for providing free First Friday water bottles to our artist participants in the tents in last month's event!!



GENERALLY THE HOURS ARE FROM 6-10PM (invidual hours may vary, see below)


ART-CASINO CENTER AND COLORADO:

ART @ THE FUNK HOUSE--"The Show Must Go On", photography by Misha hanging June 1-june 28, 2005. Plus, take time to stop by for a reading from a fortune teller and admire Rick and his mad skills on the didgeridoo. Outside we have hand made tiles by sculptor Denise Duarte, live art demonstrations, other performing artists, and who knows what else? Plus up to 35% discount on merchandise for First Friday patrons. www.thefunkhouselasvegas.com

ON THE STREET- Women of Diversity. The creative process of the Women of Diversity Triad Tower will be showcased in a photo essay at artist, Denise R. Duarte's display outside of The Funkhouse. The Women of Diversity Triad Tower, currently being displayed at the "100 Years of Influence: The Role of Women in Shaping the First 100 Years of Las Vegas," a Centennial event presented by Women of Diversity Productions, Inc. is at the Las Vegas Art Museum, 9600 W. Sahara Avenue. It is a large-scale architectural ceramic sculpture created by four local women artists. Denise R. Duarte, who exhibits her work at every First Friday, was the lead artist. The artist team included Lois Dohra, Sophia Lenz and Cyd Madsen. For more information, please call (702) 372-3755

Fat Daddy’s Ice Cream Outside the Funkhouse. Las Vegas’ only 24-hour ice cream truck. We bring ice cream to your special events, birthday parties and car shows. Guaranteed cleanest ice cream truck in town! Book your special event now! www.FatDaddysIceCream.com

DRAY'S PLACE- (across the street from The Funk House): Open studio, showing new work by Dray. www.draysplace.com

SPART IV STUDIO- (across the street from The Funk House)-Friday June 3rd Waithe will host an art auction of
his recent paintings & sculptures to raise monies to connstruct a lifesize wood sculpture of Sammy Davis
Jr. The original sketch will be unvieled at the next First Friday, On Saturday June 4th the piece will be constructed
live at Waihtes' studio/gallery located 1300 Casino Center Bvld.#1 Waithe currently has an art exhibit in the lobby
downtown of the Community Bank of Nevada.(4th & Lewis.)

WETZEL PHOTO GALLERY- (across the street from The Funk House) Showing new work by Christine Wetzel. Open late.

WORMWOOD STUDIO- (across the street from The Funk House) Open studio

ART-MAIN STREET

DUST GALLERY (on Main St south of Charleston): May 1 – June 18, 2005 DUST presents large format paintings of fashion industry powerhouses by Alonso Mateo, a Cuban born artist living in Mexico City. Open Wed – Sat noon -5pm Reception First Friday June 3, 2005
6 – 10 pm www.dustgallery.com

Godt-Cleary Projects (on Main St. south of Charleston) presents, DOUBLE EXPSOURE, an exhibition of works by 14 internationally recognized artists in its Main Gallery: Uta Barth, Vanessa Beecroft, Thomas Demand, Olafur Eliasson, Nan Goldin, Candida Höfer, Axel Hütte, Alfredo Jaar, Bill Jacobson, Malerie Marder, Barbara Probst, Thomas Ruff, James Welling and Catherine Yaas. Back Gallery: New Works for the Young Collector, Inka Essenhigh, Ray Charles White, James Siena, among others.

MAIN STREET STUDIOS--OPENING SOON--LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE FOR GALLERIES AND STUDIOS, go to: http://www.mainstreetstudioslv.com/



ART- COMMERCE STREET:

COMMERCE STREET STUDIOS--LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE, go to- http://www.commercestreetstudios.com/

Archinofsky Gallery-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) Archinofsky Gallery is located in the new building for the arts, Commerce Street Studios, which anchors the southern end of the quickly expanding arts district. June’s exhibition displays the works of Virginia artist Lily Cox-Richard and local artist, Danny Mollahan. "RIGHT OF WAY" explores with humor, form and sensitivity "the myths of Americana." Cox-Richard’s handcrafted belt buckles are inspired by conversations with truckers during a year riding shotgun on a big rig. Mollahan’s photographs pay tribute to America's workers.

Ka’Mir Studio: Showing new work every month from Colleen Fanning, Brooke Wilson and other artists. Oil paintings, photography, and graphic design studio (open daily or by appointment). For more information, call the studio 702-383-2852 or cell 702-592-2411.

Lorraine Leslie Studio-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) New and previously viewed paintings by the artist Lorraine Leslie. Themes include the tarot, subconscious archetypes, personal symbolism and mythology. Refreshments will be served. 328-6756. http://www.lorraineleslie.com/

Naked City Tattoo-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) showing new work. World famous artist tatoos FREE all day. For more information call 612-5516

Serena's Photography-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) "Vision Quest". For more information call 580-7076

Shannon Webb Studio-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) Opening March 4 First Friday showing new work by Shannon Webb. For more information call 371-4300 http://www.shannonwebb.com/

studio MTZ-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) presents "PULP," works on paper by Mark T. Zeilman. A different look by an artist who has become known for his one-of-a-kind paintings on canvas. Done on watercolor paper with pen, ink and acrylic washes, Zeilman brings his unique visions on paper to studio MTZ for the June First Friday. For more information call Mark T. Zeilman at 610-5718. www.mtzart.com

Villazante Art-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) "Vision Quest". For more information call 580-7076


ART- MAIN AND CHARLESTON:

capital h Gallery (Suite 204, upstairs in Arts Factory) "HIGH NOON" our 4th Installment in the popular series, featuring the mid-century signage of Las Vegas at mid-day AND "LIGHT PORTRAITS" with "70's Steve Wynn", "Benny Binion" and "Oscar Goodman" All original works by Brian Henry Showing First Friday, June 3rd AND Sunday Brunch, June 5th.

CONTEMPORARY ARTS COLLECTIVE (in Arts Factory): presents new work www.cac-lasvegas.org

CRICKET STUDIO & FACE UP GALLERY ( upstairs in Arts Factory) :http://www.cricketstudio.com/ FACE UP •
The Art of Recognition, The "100%" Show, works by DAR FREELAND, watercolors, acrylics, originals, prints, and more. Thru June 30.
http://www.faceupstudio.co/ . In CRICKET STUDIO, "Koobies", and "Drawings from the Boneyard http://www.cricketstudio.com/boneyard ", Illustrations by BRIAN SWANSON, photographic panoramas, illustrations and pastels. Thru June 30. SPECIAL GUEST, TBA, one night only. http://www.cricketstudio.com/ FIRST FRIDAY Hours 6pm -10pm. 366.9077.

CUBE GALLERY (in Arts Factory): Christopher Rollins, Christopher Scott Studios, Digital Photography, Current Series being shown: Vintage Vegas (Old and New).Tony Tompkins, Tony Tompkins Images, Digital Photography.

5IVE FINGER MISCOUNT (in Arts Factory): Open studio featuring the work of Iceberg Slick and KD Matheson. http://www.kdarts.com/

MIKE WARDLE GALLERY ( upstairs in Arts Factory): featuring abstract expressionist paintings, both large and small. Reception 6-10 p.m. with drinks and Hors d'oeuvres.

SEAT [Social Experimentation and Absurd Theater (in Arts Factory)]: Voted Best Performance Art Group in Las Vegas 2005 by the staff of The Review Journal. Come see why! Choose from many performances Friday, May 6. 7pm : The Human Zoo (subversive sketch comedy and performance art) :: 5.00 USD 8pm : Test Market (time manipulation, dream reproduction, performance art that happens to be funny) :: 5.00 USD 9pm : The Human Zoo :: 5.00 (USD) 10pm : Croquet is Okay : The Picaresque Tale of Villainy (a new play from Seatle playwright/professor/author/poet Larry Coffin that is guaranteed to push holes into your brain while tickling your stomach with laughter.) :: 15.00 USD. SATURDAY 2pm : Confessions of a PT&A with Carole Montgomery (as seen on VH-1, Comedy Central, Showtime...) : original one-woman show that destroys the artificial stricture of conservative thinking in modern times. This is a special encore presentation. :: 10.00 (USD) Call 736-4313 or visit www.godsexandbowling.com.


