By Rebecca Marx
Photo Credit Scott Mahlmann
Every year NE Minneapolis puts its artistic soul out on display in May, 2016 is no different with more venues than ever participating in the madness.
While there are a great many venues that are well known, Rift thought we’d serve you best by introducing you to a lesser known Art-A-Whirl venue: Grandapalooza. Rift spoke to its founder Scott Mahlmann about just what he has in store for Grandapalooza 2016. One thing is for sure, Grandapalooza won’t have you milling through a warehouse sipping chardonnay, no it won’t.
Rift: Grandapalooza is a bit different from other studios and venues that host Art-A-Whirl festivities, tell us how it all came about?
SM: Our concept is really quite simple. When Art-A-Whirl first started many in the neighborhood felt intimidated. What we have tried to do is show that there is nothing unapproachable about art. It is not all about snoot, wine and cheese or any of the other misinterpretations people may have about it. What we have tried to accomplish is to take the studio and plop it into the yard. The caliber of our artists is just the same as you will see at any of the studios around town. We have just taken down the walls.
Rift: How long have you been involved, and do you ever feel completely mad as the event approaches each year?
SM: I think it helps having a slight screw loose to start off with to keep sanity. This will be our 6th year being an Art-A-Whirl venue. What I have discovered is just like any other “Marriage” the buildup for the ceremony can at times be a little enervating. But once it’s done you sit back and say “Wow did that really just happen”
Rift: What keeps Grandapalooza alive?
SM: Without a doubt the people. Friends, Neighbors and those that come to visit are what make this event what it is. Sadly, I hope this is not going to be our last year at this location. Corporate Greed has been trying to buy into NE and has recently purchased land behind us. Their plan if not stopped is to build a 6 story building of so called affordable housing (if $1000 for a studio apt. is considered affordable). This is something that will forever change the landscape and feel of the neighborhood.
Rift: Oh Dear! We’d hate to see the vibes of the neighborhood change-what kind of vibe does Grandapalooza give off?
SM: Good vibrations Only. We are a Family Friendly Freaker’s ball. Those things that separate people in the real world do not apply. The Art and Music are all that matter.
Rift: Highlight of Grandapalooza past?
SM: I think the highlight is that somehow we manage to pull it off every year. To pick just one is impossible. Each person that visits leaves with their own thoughts and memories about our event. That highlight maybe in the form of a great new Art purchase or inspiring new personal information. Or for some it could be witnessing someone Tibetan throat sing with a pineapple duct taped to their head. We like to keep a wide range open for highlights.
Rift: What kind of shenanigans do you expect this year?
SM: Art
Rock
Tacos
This year we will be offering over 20 Artists in the yard including a Taco Truck, Tarot Card Reading, Healing Touch Body Work, Face Painting, and Festival Hair Braiding.
On our stage will be Offering 23 Bands. Techno, Classic Rock, Punk, Country, Folk, Bluegrass. Hopefully a little something for everyone to find entertaining.
Rift: What will make 2016’s Grandapalooza the BEST ever?
SM: That will be determined by the people. What we do is offer the blank canvas. Every participant seems to paint this event with an individual color and their very BEST. Amazingly each year they somehow manage to outdo the last. It really is something unique and special. We have so much talent in this town. We are just happy to be able to offer a venue spot that allows those that may not be able to participate in Art-A-Whirl a spot to shine.
Rift: Is Grandapalooza Art-A-Whirl’s best kept secret?
SM: SHHHHHHHHhhhhhhhhh many of life’s best kept secrets are in plain sight.
*Grandapalooza is 1308 Grand St, NE Mpls
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