re:live // | recap
During uncertain social scares it's so important to recognize the power of community.
One of the wonderful parts of Santa Barbara is the amazing, talented, ever-growing community of local artists and creative minds. This makes the Santa Barbara area the perfect place to plan and be a part of many diverse types of immersive and unique events.
RE: Live// is an amazing example of these unique experiences. Under the artistic direction of Meredith Cabaniss, it was a privilege to partner with Selah Dance Collective and their new non-profit board to produce a series of events where artist and audience could connect on a whole new level.
The month long pop-up residency encouraged collaboration and connection for a range of performance and studio artists, including unforgettable moments that ranged from projected video imagery of underwater models on the front of the building (Ethan Turpin, Robin Bisio) to an audience participation break dancing session with Everybody Dance Now.
Delicious VIP nibbles were provided by Slate Catering and Roy's Restaurant, with a curated cocktail selection by Patrick Reynolds(@localbarkeep) and beer sponsored by Draughtsman Aleworks and attendee discounts at Night Lizard Brewing down the street.
One of the most satisfying pieces of this project was promoting a #plasticfreeparty, with sustainable stainless steel cups being used instead of plastic throw aways. Guests could either purchase the cups to take home or hand back to the bar to be sanitized and used at the next party!
Venue space was generously negotiated with local real estate firm Investec, with marketing and permitting support provided by Santa Barbara Downtown Organization.
Sound, lighting, and rentals were provided by EOS Lounge, with after party music sets by D.J. Frew.
Performance artists ranged from acoustic musicians and flamenco to modern choreographed dance pieces, with audience interaction playing a big role in the sold-out weekend evening performances (PsychoPomb Dance Theater, Juli Farley, Selah Dance Collective, SBCC Dance, Nebula Dance Lab, Jessica Haro, Urban Dance Co., EDN!).
The pop-up gallery was also lined with impressive works from studio artists with mediums ranging from photography to paint and mixed materials. Ariel T. Bournes was featured as artist in residence, working on site to complete a commission piece during daytime gallery hours.
Overall, working with the Selah Dance Collective and the vast array of event partners was an honor and I cannot wait to continue testing the boundaries of these type of pop-ups do for both events and the arts.