TRIFECTA GALLERY (in Arts Factory): exhibiting works by Steven Spann, Marty Walsh and Jennifer Main First Friday reception 6-10 pm. 384 3860. http://www.martywalshgallery.com/ and http://www.stevenspann.com/

ZOLLAR GALLERY (in Arts Factory): Open gallery www.laurazollar.com

S2 ART: June 3 First Friday exhibits Art of the Movies lithographs (featuring AFI’s “100 Years – 100 American Movie Poster Classics”) from 7-9pm, One East Charleston. A portion of the proceeds donates to CineVegas Film Festival, June 10-18, celebrating 2005’s theme of “100 Years of Vegas, 100 Years of Film.” www.s2art.com

HOLSUM LOFTS--NEWEST FIRST FRIDAY LOCATION WILL BE OPEN WITH SHUTTLE SERVICE EVERY 20 MINUTES. www.holsumlofts.com

ART & SOUL GALLERY NOW OPEN AT THE HOLSUM LOFTS ON THE COURT YARD SUITE 130. CREATIVE PAINTINGS AND FUNCTIONAL METAL ARTWORKS.

Cheflive, a digital media production company, will sell tickets for live cooking demonstrations and classes at the Holsum Lofts beginning this summer. The studio seats an audience of 70-100 guests. We are working with some of the top chefs in Las Vegas! Please visit www.cheflive.com for details and sponsor opportunities.

GALLERY P Contemporary Fine Art Gallery with emphasis on Art beyond Post-Modernism. Featuring International, National, and local artists, including 20th Century Masters prints. Located at the Holsum Lofts, 231 W. Charleston, Suite 160. Open: Tues. thru Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 384-8155

Home Expression - (Holsum Lofts) Manufactures of Fauxstone Furniture and unique home décor. The works of Russ and Mary Peters in ceramic and metal, Darrel Johnston's one of kind lighthouses, Mark Hines glass and metal vases and Steven Kaye pottery are some of the beautiful pieces that you can find here

Mist Harbor- (Holsum Lofts) offers a unique collection of fine tapestries with a large in-stock selection to choose from. You will find whimsical and charming ideas to turn any house into a home–from Artisan House metal wall sculptures to kitchen trivets, Mist Harbor offers a little something for everyone.


ART NEARBY:

NEVADA ARTS COUNCIL: Open gallery. www.NevadaCulture.org


REED WHIPPLE CULTURAL CENTER: Open until 9 pm on First Friday. The Cultural Affairs Division of the city of Las Vegas Department of Leisure Services presents the Las Vegas Wind Quintet in concert on Sunday, June 5, at 3 p.m., in the Reed Whipple Cultural Center’s studio theatre, 821 Las Vegas Boulevard North. Admission is free, but tickets are required and are available at the box office or by mail. Ticket holders must be seated at least 15 minutes prior to the concert or their tickets will be released on a first come, first served basis. Call 229-6211 for information.

Blue Note record label pianist Jacky Terrasson performs at the Clark County Amphitheater, 500 S Grand Central Pkwy on Saturday, June 4 at 8:00 p.m. The concert is part of the long-running free Jazz in the Park Series sponsored by Clark County. Picnics are welcome and food is
available for purchase. For more information call 455-8200.


SHOPPING-MAIN AND CHARLESTON

DURETTE STUDIO: continues to add more unusual decorative door and cabinet hardware to our already incredible selection. Come see what "The Art of Decorative Hardware" is all about! The studio is currently packed with one-of-a-kind estate furniture pieces, as well as chandeliers and lamps. Enjoy the "Straight Ahead" tunes by "Studio Jazz" while you browse through the Showroom. Light refreshments. 5 to 9 pm.

MODIFY: Vintage Modern furnishings. Open late.

OPPORTUNITY VILLAGE THRIFT SHOP: store hours are 9:00 am to 10:00pm. Sales throughout the entire store. 50-percent off selected items. Come shop and
save. Check out our collectable items, we also have some wild funky items for sale!!

THE ATTIC: 20 % off sale. Open till 8pm

SHOPPING-COLORADO AND CASINO CENTER:

GYPSY CARAVAN ANTIQUES: Don's miss the surf band Vista Four playing out front!! 10% discount for First Friday patrons.

YANA'S JUNK: Refreshments; 10% discount for First Friday patrons.

ATOMIC CITY TATTOO : Come down for live music, Djs and BBQ. For more information please visit http://www.atomiccitytattoo.com/.

RED ROOSTER: 10% off merchandise for First Friday patrons. Open late.

NOT JUST ANTIQUES: is partying in the parking lot with the newest trolley stop! Live Music with Anthony Sanchez, DJ Tino (The Palm's Ghost Bar) and more live entertainment! Private Collection of Art by Sergio Bustamonte & featuring Local Artists! Free Food & Drink! Free Tarot Reading! Free Gifts! And 10% off! 1422 Western Avenue. 384-4922. www.NotJustAntiquesMart.com

D'LOE HOUSE OF STYLE: Vintage clothing and accessories. Refreshments. Open late.

IOWA CAFE: Live music, drink specials and plenty of FREE parking. Open late.

AFTER PARTIES:

DINO'S LOUNGE: From 10:30 to 1 a.m. check out the sounds of The Pete Contino Band www.petecontino.com followed by Karaoke with host Danny G. Don't miss the NINES at NINE pm Sunday June 5 !!! Check website for future dates. www.dinoslv.com

THE ICE HOUSE: "The Get Back" funky soul dance party with deejays John Doe, Danny Boy, Dirtycrum, Standing 8, Pizzo, Aurajin and Ryan Pardey. 10pm until the wee hours. $5 for girls, $10 for guys. Drink specials all night, free easy parking, and a great vibe guaranteed. Besides, where else can you cut loose on a dance floor to an old dusty funk 45 and be joined by a few hundred other funky soul freaks? Only at Las Vegas' only Funky Soul Dance Party: "The Get Back!"

VegasArtists.com: Now located in the Aruba on the strip. Visit http://www.vegasartists.com for more details.


Also, TINOCO'S BISTRO (www.tinocosbistro.net ), CHICAGO JOE'S, CASA DON JUAN & FLORIDA CAFE (www.cuban-food-usa.com/vegas_florida.html ) all have food & drink specials throughout the evening!"

The desert epicenter where the military industrial complex meets alien menace turns 50 this month. Dreamland Resort is celebrating that milestone with an Area 51 - 50-th Anniversary campout celebration.

All are invited, "We cordially invite security personnel and other guests from the Groom Lake Base. Please join us in celebrating half a century of military aviation history."

Yeah, like that's going to happen.

When you are a big-time rock and roll god, fame can make you do strange things. You get to a hotel, throw TVs out the window, do loads of drugs and have sex with every groupie within arm's reach. But what do you do after all that? Frontman for the Queens of the Stone Age Josh Homme draws on walls. He and his tattoo buddies remove the art from the walls of various hotel rooms, tattoo them and replace the art. Otherwise known as Secret Wall Tattoos.

When Queens of the Stone Age play with the Eagles of Death Metal at the House of Blues Las Vegas, their hotel room may have more art after their stay.

If ever there was a city that deserved a guide to get tourists past a cliched and two-dimensional bill-of-goods that is sold to them, it's Vegas. While working at the Guggenheim Hermitage Museum, I remember being assailed by a crunchy bohemian type about the crass commercialism, the soullessness, and thorough lack of culture in Vegas. Mind you, this was in the Rem Koolhaas-designed museum during the exhibition "Art Through The Ages: Masterpieces of Painting from Titian to Picasso." While not entirely indicative of the city on the whole, this little art lover's paradise was in Vegas, and she indeed had paid the pricey admission to see these fine works of art. So, her argument rang slightly hollow. Had she had The Underground Guide to Las Vegas she may have not complained at all. But I think she lived to complain. Anyways...

