First Friday: An Art Lover's Paradise!

So I've been saying some bad things about the Vegas art scene, but I didn't even know there was an arts district until a week ago.  And now I've got some apologizing to do. 

Tonight was the First Friday event down by the strip, and I decided to go check it out. Four of our team members were selling there (Funky Recycling, Liza Amor, Lynne Adamson and Vegas Henna).  I left my little girls and husband at home and roughed it solo so I could take my time and enjoy all the art.  And man, there was endless art!  All the galleries were packed with locals enjoying the paintings, the artists sat in every corner answering all questions and accepting all compliments, there was great live music every 10 feet, tons of crowds, and a great overall community vibe.

 For any of you who have not been to First Friday, they'll be doing it every month throughout the summer and it's a must for any local who wants to feel like they actually live in a community of living people rather than strip malls.  I had a wonderful time and bought way too much great art that I'm totally in love with.

Also, dear Christine with Funky Recycling donated a few of her funky necklaces  (this and this) to be used as prizes in our current contest!  I snuck a shot of her doing business tonight at First Friday - the place was hopping!  Thanks so much, Christine!

I got to have a great chat with Melissa of Vegas Henna as well whose henna work is really quite divine.  She was pretty busy painting henna designs on customers, but had a great display as well.  Melissa, you need to list that deer painting of yours so I can buy it!

I tried to meet Liza Amor but just missed her at her gallery.  Rather than cry into my soup, I picked up one of her Judaica-inspired original works of art on canvas for only $10!!  That's right, folks, artists are still charging too little for their work.  Will we ever learn?  I'll catch you next time, Liza.

And finally, I got to see the amazing art of Ms. Lynne Adamson.  Like most art, it's impossible to fully appreciate until you see it in person.  Lynne has an amazing eye for color and contrast.  She's even just finished illustrating a children's book.  I was fortunate enough to purchase a print of one of my favorites of hers, Simplicity.  I think it will be a perfect gift for my mom on Mother's Day!

So Vegas, I apologize.  We've got quite a little art community right here in the middle of Sin City.  The real sin was that I didn't know it until now.