Hot Dog art Credit: Robert Huffstutter, via Flickr

Hot Dog art Credit: Robert Huffstutter, via Flickr

These three Tampa art parties offer an interesting alternative to the pool party barbecues you’re used to attending over Memorial Day Weekend. Check ’em out.

Tropical Impressions at The Bricks

Tropical Impressions at The Bricks Credit: The Bricks, Atomic Tattoos, via Facebook
This Saturday's "Tropical Impressions" art show at The Bricks is more than just an art show. It's also an excellent excuse to don your best tiki attire, have a few cocktails and buy some art while listening to tunes from local surf rock bands Twisty Chris and the Puddin' Packs and The Wrenchers. There's a costume contest at 10 p.m., and the person wearing the best tiki outfit wins $100 in gift cards. The Bricks, 1327 E. 7th Ave., Tampa; Sat., May 25, 8 p.m.-1 a.m.; thebricksybor.com.

Swimming in Waves — A Photography Exhibit at Lot 1901

Swimming in Waves at Lot 1901 Credit: Mergeculture, Illsol, Lot 1901, via Facebook

Love music photography? Then this is the art party for you. This Merge Culture-curated photography exhibit features work from 11 of Tampa’s best music photographers. It’s a great way to familiarize yourself with the Tampa music scene and those documenting it. The list of photogs includes CL music photographer Brian Mahar. As one would hope, there will be live music at the party. Bring your camera and take some music photography of your own. Lot 1901, 1901 E. 2nd Ave. Tampa; Sat., May 25, 6 p.m.-1 a.m.; $10 in advance; mergeculture.com.

Memorial Day Eve Sunset Hot Dog Comedy Night at QUAID

Rapscallion comedy night Credit: QUAID, via Facebook

I’ve been seeing a lot of online buzz about Rapscallion ever since the art exhibition opened at Seminole Heights’ favorite garage gallery last Saturday. But don’t worry, you didn’t miss it. QUAID is throwing another party in conjunction with the exhibition this Sunday, and this party comes with free hot dogs (while supplies last), Pabst Blue Ribbon and a comedy show. The show features artwork from 13 Tampa-based millennial artists and comedy from  Greg Creft, Shellie Harris, Cara Millburg, Jarrett Moore, Alex Utz and Marie Williams. QUAID, 5128 N. Florida Ave., Tampa; Sun., May 26, 4-10 p.m.; $5 at the door; quaidgallery.com.

This article appears in May 23-30, 2019.

Jen began her storytelling journey in 2017, writing and taking photographs for Creative Loafing Tampa. Since then, she’s told the story of art in Tampa Bay through more than 200 art reviews, artist profiles,...