This much-needed addition to Vegas travel books answers such questions as:

What mass-transit option is 40-feet off the ground, has junk-bond status, and occasionally loses a wheel? (Page 18)

My girlfriend says when I wear a dress and shave I look like Liza Minelli. Is there a yearly convention I could attend and be surrounded by people who will love me as I am? (Page 59)

When the girl at the Asian Massage parlor takes her "clenched fist" and raises it up and down, what is she trying to tell me?" (page 177)

Where can I sell my plasma? (Page 191)

Seth Flynn Barklan, Gregory Crosby, Scott Dickensheets, Joshua Ellis, Izzy Fizler, Jarret Keene, Princess Anne Mulford, and Jenny Prosser all contributed to this book. Additionally, I got a chance to read the book prior to publication and got to give my 2 cents. So, hit up Dino's, see the literary kid, hear a great band, and buy me a drink.

If the Mini is too big, and the Yugo too short, how about a Smart Car? These teeny European cars are now being Americanized by ZAP World Cars and being made available in the US. The Americanization includes being fed a steady diet of Big Macs, watching Fox News, and making provocative military statements about the remaining members of the Axis of Evil.

And the first one is coming to Nevada. So if you are driving in our fair state you should be spotting this new car in the grill of some Hummer.

Luke 4

The Temptation of Jesus

1Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert, 2where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry.
3The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread."

4Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone.


Some times people in the desert steal bread, get caught and need to be bailed out. This is when the angry nun comes in.

More fun audio exploration from the kids at LVEXPERIMENTAL.ORG. As usual they are hosting this event at the very cool Aruba Hotel & Spa.

Does it matter if the museum lending the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art great art doesn't want to share its name on the exhibition title? Not really, but it is fun to make a big fuss about it. The Boston Globe's article about the next chapter in the Museum of Fine Arts/Bellagio art story touches upon that big fuss and the continuing criticism about the crass commercialism of the arrangement. The next show, The Impressionist Landscape from Corot to van Gogh, consists of 35 paintings and this Exhibition Checklist (PDF) has all the works' titles, artists and lender info. . .

"Gift of Miss Amelia Peabody
Bequest of William A. Coolidge
Bequest of Mrs. Henry Lee Higginson, Sr., in memory of her husband"

One would have to wonder what the blue-blooded Ms. Peabody, Mr. Coolidge, and Mrs. Henry Lee Higginson, Sr. would have thought of their art hanging in a house of gaming in the middle of the American desert. But chances are all those people are dead, so who cares.

Anyways, this Fred A. Bernstein article, A Loan That Keeps on Paying, seems to find that the criticism leveled at the non-profit/for-profit venture may reflect concerns that small/less prestigious museums could be squeezed out of future exhibitions if they don't have equally great art to lend in return. Many museums simply break-even when lending art and exhibitions to other institutions, and this for-profit model looks like a bad trend in the making.

But really, Vegas is Vegas after all. And the criticism is just another way of saying, "You can lead a whore to culture, but you can't make her think."* Any city that benefited from vice, crime and mob largess doesn't deserve to be anything more than what it once was. Right, Chicago, New York, Boston?

May's Vegas Centennial/First Friday events list (courtesy of the First Friday website) is huge. But worth reading, so enjoy. . .


The month of May has become synonymous with gigantic First Friday, and this year the festival has practically outgrown itself. In celebration of the Centennial First Friday is actually stretching into Saturday (10am-5pm). Come down and check out the largest First Friday (and Saturday) yet. There will be 100 artist tents in the streets, live music Friday night and Saturday all day by Killian's Angels, The Nines, Lon Bronson's All Star Band, The Vista Four and more, stilt dancing, fortune tellers and a frolicking Las Vegas-style birthday bash for our fair city!

Enjoy food from Sweet Georgia Brown’s and area restaurants, revel in the music of local bands and tipple to your heart’s delight at the Ice House, Dino’s, Snicks and be sure and check out the new Art Bar on Main Street and Wyoming, and shake hands with owner and Elvis impersonator Jessie Garon. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful weather while you can–summer’s on its way.

We would like to thank Cherry Development ( www.cherry-development.com ) for sponsoring this Centennial First Friday event. They have been great supporters of First Friday sponsoring three events and our First Friday billboard this year alone!!

Don't forget to pick up your VIP pass to Vegas’ arts scene, the Friends of First Friday membership card, which offers discounts at First Friday-friendly vendors throughout the Las Vegas Valley, including art galleries, bars/restaurants, antique shops, special events, boutiques, salons, yoga and pilates studios, and tattoo parlors. To see the list of participating vendors, visit the FoFF page at www.firstfriday-lasvegas.org . Cards may be purchased the First Friday of every month from 6 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, May 7th, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at various locations Downtown or at The Funkhouse, 1228 S. Casino Center Blvd., from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Sat. “Friends” cards cost $10; “Best Friends” cards cost $25 and include an invitation for you and a guest to First Friday pre-parties beginning in May.

A printable map of the Arts District may be found on our website or you may pick up a copy anytime @ The Funk House, 1228 South Casino Center Boulevard. Maps are also available the evenings of FIRST FRIDAY at Commerce Street Studios, 1551 S. Commerce Street, S2Art, One East Charleston, Ice House Lounge, 650 South Main Street and at the Arts Factory, 103 East Charleston. Parking options are plentiful thanks to the City of Las Vegas who have kindly suspended the street meter payment obligations in addition to providing FREE parking at the Clark County Government Center with a FREE trolley to the party from 6 to 10 pm. The City of Las Vegas, in its continuing generosity, has also provided transportation for the entire evening via the City of Las Vegas Arts Bus, which stops at the newest location: Commerce Street Studios, The Funk House, Arts Factory & The Ice House every 20 minutes beginning at 6 pm. Click link http://www.firstfriday-lasvegas.org/schedule.html for additional stops. And, as always during the evenings of FIRST FRIDAY, don't forget to enter our RAFFLE for all kinds of cool stuff including a $50 gift certificate from the Beauty Bar ( www.beautybar.com ) opening in May downtown, an annual pass for two to the GUGGENHEIM HERMITAGE (located in the Venetian), a gift certificate for a free facial at The Globe Salon ( www.globesalon.com ), a $50 gift certificate from Not Just Antiques, a $50 gift certificate to the Las Vegas Premium Outlets www.premiumoutlets.com/outlets/outlet.asp?id=58 and FIRST FRIDAY t-shirts. Patrons may enter the raffle at the newest location Commerce Street Studios (1551 S. Commerce www.commercestreetstudios.com ),The Funk House, The Ice House, Arts Factory & S2Art Center; winners will be notified by phone. We would like to thank www.thevegashustler.com for their contribution of volunteers every First Friday!


GENERALLY THE HOURS ARE FROM 6-10PM (invidual hours may vary, see below)

ART-CASINO CENTER AND COLORADO:

ART @ THE FUNK HOUSE--Dan Sidlow showing new works, oil on canvas hanging May 5-June 1, 2005. Plus, take time to stop by for a reading from a fortune teller and admire Rick and his mad skills on the didgeridoo. Outside we have hand made tiles by sculptor Denise Duarte, live art demonstrations, other performing artists, and who knows what else? Plus up to 50% discount on merchandise for First Friday patrons. www.thefunkhouselasvegas.com

ON THE STREET- Artist Tents, Dino's www.dinoslv.com serving beer and wine--don't miss the afterparty (see below), Sweet Georgia Brown's Barbecue, bands, stilt dancer....................

DRAY'S PLACE- (across the street from The Funk House): Open studio, showing new work by Dray. www.draysplace.com

SPART IV STUDIO- (across the street from The Funk House)-Tribute to Sammy Davis Jr. Wood carvings. Open late

WETZEL PHOTO GALLERY- (across the street from The Funk House) Showing new work by Christine Wetzel. Open late.

WORMWOOD STUDIO- (across the street from The Funk House) Open studio

ART-MAIN STREET

DUST GALLERY (on Main St south of Charleston): May 1 – June 18, 2005 DUST presents large format paintings of fashion industry powerhouses by Alonso Mateo, a Cuban born artist living in Mexico City. Open Wed – Sat noon -5pm Reception First Friday May 6, 2005
6 – 10 pm www.dustgallery.com

Godt-Cleary Projects (on Main St. south of Charleston) is pleased announce our silent auction to benefit the Nevada Cancer Institute and to celebrate FIRST FRIDAY : 100 YEARS / 100 ARTISTS. On Friday, May 6, 6 pm -10 pm and Saturday, May 7, 10 am -5 pm, over 20 exclusive items will be on view for silent bidding at Godt-Cleary Projects, with 100 percent of the proceeds to benefit the Nevada Cancer Institute.
A collection of art, objects and special events will be available for bidding, including :

Artwork by David Ryan, Ryan Spencer, Jeff Koons, VIP passes to exclusive local nightclubs including PURE and TANGERINE, dining experiences citywide including Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill and Chinois, spa packages, and more!

