If you've been on the internet anytime in the last 24 hours, then you know it's quite the time to be alive. For those looking to continue the #resistance against the powers that be, there's a street art show taking over RCNSTRCT Studio on Melrose Avenue starting next weekend to help inspire your next move — and it involves playing with fire (figuratively, of course).
DTLA-based Think Tank Gallery and artist/activist Phil America are joining forces with artisanal Mezcal maker El Silencio to create We Stole The Fire, a four-day interactive art event starting Saturday, August 4 that "will place participants at the front-line of the revolution to reclaim our imaginations from the modern gods of government and media," per a release. It's all part of a three-part, two-act series that has already dropped short-term "street interventions" in DTLA at 925 Wall Street — just a block away from Think Tank's digs — featuring ABARS and Alec Demarco.
Inspired by the revolution-sparking role of fire, the exhibit will include a guerrilla installation of an interactive abstract street sculpture designed to "steal the flames of advertising from the public space around it" by inviting passersby to draw on the piece.
The fiery-themed exhibit also promises a Molotov cocktail vending machine that'll be dispensing El Silencio's bottles redesigned by America and Dino Nama for just $5 (don't worry, they're non-functional "art objects"), a newspaper vending stand (made famous in renowned street artist Shepard Fairey and photographer JR) that will sell and fill hand-carved Zippo lighters, and finally, a group show featuring the works of over 20 artists. The exhibit is designed to"be enjoyed in an episodic manner, but the greatest impact will hit for those who catch all three and also attend the final art show."
Saturday's grand opening bash takes place from 6 to 11pm; while the 21+ reception is free, there'll also be a VIP preview ($150 per ticket) where you can mingle with the artists, enjoy a cocktail hour, and get exclusive access to all of the works before everyone else. The soirée will be followed by an open-to-the-public gallery Sunday, August 5 to Tuesday, August 7 (11am to 5pm daily).
Art collectors who can't wait 'til the unveiling of the show can score those Molotov cocktails in advance for $55 at Think Tank's online shop; they'll be donating a large sum of proceeds to Everytown.
Into it? RSVP for Wednesday's free opening party or buy preview tickets (a portion of proceeds will benefit nonprofit orgs Morphing Creative Minds and Everytown) online here.
RCNSTRCT STUDIO
7400 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90046
