The third Local Social event held last Friday evening was the best ever (seriously). The July event (see post here) was special because it coincided with gallery openings on McPherson. For the August event the organizers at CWE Scene ramped up the entertainment to include more artists and more musicians performing everywhere you looked from McPherson to Maryland Plaza.
The other addition to this month’s event (there is one more scheduled for September 13) was a cross promotion between restaurateurs who created signature drinks (incorporating event sponsor American Harvest Organic Spirit’s Vodka) and local shopowners. A list of the restaurants, their special drinks, and the shops that served them is at the end of the post.
I love the photo of “art activist” Billy Bill, above, painting next to the fabulous photograph of Marilyn Monroe in the window of the soon-to-open Embellishments on McPherson.
Stylish Raven Wolf C. Felton Jennings II Healing Sound Recording Artist set up a very cool environment (see below) for his equally cool sounds, “spiritual jazz in the St. Louis tradition,” next to Kopperman’s on Euclid.
The musician placed an arrangement of inspirational items at his feet, which you’ll notice are clad in “fivefingers” athletic shoes. Raven
Wolf’s cds are available for purchase on his website.
The Landolfi Quartet filled the evening air with dreamy music next to Left Bank Books. Many people stood and listened, but a pair of bystanders decided to sit and stay awhile. Just perfect.
A Living Statue was an awesome addition. Wayne Canpa set his stand at the corner of Euclid and McPherson–and waited. Many people who passed by were oblivious to the fact that he was real.
Later in the evening the actor moved to Maryland and Euclid. There he met with the same reaction until a woman screamed when he tipped his hat.
Artist Zach Smithey, who was stationed outside Gamlin Whiskey House last month, worked on his Mark Twain series just east of Libby’s on Friday.
Unfortunately I missed getting a shot of Arlene Lilie, the proprietor of the shop above, who I’m told sang along with guitarist Billy Barnett.
Cheerful top spinner, Hiroshi Tada, invited passersby to participate on Maryland Plaza.
Artists Jason Danker and Jennifer Hayes worked beside each other by the Maryland Plaza fountain.
I also love this summertime shot in front of the future Lululemon store where the Matt McCallie Orchestra entertained while a young woman enjoyed a FroYo.
There’s something for everyone to enjoy at these events. The last Local Social event of the season is scheduled for Friday, September 13. There will be more entertainment, special offers in shops, and undoubtedly more cocktails to sample too. Don’t miss it!
Here are the restaurants/bars and the shops they paired with using sponsor American Harvest Organic Spirit Vodka:
Dressel’s created “Summer Harvest Martinis” for The Silver Lady & Arlene Lille
Herbie’s created “French ’72” cocktails for Libby’s & Centro
Sub Zero created “American Mules” for Ivy Hill & Mike’s Bikes
Brennnan’s created “Danny Wants a Fresca” for Moris Fashions
Llywelyn’s created a drink for the Houska Gallery, Lester’s for Q Boutique, Bar Italia for AG Jens, Cafe Eau for Mary Jane’s.