A lot has happened since UICA started their annual kick-off event to ArtPrize, Oddball, debuted six years ago. And while the theme of each of the previous five have revolved around a theme, this year’s retooling of OddBall should have a lot of heads turning (and I mean this in the best possible way).
For starters, OddBall 2016: FUTURE TALK, presented by Meijer, is so much more now than just a kick-off party, as UICA has added dinner and a chance to reveal a new awards program.
This year expect to be pampered with signature cocktails, dinner by Applause Catering and Events, a dessert bar that includes the sweetly creative Cakabakery and deliciously dark Rowster's coffee.
During the sit-down dinner portion of the evening, UICA’s OddBall will debut an inaugural Arts Advocate Award, which will be presented this year to Kathryn Chaplow, Principal and Interior Designer at Kathryn Chaplow Interior Design. Chaplow was the former chair of UICA Board of Directors.
This first-time award features the design of local artist Tom Duimstra. At each table on this evening will be an original Duimstra sculpture available for purchase, so don’t play since I expect these sell out rather quickly.
As with every OddBall, the entertainment is fresh, original and totally brand spanking new to our region as a new exclusive performance titled “FOUR SEASONS” will debut from ArtPrize entrant Ritsu Katsumata. Her time-based entry will be performed live and feature original music with Hugo Claudin on the electric violin. Dancer Rachel Finan will joining the musicians as she performs an interpretation of William Duckworth's Time Curve Prelude #6, which is reported to have been the inspiration for this new performance work.
Later in the evening attendees will enjoy seeing Emma Loo and Sam live as this duo will challenge the eyes and ears, with their multi-instrumental melodies and vocal effects adding to the OddBall knack for providing a touch of an outer world experience via their soundscape and visual experience.
Guests are encouraged to dress in a futuristic cocktail attire. If that is too scary of a leap, you are always welcome to check out UICA’s event
Pinterest page, where in the past they have posted images to help get your creative juices flowing as you seek to create your futuristic outfit.
OddBall 2016 is a chance for you not only to see the artwork of FUTURE TALK a full 12 days before the ArtPrize public arrives, but this evening will also give you a chance to meet the artists.
UICA’s ArtPrize Eight exhibition, FUTURE TALK is a survey of recent digital and new media works. FUTURE TALK presents 16 works by 17 emerging, mid-career and established American artists whose media, materials and content are reflective of and responsive to their time.
While the theme of OddBall is always slightly skewed to the fantastical, the reality is that this is a wonderful event that truly kicks off the fall season in the city.
Admission: UICA Members: $178.28, Public: $197.28