Bidding will begin at 6 pm on Friday evening and close at 3 pm on Saturday May 7. Contact Godt-Cleary Projects for more information: 452 2200 or info@godtcleary.com

MAIN STREET STUDIOS--OPENING SOON--SPACE AVAILABLE FOR GALLERY AND CAFE go to: www.mainstreetstudioslv.com

ART- COMMERCE STREET:

COMMERCE STREET STUDIOS- www.commercestreetstudios.com

Archinofsky Gallery-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) Local photographers and owners of Archinofsky Gallery, Garald Todd and Deborah Arin present, "Feeling Empty." Come see Garald's moody and haunting photographs in contrast with Deborah's works of engineered expanses that explore the varied emotional rollercoaster of living alone. Refreshments will be served. Gallery hours: Saturdays 12:00-5:00PM and by appointment. Open May 7th in honor of Las Vegas Centennial Celebration. For more information call 640-8226

Lorraine Leslie Studio-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) Open Studio
For more information call 328-6756

Naked City Tattoo-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) showing new work. World famous artist tatoos FREE all day. For more information call 612-5516

Serena's Photography-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) "Vision Quest". For more information call 580-7076

Shannon Webb Studio-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) Opening March 4 First Friday showing new work by Shannon Webb. For more information call 371-4300 www.shannonwebb.com

studio MTZ-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) In honor of the Centennial Celebration, studio MTZ and Archinofsky gallery invite you over for "Saturday Morning Cartoons." Saturday, May 7th from 10:00 am - until the cereal runs out. Come relax and reminisce while enjoying a good ol’ bowl of Captain Crunch or Lucky Charms and watch your favorite Saturday Morning Cartoons. All children at heart welcome! We look forward to seeing you! For more information call Mark T. Zeilman at 610-5718. www.mtzart.com

Villazante Art-NEW LOCATION (1551 S. Commerce St, 1/2 block north of Wyoming, 1 block west of Main Street) Opening show "Vision Quest". For more information call 580-7076

ART- MAIN AND CHARLESTON:

capital h Gallery (Suite 204, upstairs in Arts Factory) In celebration of our city's centennial..."HIGH NOON" our 3rd Installment in the popular series, featuring the mid-century signage of Las Vegas at mid-day AND "LIGHT PORTRAITS" with a re-hanging of CAC Wild Wild West Juried Show sensation, "70's Steve Wynn" and the unveiling of 2 more Las Vegas legends All original works by Brian Henry
Opening First Friday, May 6th AND open for the centennial celebrations Saturday, May 7th and Sunday Brunch, May 8th.

CONTEMPORARY ARTS COLLECTIVE (in Arts Factory): presents new work www.cac-lasvegas.org

CRICKET STUDIO & FACE UP GALLERY ( upstairs in Arts Factory) : The Art of Recognition 100% Show with new works by DAR FREELAND. Ink & fine art watercolor on paper, acrylics on canvas, originals and prints, t-shirts, bookmarks and more ongoing through June 30th, 2005 www.faceupstudio.com Cricket Studio (www.cricketstudio.com) "Panoramas" and "Drawings from the Boneyard " Illustrations by Brian Swanson. Photographic panoramas, illustrations on paper, pastels and prints ongoing through June 30th, 2005. With special guest Dave Bassett, a photographer, who will showcase manipulated prints and magical mystery images from around Nevada. Curious rocks will also be on display. One night only. www.bassettstudios.com

CUBE GALLERY (in Arts Factory): Christopher Rollins, Christopher Scott Studios, Digital Photography, Current Series being shown: Vintage Vegas (Old and New).Tony Tompkins, Tony Tompkins Images, Digital Photography.

5IVE FINGER MISCOUNT (in Arts Factory): Open studio featuring the work of Iceberg Slick and KD Matheson. http://www.kdarts.com/

MIKE GRIESGRABER STUDIO (in Arts Factory): new work by Mike Griesgraber.

MIKE WARDLE GALLERY ( upstairs in Arts Factory): featuring abstract expressionist paintings, both large and small. Reception 6-10 p.m. with drinks and Hors d'oeuvres.

SEAT [Social Experimentation and Absurd Theater (in Arts Factory)]: Voted Best Performance Art Group in Las Vegas 2005 by the staff of The Review Journal. Come see why! Choose from many performances Friday, May 6. 7pm : The Human Zoo (subversive sketch comedy and performance art) :: 5.00 USD 8pm : Test Market (time manipulation, dream reproduction, performance art that happens to be funny) :: 5.00 USD 9pm : The Human Zoo :: 5.00 (USD) 10pm : Croquet is Okay : The Picaresque Tale of Villainy (a new play from Seatle playwright/professor/author/poet Larry Coffin that is guaranteed to push holes into your brain while tickling your stomach with laughter.) :: 15.00 USD. SATURDAY 2pm : Confessions of a PT&A with Carole Montgomery (as seen on VH-1, Comedy Central, Showtime...) : original one-woman show that destroys the artificial stricture of conservative thinking in modern times. This is a special encore presentation. :: 10.00 (USD) Call 736-4313 or visit www.godsexandbowling.com.

TRIFECTA GALLERY (in Arts Factory): Marty Walsh, Steven Spann and Jennifer Main present "New Work." Plus. Walsh is planning a Helldorado surprise- you'll have to wait and see! First Friday reception 6-10 pm. 384 3860. www.martywalshgallery.com and www.stevenspann.com

ZOLLAR GALLERY (in Arts Factory): Open gallery www.laurazollar.com

S2ART: May 6 First Friday will exhibit the atelier’s Art of the Movies limited edition lithograph collection (featuring The American Film Institute’s “ 100 Years – 100 American Movie Poster Classics”) from 7-9pm at One East Charleston Boulevard, in the heart of the Las Vegas Arts District. The antique lithography presses in the atelier will demonstrate old-world printing techniques throughout the evening. www.s2art.com

HOLSUM LOFTS--NEWEST FIRST FRIDAY LOCATION WILL BE OPEN WITH SHUTTLE SERVICE EVERY 20 MINUTES. www.holsumlofts.com

ART NEARBY:

NEVADA ARTS COUNCIL: Open gallery. www.NevadaCulture.org

REED WHIPPLE CULTURAL CENTER: Open until 9 pm on First Friday

SHOPPING-MAIN AND CHARLESTON

DURETTE STUDIO: "The Art of Decorative Hardware" is happening at Durette Studio. Come in to see Las Vegas' premier selection of European Door and Cabinet Hardware, Lighting and Accessories. Our inventory selection truly is "Jewelry" for your home. As always, our very own jazz trio, Studio Jazz will be performing. Light refreshments. 5 to 9 PM.

MODIFY: Vintage Modern furnishings. Open late.

OPPORTUNITY VILLAGE THRIFT SHOP: Come and check out our new look! Open until 10 p.m. 50% off selected merchandise. Come shop and save and check out some of our wild and funky items.

THE ATTIC: 20 % off sale. Open till 8pm

SHOPPING-COLORADO AND CASINO CENTER:

GYPSY CARAVAN ANTIQUES: Don's miss the surf band Vista Four playing out front!! 10% discount for First Friday patrons.

YANA'S JUNK: Refreshments; 10% for First Friday patrons.

ATOMIC CITY TATTOO : Come down for live music, Djs and BBQ. For more information please visit www.atomiccitytattoo.com.

RED ROOSTER: 10% off merchandise for First Friday patrons. Open late.

NOT JUST ANTIQUES: A new store located at 1422 Western Avenue (between Charleston & Oakey) Vintage Shops & Art. Offering 10% off store-wide. Refreshments will be served. Open late and lots of parking. www.notjustantiquesmart.com

D'LOE HOUSE OF STYLE: Vintage clothing and accessories. Refreshments. Open late.

