Listen up. These opening exhibits won't just help you cross a quirky gift or two off your Christmas list, they'll also open your ears to an assortment of live Philly jams. Head to Old City, get down with some jazz and match a face to these outrageous DJ names.
Reward 55 N. 2nd St. 6–9 p.m. Old City boutique, Reward, will offer an eclectic fusion of fashion and design for its First Friday event. Featured artists Lizzy Janssen and Elizabeth Garvey, both associated with Philly–born brand Free People, will showcase their colorful paintings and illustrations, while DJ Fish n’ Chips (no joke) keeps the energy high. Janssen’s work frequently plays with collage and mixed media, incorporating motifs from flora, fauna and literature that have also been translated onto printed, vintage–style t–shirts. More humorous in tone, Garvey’s work draws from pop culture, picturing characters ranging from Johnny Cash to blue–collar beer guzzlers. If you’re hoping to spice up your closet, don't miss Reward's exclusive clothing selection.
Space 1026 1026 Arch St. 2nd Fl. 7–10 p.m. Never been to an art auction? Take the first step and preview one at Space 1026. Don’t worry, it won’t cost you millions. The actual auction, which takes place a week later on December 9, has all bids starting at $5. More of a collaborative venture than a typical gallery, Space 1026 is managed completely by its artist members.
All of the profits from the auction will help support this project, allowing these artists an affordable and independent space to work in. Previous auctions have included a diverse array of works from the mythological reinterpretations of Matt Leines to Bonnie Brenda Scott's sensuous depictions of the internal and external human body. Stop by not only to view the art but also to enjoy live music courtesy of Psychic Franklin and DJ Lei–Away.
Drink Philly 239 Chestnut St. 2nd Fl, Unit B 5–9 p.m. RSVP at philly.thedrinknation.com 21+ Add some variety to your Friday night beverages by checking out Drink Philly's First Friday gathering. An invaluable online resource that promotes local bars and educated drinking, Drink Philly will welcome the public into its Old City headquarters to sample beverages, food, art and music all for free. This December, attendees can enjoy an exhibition by Side Arts, a program that supports local artists and their crafts, ranging from paintings and photography to tattoo and fiber arts.
If you're an art student, bring along your latest work, because Side Arts and Drink Philly are always on the lookout for new talent to showcase. The exhibition is accompanied by a live jazz band as well as some unique pub food including cheesesteak spring rolls and chicken sliders paired with Headwaters Pale Ale and Prima Pils beer.
