Who knew? Tampa's own Bask, an artist and inveterate graffiti writer who embraces the label of vandal, hails from the Czech Republic. Dobre Den (English translation: "good day" or hello) is the title of an exhibition of his latest paintings, prints and installations, which opens Saturday (Dec. 13, 8-11 p.m.) at Pale Horse Design and Gallery. In classic Bask form, the artist samples pop cultural iconography into multilayered graphics with serious anti-establishment 'tude. In case you hadn't already pegged him for an Obama man, a recent painting on wood of the president-elect's triumphant sunrise logo over an upside-down elephant leaves little doubt as to Bask's allegiance. For more information, go to palehorsedesign.com.
At ARTpool, get a glimpse of the creative process from beginning to end as artists work live on site in the media of photography, painting, printmaking, installation, mixed media and silk screening, as well as music and fashion, at the Foundation Show on Friday (Dec. 12, 8 p.m.-12 a.m.). For a tenner, hang out with the artists and enjoy complimentary drinks and hors d'oeuvres as DJ Cub spins. The funky rent-a-wall-gallery-cum-vintage-boutique follows up with a Holiday Yard Sale on Saturday (Dec. 13, 12-5 p.m.) with art, crafts and miscellany available for sale — and bartering! Oh, recession. For more information, go to artpoolrules.com.
Finally, the Tampa Artist Emporium, another local venue where artists rent wall space and pocket the profits of their work, recently reopened in South Tampa after moving from Hyde Park Village. The Emporium's Holiday Art Mixer on Saturday (Dec. 13, 5-9 p.m.) invites the public to choose from work by 67 area artists, from potters to photographers to sculptors and jewelry makers, while sampling complimentary wine. For more information, go to tampaartistemporium.com.
