The newest up-and-coming artists could be discovered in Long Island City as Conception Events introduces New York City to dozens of artists during the first Emerging Artists Festival weekend.
The event being brought to Long Island City is part of a growing trend of galleries, arts festivals and installments popping up in the neighborhood, something curator Mike Wolf wanted to be a part of.
“When we first discussed bringing a show to this area, it was clear that something exciting was happening by the big names that were eager to be involved,” he said.
The festival begins at 7 p.m. at the Nesva Hotel, located at 39-12 29 St., where guests can pick up their welcome packet.
At 8 p.m., four artists will go head to head in a live painting event called Art Clash. There will be a second round at 9 p.m.
If competitive painting isn’t your thing, the Space Gallery at 29-09 39 Ave. will host artist Danny Quirk’s anatomical body painting, accompanied by Vito Genna on flamenco guitar.
The event’s co-sponsor, Vespa Queens, will also host a special exhibit at 37-43 Crescent St. at 8 p.m. called “OPTIMO NYC,” where the street artist of the same name will live paint one of the company’s Vespas to be auctioned off.
Several other artists, including Tone Tank, Adam Ware and Rachel Wilkins, will also have showings at Vespa Queens.
For the musical crowd, Dutch Kills Centraal at 38-40 29 St. will feature live acoustic sets by Vince Coczello at 9:15 p.m. and the Hampton Brothers at 10 p.m.
When all is said and done, guests can have fun at the after-party at Dutch Kills Centraal at 11 p.m.
After the special events, art will remain on view until June 13 at the Nesva Hotel, Space Gallery, Dutch Kills Centraal and Vespa Queens.
2014 Emerging Artists Festival
When: June 6 to 13, starting at 7 p.m.
Where: Check-in at Nesva Hotel, 39-12 29 St., LIC
Tickets: $5 at door for all exhibits
