Viva L'Artista!

Katie Sevigny, myself and Marieke Heatwole sampling Marieke's Mojito's!

Look what happens when you give a bunch of artists a theme of Viva L'Artista and a place to party! Last night we held our second annual Art Coffee Soiree at Katie Sevigny's Gallery. The crazy

good time probably had to do with sticking "Private Party" signs on Katie's front doors, or the venue, maybe even the good food or the huge thirst quenching area (bar!), the live music OR even the

Chinese Gift Exchange?! Each artist could bring a friend, spouse or partner and was asked to bring a Latin, Cuban or Hispanic-style, dish and beverage to share as well as a handmade, wrapped gift to exchange. We had a wonderful mix of artists who shared their various mediums, met new friends and talked art and music all night long. Even the partners of the artists seemed to have a good time and I overheard spouses swapping stories of how "it's tough being married to an artist isn't it?!" "Art Coffee" started a couple of years ago between Mary H., Marieke, both Linda's and myself as a way to get us all out of the studio and get together and share our art experiences. Depending on the time of year, we'd share everything from tax issues, to gallery groans or cheers, upcoming shows, or yak about the lack-o-inspiration that has plagued us all. When I'd send out the e-mail announcing the next Art Coffee, I'd ask that everyone forward the e-mail to other artists who might want to join our little gatherings. And look how it's grown -Viva L'Artista!