A Night at the Movies, Art on Tap Style

There was no red carpet, no klieg lights, and no one arrived by limousine. But there was plenty of excitement on Sunday, October 18, when Art on Tap Chicago premiered our festival compilation to a packed house.

Setting the stage

We started planning the evening several months ago, after an enthusiastic go-ahead from Michael Cunningham, manager of Solemn Oath's Still Life in Logan Square. Solemn Oath already felt like home: it was the setting for our second film, featuring artist Lauren Foit, and for a well-attended community collage event.

For the premiere, director Chad Rispalje crafted an 11-minute compilation that brought together some of the best moments from our six individual films.

A full house

We were delighted that five of the six featured artists could join us: Lexi Alvarado, Cori O'Connor, Lauren Foit, Ken R. Klopack and Joe Sikora. Lexi, Cori, Lauren and Ken also brought some of their art to share. From the Art on Tap Chicago team, Chad, director of photography Ryan Kolegas and producers Jon Hearon and John Mjoseth were on hand.

A few days before the event, Block Club Chicago published an article about Art on Tap Chicago by reporter Ariel Parrella-Aurell. Several guests told us they decided to come to the free screening after reading it.

Between 70 and 80 people watched the film. Afterward, our artists and one of our filmmakers took part in a Q&A moderated by producer Jon Hearon. It was a lively discussion, sharpened by excellent questions from the audience. Artist and Art City director Joe Sikora observed how much more powerful the film was on the big screen than on a phone.

What stayed with us

Two things resonated. This was the first time our artists had met one another, and the chemistry was immediate. We were also struck by how many attendees connected with the idea of "third places": the neighborhood spots, beyond home and work, where community happens.

We're already looking forward to our next event, likely in early December. Stay tuned for details.