IOWA CAFE: Live music, drink specials and plenty of FREE parking. Open late.

AFTER PARTIES:

DINO'S LOUNGE: From 10:30 to 1 a.m. check out the sounds of The Clydesdale followed by Karaoke with host Danny G. Don't miss the NINES at NINE pm Sunday May 8!!! Check website for future dates. www.dinoslv.com

THE ICE HOUSE: "The Get Back" funky soul dance party with deejays John Doe, Danny Boy, Dirtycrum, Standing 8, Pizzo, Aurajin and Ryan Pardey. 10pm until the wee hours. $5 for girls, $10 for guys. Drink specials all night, free easy parking, and a great vibe guaranteed. Besides, where else can you cut loose on a dance floor to an old dusty funk 45 and be joined by a few hundred other funky soul freaks? Only at Las Vegas' only Funky Soul Dance Party: "The Get Back!"

VegasArtists.com: Now located in the Aruba on the strip. Visit http://www.vegasartists.com for more details.

Fremont Street--Lightscapes program "Aria" presented for First Friday, May 6, 2005, 10:00 p.m. at the Fremont Street Experience. The Las Vegas Arts Commission's Lightscapes and the Fremont Street Experience present Jennifer Steinkamp's "Aria" on Viva Vision, the famous Fremont Street Experience Light and Sound show presented on a high-tech overhead canopy that extends the length of more than five football fields. The show begins 10:00 P.M. Friday, May 6, 2005, as part of the Centennial First Friday extravaganza. Come and experience world class video art on the biggest video screen in the world with over 12.5 million synchronized LED modules offering crisp, high-resolution images and astounding special affects – all synched to a lively soundtrack fed through a state-of-the-art, 550,000-watt, concert-quality sound system.

Also, TINOCO'S BISTRO (www.tinocosbistro.net ), CHICAGO JOE'S, CASA DON JUAN & FLORIDA CAFE (www.cuban-food-usa.com/vegas_florida.html ) all have food & drink specials throughout the evening!

To be added to our email list contact:

info@firstfriday-lasvegas.org

What started out as the first meeting of the Las Vegas Modern Committee (LV ModCom) in a Henderson Barnes and Noble ended with drinks, cigarettes, swing dancers, and a tour of the Aruba Hotel & Spa (formerly the Thunderbird Hotel) on the Vegas Strip.

Last week, the Friday night meeting went well, with new people trying to feel out their common interest. Lawyers, city employees, writers, and other like-minded folks were there. Hosts for the evening were group founders Jonathon Foerstal and Mary-Margaret Stratton, both who post on Lotta Living.

After the meeting ended, a lot of the group met up at the Aruba. There was a swing dancing night which made for a nice background and an added bonus was getting an impromptu tour of the place by the manager of the hotel. Very nice guy, loads of stories. In addition to LV Mod attendees, Jarret Keene and Joshua Ellis were on hand. Articles on the meeting should be appearing in Las Vegas Life and Las Vegas City Life.

Additional Links:

Las Vegas SUN: Playing the Mods: Mid-century modernism reflected in LV homes
Beauty Bar, new retro-themed bar, opening in May

Wynn Las Vegas opened to a packed house, with people reportedly waiting up to three hours to enter the new mega-casino. However, the art gallery has yet to open, which may explain why there is no link for it on the resort's site.

In contrast to the spectacle of the new, Vegas' newest museum will be opening its doors on May 6th. The old post office now new "Post Modern" will be hosting its first exhibition. Here's the press release for your enjoyment...

VEGAS VIP:
(Vegas Viewed in Postcards)
The Story of Downtown
A Curated Exhibition by Brian Paco Alvarez at the Historic 1933 Downtown Las Vegas Post Office and Federal Court House in Celebration of the Las Vegas Centennial

City of Las Vegas Cultural Affairs Division
749 Veterans Memorial Drive
Las Vegas, Nevada 89101
(702) 229-6130
bpalvarez@lasvegasnevada.gov

On Friday, May 6, as part of the First Friday events, the city will host a reception from 5 to 7 p.m. for “Vegas VIP (Vegas Viewed in Postcards),” an exhibition of vintage postcards, historic photographs and artifacts that will remain on display through May.

Exhibition Background

Las Vegas was founded in 1905 during the golden age of postcards, an era full of optimism and innovation that was marked by the industrial revolution and the last vestiges of the gold rush in Nevada. This exhibition traces the history of Las Vegas through the images that were made into postcards and sent all over the world.

The collection consists of vintage postcards, historic photographs and artifacts from local individuals and institutions. Postcards from the famed Robert Stoldal Collection and items such as blast goggles from the Atomic Testing Museum, signage letters from the Neon Museum and antiques from the Barrick Museum at UNLV will also be on display.

The exhibition will be housed on the second floor of the historic 1933 Post Office and Federal Court House in Downtown Las Vegas. The exhibition spaces have been divided into eras that are significant in the development of Las Vegas and the history of postcards.

For more information please contact Brian Paco Alvarez, Curator (702) 229-6130

There will be future articles about local Vegas happenings, including a report on the rather enjoyable first meeting of the Las Vegas Modern Committee.

Until then, you can read the just published New York Times article on the Liberace Museum.

Vegas is known for its architecture, but with its tendency to destroy buildings more than a week old, historic preservation is not the city's biggest priority. On the national stage it has a charismatic reputation, but Vegas is no Palm Springs or LA. Without the Vegas Strip and its signature casino glam and glitz, Vegas does not compare to many cities large and small when it comes to neighborhoods of distinctive architecture. Most of the city's early residential buildings never were much more than functional homes, and the signature styles of the 30s, 40s and 50s never took firm root in Vegas on the scale that they did in other cities.

In an attempt to bring attention and recognition to the modern architecture that the city does have, the Las Vegas Modern Committee will be having its first get together. Who is it for? . . .

"For Afficionados of
Classic Las Vegas Landmarks, Things To Do and See,
Mid-Century Modern Architecture, Rat Pack History,
New and Historic Neon Signs, and Vintage Vacation Kitsch"

The group was started by Paliau, a Henderson-based attorney, ". . . interested in pop culture from the 30s to the 60s including modernism, tiki culture, googie architecture, lounge music (Esquivel, Martin Denny, Arthur Lyman)." His goal, to give the worthwhile example of Vegas Mod its due. The inaugural event will be on April 22 at 7:00 PM at this Barnes & Noble in Henderson. Discussions will revolve around Vegas architecture, the books "Book of Tiki" and "Tiki Road Trip" and Vegas documentary producer Lynn Zook will talk about her movies, The Story of Classic Las Vegas and "The Women Who Built Las Vegas: a four part series. Check out the movie's trailer for a sneek peak at these great documentaries.


Locally public radio has touched upon residential areas of note. KNPR's State of Nevada dedicated the October 22, 2004 show to historic neighborhoods. The station's archived shows are now available in downloadable form (mp3) so those with the bandwidth can grab a show and listen whenever they care to.

But Las Vegas Modern Committee is not the only group in Vegas or Nevada with preservation in mind. Preserve Nevada and Las Vegas Historic Preservation Commission make continuing efforts in the uphill battle to save and salvage city and state landmarks.

Thanks to the Daily Show, it has been brought to this website's attention that Newt Gingrich will be speaking at the Silverton Hotel and Casino.

The former Speaker of the House will be at the Hideaway Theater on April 14th, before Twisted Sister and after John Kay and Steppenwolf. If you feel like posing some questions to Newt, PBS's Frontline website The Long March of Newt Gingrich is a good starting point. Visit the Chronology Page for great tidbits, such as:

June 19, 1962 - Newt marries Jackie Battley (the geometry teacher he met attending high school).

1966-1970 - At Tulane, he indulges in mild counter-culture behavior, including a protest against the administration for banning "obscene" photos in the school paper. He becomes a fan of Alvin and Heidi Toffler and experiments with marijuana. Gets draft deferment because of school and children (flat feet and near-sightedness also probably would have kept him out).

August 1981 - Newt marries Marianne Ginther, a personnel clerk with the Secret Service.

