Renassiance: Roam the Globe
~ April 01, 2008 ~
Have you ever dreamed of wandering the shores of the great port cities of the world? Here’s your opportunity to become a “world traveler” close to home. One of the most popular social events in the area returns this year when Studio 1219 hosts Renaissance: Roam the Globe on May 17, 2008, from 4:00 until 9:00 p.m. A major fund-raiser for the Studio, this year’s event will offer participants the opportunity to view and purchase juried art at historic buildings each representing a different “Port of Call.” These “destinations” will also offer food, music and beverages that reflect the flavor of that particular “port.” An added dimension this year will be stops at The Bramble and the Highlander Sea. The Bramble is a retired Coast Guard Cutter decommissioned in 2003, after a colorful history on the Great Lakes. The Highlander Sea, a 154 foot gaff-rigged topsail schooner, was built in 1924 and now serves as Port Huron’s flagship and goodwill ambassador.
Patrons and participants can purchase a “passport’ for only ten dollars at any of the sites. Passports will be stamped at each “port” visited. Those with fully stamped passports are eligible for a drawing at the end of the evening. The Studio will be opened until 10:30 p.m. and will feature John Henry in the solo gallery. John is one of the best-selling artists at the Studio and is well-known for his versatility and the wide variety of his art offerings. The Studio will also represent a “port” and will also offer food, music and beverages. Again this year, the trolleys will help make transportation between sites easy and fun. Wristbands will be issued to those over the age of 21.
Live local music will be featured. The Studio will be decorated as an Irish Pub. Other “ports” will be New Orleans, Perth, Australia, and Italy. At each stop, you will find fellow “Roamers” enjoying the evening. Past participant, Paul Wessel, enthusiastically endorsed his experience by sharing that he had waited for something like this to happen in this area for a long time. “I’ll definitely come back next year,” said Wessel. Another comment overheard at last year’s Roam was, “We don’t have anything like THIS in Royal Oak!”
The concept which allows local artists, musicians, and chefs an opportunity to showcase their talent, is a first for our area. “What we are trying to promote is the idea that supporting arts and culture is good for the community as a whole because it keeps money circulating in our area.” says Tara Russel, Program Director of Studio 1219. “Where else can you buy one-of-a-kind gifts made locally and enjoy a stimulating evening of fun for only ten dollars?”
