February is finally here, folks and the weather could not be more perfect for an evening of gallery hopping around the downtown Phoenix art districts. Here are some amazing shows worth checking out on your First Friday adventures. More information is always available on Artlink’s website.

Courtesy of Joe Holdren

Courtesy of Joe Holdren

FULL CIRCLE
Meet Joe Holdren, the new curator of the Icehouse Gallery, through the professors that influenced and guided his career as an artist. A fantastic way of understanding an artist is by peering at the people and things that impact them most. So take a moment to take a journey with Joe through a variety of styles that range from abstract to sculpture to post modernism and more. Doors are open from 6-10 p.m. and the location is 429 W. Jackson St. More info at theicehouseaz.com.

Reconstructed Perceptions
This is a title we can all relate to on one level or another. Focusing on portraiture of the human figure, student artist Katia Lifshin will premier her solo show that explores the juxtaposition of different people with different faces through oil paintings. Her aim is to challenge the viewer’s perception of others and essentially, themselves. Explore the uniqueness yourself from 6-10 p.m. at 9 the Gallery. More info at 9thegallery.com.

AZ/NM Connection 2017
Running strong since 2014, this group show highlights the between-state relationship of artists in Arizona and New Mexico. Featuring more than 50 artists, this event takes place over several days and has several installments, the first of which takes place on First Friday. Swing through and scope out the festivities with doors open from 6 p.m.-2 a.m., located at the Grand ArtHaus. More info here.

Tempo by Layne Farmer

Tempo by Layne Farmer

Materialize
The Herberger Theater will host an exhibit that features the work of 14 ASU Masters of Fine Art students as they explore a variety of imaginative concepts and techniques that will range in size, style and material. Come out to support your local art students as they burst into the art scene with a punch. Event is from 5:30-7 p.m. and located at the Herberger Theater. More info at herbergertheater.org.

Replicants
If you haven’t been to Cobra Arcade Bar, now is your chance. Cobra is proud to present the work of local artist Mykil Zep for his solo exhibition of contemporary pop art. Don’t be shy, swing through and see what everyone has been talking about. Show from 8 p.m.-2 a.m., located at 2nd St. and McKinley.