Unfortunately, the chronology ends at 1998. Otherwise it might have covered his 1999 affair with Callista Bisek, a 33-year-old Congressional aide. Typifying the conservative ideology of fidelity and family (he was a major proponent of Bill Clinton's impeachment), he announced to his second wife his intention to divorce her while she was celebrating her mother's 84th birthday in July.

So, when you see Newt, give him a wink and a nod. Because he's in Vegas and he likes the ladies.

Right now, there is no official "Steve Wynn's List of Art Only Steve Wynn Could Afford" website. So with that in mind, the following is an attempt to see what Mr. Wynn has owned in the past, and what may be on display when Wynn Las Vegas is planned to open in April 2005.

Sometimes Google searches are intensive, like panning for gold. Occasionally that effort is rewarded with a chunk of gold or two. Such is this nice nugget. The Art Rental and Licensing Agreement - Stephen A. Wynn and Wynn Resorts LLC comes courtesy of legal website FindLaw. This 2001 document offers a listing of artworks that were lent from Steve Wynn to Wynn Resorts. Isn't that like loaning to yourself? Stop questioning the needs of the super-rich and eat your ramen noodles.

The Wynn Collection as it was: (note the work by Andrew Warhol)

Paul Cezanne
Curtain, Jug and Fruit Bowl
(Rideau, Cruchon et Compotier)
c. 1893-94
Oil on canvas
23 1/2 * 28 3/4 inches

Paul Gauguin
The Bathers
(Promenade au bord de la mer)
(Famille Tahitlenne)
1902
Oil on canvas
36 1/4 * 28 3/4 in. (92 cm. * 73 cm.)

Edouard Manet
Portrait of Mademoiselle Suzette Lemaire, In Profile (Portrait de Mademoiselle Suzette Lemaire, de profil)
1880
Pastel on paper
21 3/8 * 17 3/4 in. (54.3 * 45.1 cm.)

Henri Matisse
La Robe Persane
1940
Oil on canvas
32 * 25 5/8 in. (81 * 65 cm.)

Henri Matisse
Pineapple and Anemones
1940
Oil on canvas
28 3/4 * 361/4 in. (73 * 92 cm.)

Amedeo Modigliani
Nu Couche (sur le cote gauche)
1917
Oil on canvas
35 * 57 in. (88.9 * 144.8 cm)

Pablo Picasso
La Reve
1932
Oil on canvas
51 1/8 * 38 1/8 in. (129.8 * 97.2 cm)

Vincent van Gogh
Peasant Woman against a Background of Wheat
Portrait of a Peasant Girl in a Straw Hat
June 1890
Oil on canvas
36 1/4 * 28 3/4 in. (92 * 73 cm.)

Andrew Warhol
Steve Wynn (three consisting of gold, white, red)
1983
Synthetic polymer paint, silkscreen ink
and diamond dust on canvas

Claude Monet
Camille a l'Ombrelle Verte
1876
Oil on Canvas
31 7/8 * 23 5/8 in.

Strangely enough, another list appeared in an August 6, 2004 SEC filing, which included an "Amended and Restated Art Rental and Licensing Agreement". This third version of this arrangement, according to Yahoo! Finance, was entered into on November 7, 2002. But Amedeo Modigliani's "Nu Couche (Sur la Cote Gauche)" was sold by Wynn at Christie's on November 4, 2003 for $26,887,500. Why is it still on the list? Ask the lawyers.

Most of these works were on display at the Wynn Collection gallery, in the old Desert Inn. The Art Gallery was mentioned in March of 2004, when Wynn Resort filed a Form 10-K (definition). This document (downloadable PDF or online version) talks of the financial benefits of displaying very expensive pieces of artwork.

"Offsetting the decrease in aircraft revenues are increases in revenues from the art gallery and the retail shop of approximately $38,000 and $75,000, respectively, due to increased patronage."

This Annual Report 2003 (filed in 2004) details the yearly income of the gallery.

"Revenues:

Art gallery

2001 - $35,000
2002 - $279,000
2003 - $317,000

Period from April 21, 2000 (Inception) to Year Ended December 31, 2003 - $631,000."

After the closing of the gallery and the demolition of the remaining D.I. buildings, the collection had no home, which is why it is up at the Nevada Museum of Art in Reno. The exhibition of the Wynn Collection, which was originally slated to run until March 30th, has been extended until April 10th. The Reno Gazette's Masterpiece Milestone reports on this exhibition and offers this list of works as ones on display.

* Pablo Picasso's "La Reve," 1932.

* Vincent van Gogh's "Peasant Woman Against a Background of Wheat," 1890.

* Pierre-Auguste Renoir's " Among the Roses” (Madame Leon Clapisson)," 1882.

* Claude Monet's "Camille a l'Ombrelle Verte," 1876.

* Henri Matisse"s "La Robe Persane "The Persian Robe," 1940.

* Paul Gauguin's "The Bathers," 1902.

* Rembrandt van Rijn's "Self Portrait with Shaded Eyes," 1634.

* John Singer Sargent's "Robert Louis Stevenson and His Wife," 1885.

* Pablo Picasso's "Nature morte aux tulips,," 1932.

* Pablo Picasso's "Hommeau chapeau," 1965.

* Andy Warhol's portrait of Steve Wynn in red, white and gold, 1983.

* Jan Brueghel the Elder's "untitled landscape," 1594.

* Camille Pissarro's "Hermitage Garden, Maison Rouge," 1877.

* Jean-Michel Basquiat's "Napoleonic Stereotype circa '44," 1983.

While all the legal papers are great fun, let's get to the most bizarre nugget of gold. Way back when, a lot of this art was on display at Wynn's crown jewel, The Bellagio Hotel & Casino. They were part of the prestige of the Bellagio and had a specialized gallery for their exhibition. The Bellagio's website at the time had a page dedicated to the gallery and listed the works available for viewing. So you would think that since it's been years since that was the arrangement, the site would be taken offline, never to be seen again. Well, you are wrong and you should give thanks to the "ANTI-CAPITALIST OPERATING SYSTEM (ACOS) v2.0." For whatever reason, online anarchists have preserved a satirical version of the Bellagio Art Gallery in the Bellagio Casino website. . .

"By clicking on the link below to enter the Bellagio Art Gallery, I signify my understanding that what I am about to see is a satire of the web site of the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art in the Bellagio Casino, Las Vegas. I also signify my understanding that this satire of the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art contains sexual content that may be offensive to some viewers.

ENTER THE BELLAGIO ART GALLERY

MORE INFORMATION ON THIS SATIRE"

So, there you go! When it opens, the hotel will be awe-inspiring, the gallery glorious, and the art will look great.

London-based artist Banksy has struck again. Surreptitiously installing pictures in the Brooklyn Museum, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the American Museum of Natural History, he literally wore a beard, mustache and long coat to hide the smuggled artwork.

The Wooster Collective has pictures of the works put on display and their installations, a virtual how-to on placing artwork in museums that wouldn't otherwise show your work.

This isn't the first time he's snuck a piece on display.

"It is a monument dedicated to thugs, to thieves, to bullies, to liars, to the corrupt, the arrogant and the stupid."
Image from Art of the State (Banksy Sculpture, London)

An even more ambitious and expensive stunt (BBC article) was placed in the courtyard of Clerkenwell Green, England. Jon Stewart on the Daily Show once called the Statue of Liberty a SILF (Statue I'd Like to Fuck). But Banksy has done one better, with Justice looking hot in garters and stockings. Local attorney and poet Dayvid Figler should own this, and The Las Vegas Community Artists Group should be seeing about getting Banksy and his friends to come to our fair town.

From Figler Media and Consulting (figlermedia@earthlink.net) comes news of a literate lesbian invasion at The Artisan Hotel!!!

"Two book tours converge into one in Las Vegas on
Monday, March 21st, 2005, at 7 PM at the fabulous
Artisan Hotel.   The Contemporary Arts Collective, in
conjunction with Dayvid Figler, present Michelle Tea &
Laurenn McCubbin supporting their new collaboration, Rent Girl, and Ali Liebegott and her newest work, The Beautifully Worthless.  (Michelle Tea will be instantly recognizable to those who saw the old Sister Spit shows at the Double Down as the host of that raucous event). Opening the program with an acoustic set will be Paige (lead singer of The Clydesdale). The Artisan Hotel is located near the intersection of I-15 and Sahara Avenue on the east side.

