A table can connect families, foster discussion or encourage a game of cards. This weekend, a table in Grand Center also provides a canvas for artistic and cultural expression.
“Table” opened Thursday night at the new Duet art space, 3526 Washington Ave., with an evening of drinks and folk music. Friday night at 7, the custom wood design by Martin Goebel becomes the stage for a new media performance.
Participants in the free event become part of the “tableau,” which translates to “living picture.” Movements and interactions of seated guests are incorporated into the visual and auditory show by sound artist Kevin Harris and new-media artist Jeremy Kannapell.
Saturday and Sunday’s “Table” events include a tea ceremony, knitting circle, beer tasting, chess match and tarot card readings.
Other Friday art openings in Grand Center and around town include The Sheldon’s “Imagining the Founding of St. Louis.” An opening reception from 5-7 p.m. launches an exhibit focused on the Gateway City’s origins, and offers a display of artifacts from Missouri’s native inhabitants including the Osage, Missouria and Illiniwek tribes.
Craft Alliance in Grand Center also opens a new exhibit Friday night from 6-9 p.m. The 13 artists of “Fail-Safe: Discomforts Close to Home” explore discontent, anxiety and longing in the 21st century using materials typically associated with comfort.
The International Photography Hall of Fame is debuting four exhibitions. "Decisive Moments: 20th Century Street Photography from St. Louis Collections" explores the evolution of street photography over the last decade. "St. Louis Shoots: Contemporary Photographers from St. Louis" features local artists, and another exhibition focuses on the city's South Side.
The University City Public Library opens “The Art of Folk” exhibit in a 6-8 p.m. Friday event. The exhibition features the work of clients from Turner Center for the Arts, which supports the creative expression of artists with disabilities.
On Saturday night, St. Louis City Open Studio Gallery holds its annual Wall Ball fundraiser from 7-11 p.m. Tickets are $30 each for the 3rd Degree Glass Factory event featuring 30 artists creating work on site.
More upcoming local openings can be found at the STLOpenings blog.
