Modernist Missionary

The exhibition runs through May 16. First Street Gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday, noon to 5 p.m., and is located at 422 First St., Eureka. Visit humboldt.edu/~first for more information.

Wondering what’s up behind the papered windows in the old Humboldt Surf Co. space? True, things don’t look much different from the outside - Matt Beard’s beloved mural preempts much imagining a new business in that space — but a transition is, in fact, underway. Trinidad-based Ironside Metal Works is both opening the Ironside Gallery and allowing the Humboldt Arts Project (humboldtartsproject.com) to utilize the space for this Friday’s Arts! Arcata. Humboldt Arts Project has been throwing art parties in the Feuerwerker Building for months now — expect more of the same eclectic mix of local art and dance troupes, all of which represents buildup to the first-ever Humboldt Arts Festival.

The festival encompasses two days, May 15 and 16, and four blocks, running from Ninth to 11th and from I to K streets. Humboldt Arts Project founder and festival organizer Vico Hernandez has been “working feverishly” with Arcata Main Street to bring the group’s plans to fruition. Coinciding with HSU’s graduation weekend, the festival will showcase what else Humboldt has to offer, including music, crafts and local cuisine: Humboldt Brewery, Robert Goodman Wines and the Jambalaya are all in as sponsors so far. Highlights include receptions at all locations, a “massive” outdoor sculpture garden and a central stage with samba dancers, fire-spinners, contemporary ballet and tribal dance.

To participate in or donate to the Humboldt Arts Festival, visit humboldtartsfestival.com. “We need volunteers!” Vico said. Like the Humboldt Arts Project shows, artwork acceptance is a matter of course. Those events have featured up to 60 artists, and Vico estimates about 300 artists have been involved so far in one way or another.

“Artists coming together benefits everybody,” Vico said. He hopes to redefine Arcata as an artists’ community. “Big ideas start with small conversations — this could get even bigger.” Although he says he never envisioned himself at the helm of transforming Arcata’s art scene, Vico admits he’s loving doing it. “It’s been worth the journey,” he said. “Putting it all together has been really fulfilling. If we keep doing what we can, the arts community will continue to grow and flourish.”

Arts! Arcata runs from 6 to 9 p.m., Friday, April 9. For a complete guide to exhibits, refer to listings elsewhere in the Journal or go to artsarcata.com.

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