We recently hosted the second edition of our Storytelling Speakeasy series. The first edition was a resounding success, and we had high hopes for this one, which did not disappoint. This time, we opted for a different approach. We wanted to bring people together through more than just socializing, so we included storytelling, live music by the wonderful Gene Taylor, and a connecting activity.
The audience was given a selection of prompts to choose from, including: How do we celebrate the bodega cat? How would you sell a vacation on Mars? How would you change your block? Come up with the most amazing event in New York City ever. How do we solve the New York City rat problem? How would you make the subway really worth $2.90?
Groups were formed to respond to the prompts, people got to collaborate with strangers and bond around finding solutions.
They presented their elevator pitches in front of the audience. It was a lot of fun, and evidence of the wonderful creativity around. Thanks to an imaginary clapper meter, judged by Comrade Cav and curator Richard Burroughs, a winner was declared. See video!
It was also a soft opening for the exhibit titled “A Touch of Red, A Touch of Life,” curated by Quiana Dumas. But hush (It’s a speakeasy!), more about that later. The art provided context to the event, aligning with Gallery Particulier’s mission of making visual art a friendly, inviting, and welcoming experience.
