Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Jack Robinson's Canal Street
photo: Jack Robinson Archive
who: Jack Robinson
what: an exhibit of twenty-one photographs of Canal Street c . 1950
where: Sheraton New Orleans Hotel lobby, 500 Canal Street
when: opening reception, Thursday October 30 from 5 - 7 pm
then: Prospect.Everyone, Thursday October 30, from 7-10 pm @ 500 Julia Street
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Club Desire (THREATENED)
, originally uploaded by .
Name of public place: CLUB DESIRE
Address/location: 2604 Desire St. corner of Law
Neighborhood: Upper Ninth Ward, Florida Development
Why does your place deserve to be nominated? Explain in detail why this place is important, such as how it tells an important story from history, houses cultural activities and traditions, serves as an important space for socializing, or enhances the beauty or artistic character of your neighborhood.
The club was likely built sometime between 1920-1940 in an a hybrid mission / moderne style. The entrance was lined in glass blocks which glowed when the club had live music. The club hosted the finest of New Orleans jazz, rhythm and blues: Fats Domino, Deacon John, Louis Armstrong, Billie Holliday.
Please include any details about the site or physical features if the place. Also, are you aware of any physical damage or plans that threaten the future of the place?
It is on the imminent health threat list. On Monday 10.20.08, the Club Desire was slated for review by the Neighborhood Conservation District Committee.
Are you aware of any other individuals or organizations that may have more information about the place you nominated?
In May WDSU reported that attempts were being made by Marguerite Doyle-Johnston to save the club. YouTube
Fats Domino would be a great interview. According to this interview with Rick Coleman, Fats Domino was discovered in 1949 playing at The Hideaway across the street from Club Desire.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
National Maritime Union (under renovation)
, originally uploaded by .
see new photos in .
Thursday, October 2, 2008
ELEMENTAL :: art opening
, originally uploaded by .
I have a new body of glass work on display at the BECA Gallery this month. Three of the pieces include multi-faceted glass chains. The individual links are assembled and fused from multiple layers of small glass bricks. In and the chains are strapped to woven rubber canvas made from recycled bicycle inner tubes and stretched across a wooden frame. The rubber and glass play off each other in a pure material dialogue of tension, elasticity and rigidity. A series of continue an ongoing interest in the evolution of language and drawing and the correlations between books and walls. My art work is heavily influenced by my studies of bookmaking, architecture and philosophy. The center piece of the show, a monumental , was previously displayed at the The fused glass panel is assembled from pieces of recycled mid-century green jalousie glass. The panel is bound and suspended with sisal rope from the center beam of the gallery.
The show officially opens Saturday night from 6-9 pm in conjunction with Art for Arts' Sake. There will be a sneak preview tonight from 6-7.
BECA Gallery (map)
527 St. Joseph St. New Orleans