MICHELLE TEA & LAURENN MCCUBBIN do show 'n' tell from their collaborative publishing project, RENT GIRL (Last Gasp). Hear Michelle read true tales of one broke-ass baby dyke down the rabbit-hole of the sex industry! See slides of Laurenn's illustrations--bored, chain-smoking lezzie hookers! emotionally unavailable, Amazonian love-objects! drug-dealing teenaged bulldaggers! weird, germaphobic tricks! You will guffaw heartily, and also indulge in a voyeuristic pleasure you may later be ashamed of. It's okay.

PLUS!

ALI LIEBEGOTT reads from her epic road poem, THE
BEAUTIFULLY WORTHLESS (Suspect Thoughts Press), wherein a melancholy queer girl throws her dalmatian in the pickup and hits the road, in search of a mythical American town that has banished sadness. The odometer clicks, the poetry
spins, the letters get sent home to an abandoned girlfriend, beers are drunk in seedy roadside hotels, terrified naps are stolen at rest stops, bat-infested caves are explored and the fifteen-year-old boy running the cave gets stalked by our hero. Some will crack a rib from laughter; others will weep from the pure elegance of Ali's verse. Those with a wide emotional range may do both.

Excerpts of The Beautifully Worthless - Ali Liebegott - Lodestar Quarterly

Please come and see our show. Books will be for sale, and a swell time had by all."

When Zenarchery.com got "Best Vegas Website" by Las Vegas Life, I was a little bummed. But based on the rest of the magazine's other "best" selections, the word "research" deserves to be put in quotes, and being neglected lost its sting.

Josh Ellis's site is full of news of Josh Ellis and little about Vegas. Based on the one time talking to Mr. Ellis, it reflects poorly on him, and didn't resemble the guy I had a drink with at the Golden Palm so very long ago. The conversation revolved around many things, but his Texan grandfather's dealings with the Bin Laden family during the oil boom was fascinating. It also makes me 5 degrees removed from Osama. Small world.

Some of the latest missives from his site have him lamenting about his birthday, his unrecognized genius, and living in "Retard City." When he signs off on a post with, "Somebody, please, drop the bomb. Quit wasting my time," I sigh and think, "Stop wasting your time, smart guy."

If you want to put an end to it, all the info needed to assemble a bomb has been publicly available for years. Announce the means and location of your going-away party to the press so it can be recorded for posterity. Get a 1959 Caddy convertible, "two bags of grass, seventy-five pellets of mescaline, five sheets of high-powered blotter acid, a salt shaker half-full of cocaine," drive your ass to the middle of the desert and turn yourself into a sun. Your atomic suicide would be eternally replayed on the news, Hunter would be proud, and the name of Joshua Ellis (Dr, RIP) would be on everyone's lips.

Until then, this would be my unsolicited advice on making your life a better one...

Stop bitching about the "general populace." Cumulatively, the "general populace" sucks. The founding fathers knew that when they created the electoral college and it's the same reason that some people feel the need for gated communities. (I'm talking to you Summerlin and Henderson! You're not that special.) Most people don't care about you, so stop looking at them for affirmation. Want a solution, I'll get to it.

Stop with the drugs (for the most part). Mild, recreational drug use is good for the occasional epiphany; anything else is just accumulating damage that can't be afforded. It's a small town and people talk, and that's how they talk about you.

Pissed about missing SXSW? What about a Vegas-based Mperia fest? Every good music fest was once small, so don't let that stop you. And don't whine about no venues. Famous John's, Dino's, and the Icehouse Lounge. That's just three in Downtown.

Want to address those who should be listening? Get a list of your best ideas/concepts (not complaints, know the difference). Host a salon, invite artists, articulate individuals, local color. As the host, spend ten minutes being smart, funny, and informative about your topic and the rest of the night getting the machine of discourse running on social lubrication. Don't tell me you can't attempt that kind of party.

Why an article dedicated to one man in Vegas?. Public whining gets a public response. That's all.

The next article is going to be so full of info on art, a casino, and its wealthy owner that your head will hurt. Promise.

The City's Department of Leisure Services has announced the first show for the "Post Modern", the reclaimed historic post office near city hall.
So, here it goes. . .

Department of Leisure Services
The Cultural Division cordially invites you to attend several First Friday events on May, 6, 2005.

Starting off the evening will be the Post Modern reception for the VEGAS VIP (Vegas Viewed in Post Cards) exhibit from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the former downtown Post Office on 301 Stewart. Self guided tours will begin at 5:30 through 9:00 pm. Gallery Volunteers will be on-site to help with questions.

The second event occurring at the Post Modern will be performances by award winning Collage Dance Theatre ensemble, a site-specific performance dance company that serves up visions of the past with more than a pinch of surrealism. Performances are at 7:00 pm, 7:45 pm, 8:30 pm, and at 9:15 pm. For more information regarding the Collage Dance Theatre please go to their web site at: Collage Dance Theatre.

Two special Post Modern Express buses will be transporting guests to and from the Post Modern Exhibit and Collage performances and the First Friday Arts District activities every 15 minutes. Paid parking is also available at the Stewart Parking structure on 4th and Stewart entrance (north bound traffic) and on Las Vegas Boulevard South and Stewart (south bound traffic).

In addition to the Post Modern VEGAS VIP and the Collage Dance Theatre, the May First Friday activities will be celebrating a Centennial First Friday: "100 Years 100 Artists. First Friday will host participating fine artists on First Friday from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm and on Saturday, May 7 from 10 am to 5:00 pm. Artists will be demonstrating and selling their work on Antique Row near the Funkhouse on Colorado and Casino Center and on Boulder in front of the Arts Factory. Entertainment stages will be at both locations along with food and drink vendors. For information regarding artists please go to the City's Cultural web site at: artslasvegas.org | City of Las Vegas Cultural Events or call: 229-2496.

Off-site parking will be available at the Government Center on 500 Grand Central Parkway. Trolley service will be available to transport to the festival and back on Friday and Saturday. For more information regarding First Friday please go to the official First Friday web site at: First Friday.

"It was wet, cold, and fucking miserable."

Well, then. That pretty much guarantees Third Thursday won't be worse.

The coolest museum in Las Vegas is not about Liberace, or Elvis, or even the city itself. It is about the splitting of atomic nuclei for military and scientific purposes. Sounds dry? Atomic Testing Museum's 8,000 square foot gallery is a visual explosion, full of pop culture paraphernalia, left-over testing equipment, and innovative computer kiosks. Some of the video presentations include parts of Duck and Cover and A is for Atom (which are amongst the many atomic movies available for free download at the Internet Archive). When you have defense contractors as your benefactors, you can throw lots of money at a museum, and this museum looks like a million bucks. The Las Vegas City Life has a moderately informative review of the museum by yours truly.

The article doesn't do the museum justice in describing the visual impact of the place, so fortunately for you, here is the Atomic Testing Museum's Photos Page.

Bonus Related Links!;
Atomic Heritage Foundation Home Page
National Atomic Museum (Albuquerque, New Mexico)
CONELRAD: All Things Atomic | The Golden Age of Homeland Security

So I'm reading Sin City Sounds and one of the bands listed to play is The Spores with Molly McGuire. Being a former New Orleans resident, I got to see a two-piece that she used to front named Rhudabega. The band was great and she was a phenomenal performer, throwing down on her bass guitar.

Your Local Scene has an interview with her, and the band website has songs available here. The Spores at the Double Down and the Voodoo Organist at the Aristocrat both coincide with a vacation, so I get to miss both of those bands.

Speaking of vacation, I'm going on one. Which means one or two more articles before Saturday and new ones on my return. I know I've been slack on writing lately, which is sad because I went to the first day of the Dam Short Film Fest, and got a press tour of the Atomic Testing Museum, both of which were great.

So, I resolve to write more about the goings-on in our fair town! . . . After I get back.

