Design Philly Fest: Our Picks

Printing in the Open: Common Press
The Print Center
1614 Latimer St.
10/11, 6–8 p.m.

“Printing in the Open” will walk you through a wardrobe makeover. Substitute your favorite T–shirt, tote bag or collection of Fling tanks for some do–it–yourself artwork. This interactive event invites you to print unique designs on your choice of apparel. Did we mention it’s free?

Locals Only: Neon Signs Inspired by Your Favorite Dive
Masthead Print Studio
340 Brown St., 2nd floor
Through 10/12

Judging from your Facebook muploads, you’re relatively familiar with the inspiration for this exhibition — those classic neon signs that find their way into your drunken pictures from downtown. Well, Masthead Print Studio is paying homage to their special glow. Various local illustrators and artists offer viewers their take on the neon logo. Sober photo–op, anyone?

Free Happy Hour and Underdogs
Bluecadet
1101 N. Hancock St., Unit 101
10/11, 5–7 p.m.

Bluecadet, one of Philly’s largest interactive agencies, presents free drinks, free vegan hotdogs and of course, free art. Playing an active role in the city’s recently launched With Art campaign, this Northern Liberties locale offers interactive touch screens that exhibit its many contributions to the world of advertising. This is the company that designed world–renowned photographer Steve McCurry’s website (!!!). And not only are the hot dogs free, but the buns are gluten–free.

SEPTA Makeover
Spring Garden Station & Girard Station at Broad

Remember the good ol’ days of chalk advertisements on the stairs of the Quad? Well you ain’t seen nothin’ yet. Hop on the Broad Street Line and check out Margery Amdur’s 4,000–square foot ground painting at the Spring Garden subway station. While you’re at it, stop by a larger–than–life installation by Roger Woodward at the Girard station. And for the thoroughly confused, this is all part of a SEPTA art program that has addressed Philadelphian transitory spaces since 1998. Major culture points, SEPTA.

Jewelry Trunk Show, Cocktails and Conversation
Scarlett Alley
241 Race St.
10/12, 4:30–8 p.m.

Check out Brooklyn–based designer Nora Kogan’s trunk show to snag some swanky accessories. With elaborate pieces mimicking scorpions, tigers, matchsticks and a Man Ray aesthetic, this merch is certainly worth the trip. Added bonus? You get a chance to chat with the designer as you shop. Maybe you’ll finally figure out how to work that brooch your grandma gave you last Christmas…