Ed Montini muses on why he believes Phoenix deserves better than Brand “X.”
Is Downtown Phoenix going through an identity crisis – or just growing up? We here at The Journal would love to hear your thoughts.
Simply titled, “3,” this year during Artlink’s Art Detour Jordre Studio will be hosting a show of three diverse artists, Jennie Ignaszewski, Tyson Crosbie and Kyle Jordre (owner of Jordre Studio). The opening reception is being held on March 6, 2009 during First Friday, 6PM-10PM. The studio will also be open during regular Detour hours, Saturday, March 7, 10AM – 6PM; Sunday, March 8, noon – 6PM.
The Mutant Pinata Show will take place again this year at 1301 Grand Avenue, at the historic Bragg’s Pie Factory, and will be open for the March First Friday (March 6th from 6 – 12 PM); Art Detour Weekend (March 7th and 8th); as well as the March Third Friday (March 20th) and the April First and Third Fridays (April 3 and 17).
You can check out this quality outlet for all things vintage during normal operating hours on Wednesday thru Sunday or you can stop by on First Fridays, when the Hollywood Regency and it’s neighbors in the Wagon Wheel Building at 7th Ave & Montecito, turn host to belly dancers, flame throwers and a drum circle. I’m told the activities go on until Midnight sometimes.
The 8th Annual Melrose on 7th Ave Street Fair is upon us. Happening this coming Saturday, March 7th, the streets on 7th Ave will be blocked off from Indian School Rd to Campbell and you and your loved ones will be able to stroll freely up and down 7th Ave, checking out all the arts & crafts vendors, the very popular Vintage Car Show, featuring as many as 150 cars and trucks and pop in all of the store front businesses lining both sides of 7th Ave.
Groove to the jazzy sounds of the swing era as the greatest hits of Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, and Duke Ellington are performed by our really BIG big band. “Bandleader” Lawrence Golan leads this evening of standards that promises to be a swingin’ night on the town!
Downtown Phoenix during First Fridays can be a little overwhelming, with hordes of people trying to get their monthly art fix in the span of four hours. So for people who want to enjoy their art and culture in a slightly more relaxed setting, there is Art Detour. The once-a-year, all-weekend event lets visitors take a self-guided tour through the art galleries and studios in central Phoenix.
Every weekend during the month of March, arts events will be hosted in downtown Phoenix and surrounding neighborhoods, along with events, exhibitions, and performances on other days throughout the month. In recognition of the local arts community and these public festivals, Mayor Phil Gordon has proclaimed March as “Phoenix Arts Month” and invites everyone to attend and celebrate.
Following the lead of other major cities, Phoenix is looking to establish its own brand, the same promotional strategy that can launch a successful coffee chain or compact car. Las Vegas is known as an adult playground. Austin is known as a live-music destination. Phoenix hopes to similarly set itself apart.
“U2” is the first ever full-dome production featuring U2’s timeless classics and modern hits, set to lighting and animation effects using the latest is CGI and laser technology.