Events

Crafts; it is such a generic word. Often used to describe the creative endeavors of stay-at-home mothers and sorority sisters. However, artists have been using similar media and techniques of “crafts” to create some of the most spectacular graphic designs, urban art, street art, paper sculptures, and more. This exhibition: “The X-Actobles: Paper, Cuts, and Crafts” at BASIC on August 14, presents a group of artists who’s work pushes the definition of “fine arts” and of “crafts.” San Diego based stencil artist, GrandLarsen, is a t-shirt artist by day. His background in screen-printing and graphic design evolved into stencils for his own artistic development. His work highlights social problems and wielding razor blades and spray paint he makes powerful statements with his work. Another local artist is Toygami. This provocative artist folds paper into doll-like sculptures, similar to origami. His roots belong to graffiti art and graphic design. His work is half craft, half engineering, and sometimes it takes several tries before a project comes together. His work is reminiscent of pop art, with his own graffiti hip-hop essence. William Bucher is a born and raised San Diego artist. His work stands on the fence between fine art and street art. Bucher sees no difference between the two definitions. Using spray paint and canvas, Bucher creates portraits of famous personalities. He uses bright colors and images of influential people to make statements about ideas he believes to be important. Other artists exhibiting at the show are Keemowerks, Konstant Be, Ann Lee, Victor Villa, Fate, RBST, Patrick Seibt, and Barkdog. Live artists will create right before your eyes, while local DJs provide the soundtrack for the evening. The show opens at 7pm and runs until 12pm on August 14. BASIC is located at 410 Tenth Avenue in downtown, San Diego. There is no dress code and no cover. However, you must be at least 21 years old to attend.