New Orleans has two major art nights a year; White Linen Night, aptly named, is held in the summer and Art for Art’s Sake occurs in the fall. Many of the major local art galleries have opening receptions on the first Saturday evening of each month, but these two nights (occurring on the 1st Saturday of August & the first Saturday of October, respectively) are extra special. These events bring out the whole city to view the galleries’ new exhibitions, antique shops’ latest offerings, have a few drinks & schmooze. Unlike the regular monthly opening receptions, this is when the galleries display their crème de la crème. It is quite a grand affair; besides the art on display, in many areas, there are terrific live music performances for the crowds, wine and other cocktails are available at most of the venues…and all of this is FREE and open to the public! As the Crescent City begins to take its first few baby steps into fall, our annual art night out, is just around the corner on Saturday, October 1, 2011 from 6-9pm.
There are two main drags where Art for Arts’ Sake occurs; the Warehouse Arts District (primarily along Julia St.) & further uptown along the Garden District portion of Magazine You’ll find a wide variety of fine art within The Warehouse Arts Districts, from the stretch of galleries along Julia St. to Ogden Museum of Southern Art on Camp St. Just opposite the Ogden, the Contemporary Arts Center, or as locals simply call it, the CAC, also hosts a happening party from 6pm-midnight, however, the CAC’s party is $10 per person. Meanwhile, uptown along Magazine St., visitors can stroll from one art gallery to the next, with stops in between at high-end boutiques, antique stores, and jewelry shops. There are plenty of options to delight your eyes and keep you entertained for the evening.
