By Krystle J. Bailey
The 8th Annual ARTeriors, hosted by the Atlantic City Arts Foundation (ACAF) in partnership with The Orange Loop Beach House, kicks off on November 5. The immersive arts celebration features installations from 14 local artists who will transform the interior of 112 Ocean Avenue in Atlantic City.
Owned by real estate investors, Kurt and Beth Kwart, the property will ultimately become the next Airbnb on the block. However, before they call in the demolition team, the space will become a temporary art exhibit.
“The impermanence of it is what’s kind of cool about it. It’s a reminder not to get too attached to things and that everything is fleeting,” explains artist, Christian Correa.
Correa will be transforming the second-floor bedroom into an interactive and introspective exhibit entitled, “Politics as Unusual.” The experiential installation aims to challenge the status quo regarding politics and encourage participants to think outside of the red and blue boxes we often find ourselves in.
The three-story building will be filled from floor to ceiling with art that inspires, tells stories, and pushes boundaries. As guests travel up and down the stairs, which are beautifully designed by artist Michelle Franzoni, they will be invited to not only view the art but experience it.
The artistic range is vast at ARTeriors, from the first floor exhibits, including “Inner Peace,” by artist Johnny DreamAwake, a transformative piece inspired by poetry and love, to the third-floor bedroom experience by Heather Hires.
Bathrooms will be bubbling over with art by Randi Meekins and Christina Walley. Walls will be covered in thought-provoking murals by Mark Hills, Greg Simmons, and Gary Lindley. Kitchens, bedrooms, and living areas will be completely morphed into a fully immersive art museum.
“It really is a great experience meeting all these other artists,” explains Lindley. “This changed my mindset about the vibe in Atlantic City. Even the neighbors have been super nice!”
This is the first ARTeriors hosted in a residential property. ARTeriors exhibits in the past were inside of a variety of different business spaces prior to their renovation. The Kwarts, owners of Orange Loop Beach House, are thrilled to give space for the artistic experience and plan to preserve as much of the art as possible during the forthcoming renovation. 112 Ocean Avenue will eventually sleep 10 guests and add to the lineup of Airbnbs on the block, which is adjacent to Tennessee Avenue.
This particular property is connected to the outside dining area at Rhythm & Spirits restaurant, owned by Lee Sanchez and Mark Callazzo. On November 5, the opening reception will be held in the Rhythm & Spirits courtyard, giving way to the ARTeriors experience. The reception will take place from 4:00 to 6:30 pm and will include light bites, drinks, and up-close interactions with the participating artists. The installation, however, will remain in place until November 21 for guests to enjoy.
“It’s truly an honor to be able to host such talented local artists and give them an opportunity to showcase their art,” shares Beth Kwart.
This star-studded artist event is unlike anything else in our area. The Atlantic City Arts Foundation, now in its 8th year, exists to foster an environment in which diverse arts and cultural programs enrich the quality of life for residents and visitors to Atlantic City.
With events such as Chalk about AC, 48 Blocks, and ARTeriors, the ACAF is living up to its mission, creating unique and memorable artistic experiences for South Jersey year-round.
Grab tickets for ARTeriors and connect with ACAF at www.atlanticcityartsfoundation.org and on social media at Atlantic City Arts Foundation.
Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia journalist, Author, Poet.
Connect with Krystle on Instagram @thedailybailey5