Want to know about the latest Downtown art developments? The March issue of Las Vegas Life has a great article about Cindy Funkhouser (FunkHouse, Whirlygig Inc.), Naomi Arin (Dust Gallery) and Julie Brewer (also Whirlygig Inc.). Their latest venture is gallery/artist rental spaces at 1551 S. Commerce St. The article details the plans for the new property, as well as an additional arts property. It's a bit unfortunate that these new projects are so far away from The Arts Factory and galleries that make up the core of the arts district. While this dilutes the concentration of arts-related businesses in that area, the addition of these new projects can only be a benefit to the local arts scene.

Bonus link: Click here to see what the new building looks like from the sky.

More on the post office/museum courtesy of the city's website. Some of the employees at the museum have taken to calling it the "Post Modern".

As part of the city’s upcoming Centennial, the city is looking for volunteers to serve as museum guides for the historic downtown post office. The city is now accepting applications for volunteers interested in giving tours of the building during the months of May, June and July. Architects, historians, artists, graduate students, educational professionals as well as experienced museum guides and those with a passion for local history are encouraged to apply. Successful applicants will attend weekly classes and training sessions during March and April including lectures by local historians and preservation experts.

Applications are due by February 28. Those interested in becoming part of the U.S. Post Office and Courthouse Post Modern docent team and would like to receive an application form, can contact Kim Jones at the city of Las Vegas at 229-4739.

These museum tours are one of the many civic and public events scheduled for the building during the Centennial celebration.

The city recently marked the closure of the post office with a ceremony to recognize the longtime employees and box holders. Last year, the City Council approved a plan to turn the historic building into a cultural center complete with exhibition space and programming focusing on the city’s colorful and complex social, political and aesthetic history.

The National Register-nominated facility, located just west of City Hall, is touted by experts as the most refined and best preserved of the city’s Depression-era architecture and is considered a regionally important example of neoclassical public architecture. Much of the interior has retained original features and decorative ornament. Improvements to preserve the structure are planned and will conform to federal standards for the treatment of historic properties.

The city contracted with Chattel Architecture, Planning and Preservation, Inc. to conduct a study on the most appropriate reuse of the building. As part of the study, the consultants interviewed more than 140 people from throughout the community   involved in government, arts, history, tourism and related fields.

This January was the 2 year anniversary of the closing of the Guggenheim Las Vegas. Managing Director of the Guggenheim Hermitage Museum Elizabeth Herridge spoke of the now-gone museum and mission of the existing one on KNPR's State of Nevada and her interview can be heard here (RealAudio).

For your enjoyment, here are some pictures of a museum that no longer exists.

Guggenheim Las Vegas

Lights, Camera, Boulder City!? This weekend has Boulder City hosting the Dam Short Film Festival.

"The Dam Short Film Festival will be held February 4-6, 2005, in Boulder City, Nevada, and will feature 100 short films of varied style, subject, and origin.
Program blocks will include Live-Action, Documentary, Animation, and Youth/Family. In addition, there will be a special Programmers' Picks, "Best of Ai" Showcase (The Art Institutes) , and Animation Trip Retrospective.

Boulder City - home of the Hoover Dam - is 30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. Screenings will be held in the historic American Legion Hall with additional events at the auditorium of the City Water & Power Building, both located downtown."

A preview of select films was held at the Jan 7th Spaced Invaders First Friday after party, including "Perils in Nude Modeling" and Day Off The Dead.

While it's great that this film fest is available to us desert dwellers, it seems to be asking the artily-inclined to choose between the First Friday offerings in Vegas and the first day of films in Boulder City, both on the 4th. But really, is it so bad to have too much of a good thing? Ponder that and know that ticket prices, film schedule and list of events are all to be found on the site.

Also The Silver State and The Big Friendly Corp. will be playing at Mateo's on the 4th as well.

The deadline to sign up for the City of 100 Murals Las Vegas Centennial project is Feb. 1, 2005. Artists don't have to have any project ideas or sites identified at this time. But they should submit an application if they would like to be considered a candidate.

The contact is: Markus Tracy (702) 229-4613 or mtracy@lasvegasnevada.gov. He is the director of the project and can answer any questions anyone may have.

A week ago, I had the pleasure of seeing the first 3rd Thursday presentation, which was a collector's forum. It was a regular who's-who of local arts people, including writer Kelle Schillaci who posted her review of the night's speakers and the Rauschenberg exhibition in CityLife, The Art of Art Collecting. It was a good night with a lot of promise. So here's my report, complete with strange bits of text that the 'blogger' website insists on adding.

If a year ago a betting person had said that affluent Vegas collectors would be speaking to a standing room-only crowd in a large for-profit gallery full of Robert Rauschenberg paintings on Main Street, most would have said that the odds were against them. But the first monthly 3rd Thursday forum, organized by Godt-Cleary and Dust Gallery, continues to demonstrate the Arts District’s evolution. Unlike 1st Friday, which is an arts district-wide event, this evening was solely the production of the two galleries. Setting the high-societal tone was the Bentley Continental GT parked on the street, the Godt-Cleary doorman checking RSVPs, and the Collector's Guide to Working with Art Dealers on every seat in the gallery.

The estimated 100 attendees were a mix that included local intelligentsia, artists, art lovers, representatives of the Guggenheim Hermitage Museum, The Las Vegas Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Collective Las Vegas, and at least one liberal agitator (more on him later). The forum itself was heavy with casino execs, in part because scheduled speakers Lee Cagley (landscape architect) and Steven Molasky (realty and mortgage) were unable to attend.

The speakers were Executive V. P. of Design for Wynn Design and Development Roger Thomas, Mandalay Resort Group President and CFO Glenn Schaeffer, MGM-Mirage President and CFO Jim Murren, Patrick Duffy of Rhodes Homes, and Wally Goodman, who is just fabulously well off.

After Naomi Arin of Dust Gallery introduced the panelists, the session started with Roger Thomas. As a life-long resident of Vegas, he first touched upon the fact that Vegas had never been a city to collect in, and saw “collecting as an excuse for traveling.” He was also the first of several of the collectors to talk of the phases of collecting that he went through, with his latest collection being the result of a previous purge of most of his prior acquisitions. Also, he touched upon an immediate attraction to a piece followed by his educating himself on context, history, and exploration of that work’s style or aesthetic.

Glenn Schaeffer spoke next and noted that Godt-Cleary “was doing much better in a Downtown location.” It’s true that it would have been hard to imagine the night’s event and the same crowd attending at the former Mandalay Bay location. He touched upon the art market as one marked with inefficiencies that benefited the dedicated collector/investor.

Continuing the theme of art as investment, Jim Murren spoke of his purchases with an eye towards investment as well as personal appreciation. He added to his collecting remarks by detailing his arts background before entering into business, of being a painter and an art history major while attending college.

Patrick Duffy (not of Dallas fame) and Walter Goodman ended the introductions. Patrick detailed his life prior to meeting Walter, and noted his lack of exposure to art with a story of a 1991 visit of theirs to the Frick in NYC as his first time in a museum. But he nurtured his late blooming appreciation for art, saying, “collecting to me is so very much a part of every breath I take.” Acquiring works turned into an appreciation for those gallery staff that help aid in collecting, adding that these gallerists were critical in finding works that weren’t just liked, but loved. “Acquire through a gallerist, an auction house; if you attempt to do the art of the deal, you’ve missed the point.”

Walter Goodman was the last to speak and would have been served best by a microphone. His engaging and humorous anecdotes made up for his lack of volume. He spoke of his passion for collection (which he has been doing since age 14) and was adamant about collecting for love, not investment. His observation that when buying for name only, “all that means is that you have a Reubens – well, screw that!” was a crowd favorite.

At the end, Michele Quinn directed the conversations between the individual collectors. It looked as though the crowd would have liked to have participated more, but a tangential tone was set almost immediately by an audience participant. A gent with an axe to grind with the casino execs brought up his unhappiness with their lack of architectural preservation, which had nothing to do with the entire night’s presentation. Michele then redirected the conversation on-topic until its end.

The promise of nights like this is that affluent, passionate collectors will build the local arts community and aid in its success. That was a common thread with Wally Goodman and Patrick Duffy, who commented on their belief that collecting needs to engage with local artists and galleries. The evening’s event was an encouraging one that shows that there are locals who have not only the interest to support the Vegas arts community, but the means and desire to get results.