Friday night, the hi-dive was transformed into a safe haven called at the first Street-2-Screen, dedicated to our local graffiti art community and those who admire their work. The film Quality of Life was screened to a more than receptive audience, and afterwards, artists and neophytes alike were encouraged to make their mark on the venues walls, which were lined in preparation for this on-the-spot art gallery.
This open mic for art came as a surprise initially, and one artist laughed when told that he was free to express himself. “Wow. That’s very cool. We aren’t encouraged like this very often…or ever.” It didn’t take long for others to join in, and by the end of the night the hi-dive was lined with amazing sights and unique lines of color. INDYINK had to run to their store just down the street to grab more pens for the enthusiastic response.
Through the night, our sponsor’s generous donations were raffled off to party goers, while DJs B-Money and DJ Thought kept the turntables and vibes warm and groovy. And near the front stage, some of Denver’s best, including Jher 451, Paths One and Markham Maes, created new pieces before our eyes. Sean, a Detroit artist who used ball cap hats as his canvas, set up shop.
Overall, both the artists and the people who admire and support street art couldn’t get over the great vibe that was created that night. A number of them commented that they’d never been to the hi-dive, so it was cool to introduce them to one of our best venues in town.
Thanks goes out to all those who came out and to of course, our sponsors INDYINK, Plastic Chapel, Fabric Lab, Brave New World, Basementalism and The 400. I also want send big hugs to Jef Hoskins of Quality of Life for bringing Kaffeine Buzz this opportunity to produce Street-2-Screen, and to Ray Young Chu and his Yummies, for jumping in with both of his furry feet to make it all happen. Love you guys.
