RAW: Natural Born Artists Extravaganza Showcase of Talent

RAW showcased an amazing array of visual and performing artists at the Five Sixty- a dynamic club at 560 Seymour.  RAW is a platform for all artists and is an independent, international art organization for artists by artists.  On January 8th, from 7:00 - until all hours, we were treated to Art, Fashion, Music, Film, Photography, Dance, Stand Up and so much more. This was truly a demonstration of the excellent artistic, creative talent we have in Vancouver. There were two floors and multiple spaces and the whole experience, from the registration, viewing, meet and greet, photo ops...every step of the way was engaging, organized and very crowd friendly.  I was excited to see the extraordinary work of Fariba Mirzaie, a Vancouver based,  award winning fashion and textile designer, whom I first met at the Silk Purse Gallery in West Vancouver. (Check out the post here)  This time, she presented two shows: Felt, Earth, Whisper and Garden of Eden.  Her clothes and accessories are very much based on the nature she photographs and collects, both locally and on her travels.  Her designs are intricately sewn and feature beautiful, natural colors, those that you see on a forest or beach walk.  You can see more at Gabbeh Gallery and you can find her at fariba@gabbeh.ca.

I loved that the lighting and sound were used effectively: you could see the performers on stage and hear the stand ups even over the music and animated discussions by everyone, there.  From the second floor balcony, you could view the displays on both floors.  Special note to Paul Shannon, Murals & More Décor, who not only paints beautifully but paints in multiple ways.  Note the art mat and my red boot on it.  Would love one on a wall, on a table or at my front door. 

I urge you to contact RAW and get on the mailing list so you can be part of this interactive, dazzling community.  Thanks RAW!  More information at RAWartists.org/vancouver. Also, check out Style By Fire's coverage of this event.