In the Seminole Heights and Tampa Heights neighborhoods, three ultra-hip galleries launch new art shows in tandem on Friday, Sept. 9, make hopping to each one easy and enjoyable.
Noires-Noirs: The Black Show is a group exhibit at Bleu Acier featuring contemporary artworks by North American and European talents. Robyn Voshardt and Sven Humphrey, Neil Bender, Francois Boisrond, Hervé Di Rosa, Steve McClure, Abbott Miller, Ulf Rungenhagen, Paula Scher and many others explore the physical possibilities of black — its depths, hues and values — and how it varies in media, from gouache, oil and charcoal to photographs, prints and moving images. Sip cocktails and examine the works while Soul Down spins live grooves at the opening reception, which occurs from 7 to 11 p.m. (suggested donation of $4). Regular gallery hours are 1 to 5 p.m. Saturdays and by appointment; Noires-Noirs is on display through Oct. 22. 109 W. Columbus Drive, Tampa, 813-272-9746 or www.bleuacier.com.
Bad Art for Bad People's leading visionary is featured in a solo exhibition at Kama Gallery. The Photography of Bob White includes the photographer's most recent collection of nonsensical, punk-pop images that range from creepy clowns to eerily radiant religious icons. Meet White at the opening reception from 7 p.m. to midnight, and enjoy a live performance by Inner Workings, a project by Mike Browning involving keyboards and a Theremin (the term "alien soundscapes" has been thrown around but we can't make any promises). Call 813-241-6939 for regular hours or to make an appointment. Bob White's work is on display through Oct. 1. 2929 N. 15th St., Tampa.
If you read the Planet at all, you probably know at least a little about the Family Values Portrait Project, which was initiated by a coalition of artists and activists ("Just Say Know") after the Hillsborough County Commission voted against observing gay pride events. Just Say Know opened an impromptu photography studio and shot portraits of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, and straight families in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties; Covivant Gallery & Studios opens an exhibit of these photos with a reception from 7 to 9 p.m. Regular hours are noon-5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. and by appointment; the photos are on display through Oct. 2. 4906 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, 813-234-0222 or www.covivant.com.
Leilani Polk
