Art Nights Out
White, Dirty, and Off-White Linen
By Suzanne PfefferleWhite Linen Night
One of New Orleans’ favorite block parties is back for the 14th year. On August 2, Whitney White Linen Night, presented by The New Orleans Arts District Association and sponsored by Whitney National Bank, will return to the Warehouse Arts District for their annual art-walk.
Starting at 6 PM, galleries between the 300 and 600 blocks of Julia Street will welcome white linen-clad guests inside to ooh and aah over exceptional artwork. Vibrant paintings and statuesque sculptures, created by local and international talents, will be on display for the art-adoring community.
While strolling down the street, try to stop inside every air-conditioned gallery, since each spot has something unique to offer. The Jonathan Ferrara Gallery is one of them. Flaunting new works by Kathleen Ariatti Banton, Ferrara’s gallery will give a splash of color to the crisp, white night. Many of her abstract pieces are derived from her own life experiences and her response to them is etched into each painting. The end result is appealing and affective.
Banton’s paintings often convey messages, emotion, and meaning through the strategic placement of shapes and deliberate strokes of paint. She even uses the juxtaposition of lines to create the sense of a struggle and stacked images to represent the endless amount of responsibilities that we carry. Each original creation is a story captured on canvas, and it is one that art enthusiasts will want to follow throughout Ferrara’s gallery.
Besides Banton’s exhibit, several blocks of Julia Street will be crammed with vibrant creations, so wear comfortable shoes and start strolling! After getting some unexpected exercise, refuel with a delicious, simmering dinner, which will be provided by local restaurants. If you’re thirsty, refreshments will also be on hand.
In addition to tasty cuisine and sugary cocktails, live entertainment will throw some more merriment into the mix and maybe even tempt the crowd into dancing. If you are worried about the hot weather, keep your cool! Handheld fans will be available to keep you feeling fresh and comfortable.
At 9 PM, when the sun officially sets, swing by the CAC for the White Linen Night official after-party. In addition to more food and refreshments, festive entertainment will be provided by John Mooney & Friends with Sunpie Barnes. The excitement-filled event is the perfect ending for another White Linen Night.
Dirty Linen Night
On the other side of town, the Royal Streets Arts District will also throw a party in honor of this staple in southern fashion, but this one has an interesting twist. On August 9, galleries in the heart of the historic French Quarter, along with BORN, will host the 7th annual Dirty Linen Night.
Since not all linen is created equally, feel free to experiment with your outfit and to try out different styles, or go green and recycle your wardrobe from White Linen Night. Either way, with the eclectic art lovers that crowd these streets, almost anything goes.
The free festivity will span several blocks of Royal Street, Jackson Square, and the Dutch Alley Artist’s Co-Op at Dumaine and Decatur. Participating galleries will feature vibrant palettes of color, created by noteworthy artists from all over the world.
Among all of the “must-see” artwork featured in each gallery, make sure to stop by the Angela King Gallery for a truly original and eye-catching exhibit. Two artists will be on display – painter, Andrew Baird, from Colorado, and New Orleans glass artist, James Vella. Baird’s portrait paintings, which some critics claim resemble Pollack, have a distinct style. By layering combinations of colors and lines, Baird creates energy in each painting. The chaotic, yet controlled, use of shades and shapes intrigues the viewer, an involvement that, he believes, makes the art more complete.
Also on display in King’s gallery is glass artist, James Vella. Vella uses everyday objects in his life as inspiration for his elaborate glass sculptures. Each delicate work of art is meaningful and significant.
After admiring the artwork, sip on some champagne or grab a bite to eat from one of the several booths providing mouthwatering Creole cuisine. Cash bars will be available so that you can indulge your appetite. While munching on tasty treats, enjoy the live entertainment that is sure to jazz up the evening.
Although many locals think of the French Quarter as a tourist attraction, New Orleanians come from every corner of the Crescent City to celebrate Dirty Linen Night. Since parking has become much easier in the usually congested area, there is just no excuse to miss it!
Off White Linen Night
Also included in the spectrum of parties is the Will Smith Gallery, for the 4th Annual Off White Linen Night. On August 2, the annual art event will kick off at its location on 1061 Camp Street and Calliope, right next to the CAC.
The party, which starts at 6 pm, will feature seven local artists, including Elaine Gleason, Shmuela Padnos, Tamart, Margie Tillman, Elizabeth Underwood, Kathryn Wheat, and of course, Will Smith.
Music by Missy Meatlocker and O.L.D. among other bands, will play to the crowd’s delight as they peruse the latest fashions by Cree McCree. The Paul Artigue Taco Truck will provide spicy snacks and refreshing Abita beer.
When Off White Linen Night ends at 10 pm, make your way down the street to Circle Bar, where the after-party begins.