Mixed Media Welcome Mat In Allentown
Jim 'Cosmic' Collins moved away from Buffalo twelve years ago. He packed his bags and headed for Key West Florida in search of a hip and progressive art scene. So what's he doing back in Buffalo? "Key West is flat," Jim told me when I ran into him Tuesday evening. "By flat I mean that the creativity is missing. When you live in an area that 'doesn't need anything', artists tend to rest on their laurels. I came back in search of an art scene where the artists actually create and contribute to their surroundings." Jim has found just that in his new studio/gallery that opened in Allentown during the Allentown Art Festival weekend.
Since that time he has teamed up with artists the likes of Mark Freeland, Dan Mardana, Francis Keeble, Louisa Burnett, Greg Kuppinger, Dietrich Schifeling, Joseph Capuana, Frank V. Coppola and Scott 'Skitchy' Steele. Where do these artists show? In Cosmic's tricked-out gallery/garage along the Elmwood Strip. Located a couple doors from Cozumel, Gallery 141B (in back) has become the crash pad of talented artists who find the gallery's mixed media welcome mat both refreshing and inviting.
Upon first walking up the driveway, the first thing you can't miss is the parted theatrical curtain that welcomes you into the space. Chillax beats fill the room while directional spots illuminate the art-filled space dividers. Off to the left is what Cosmic refers to as his 'ultra-pad'; a lounge that boasts a few comfy sofas and chairs. This is where 'system control' for the flat screen and sound system is located. Cosmic is an indie film aficionado and wants 141B to fill a void as a sort of resident avant-garde video and performance destination. " I want this to be a place of interaction. I'd like to invite people to come see what I've set up here. Please come this Friday during the Allentown Gallery Walk. Or if you're heading out for Curtain Up!, be sure to stop by. I plan on hosting intimate gatherings throughout the week that will feature sound, film, video and theatrics. I sense an artistic groundswell in Allentown and am happy that I arrived when I did."
BRO readers might also recognize another gallery opening up in the neighborhood. Remember Steve Myers and Gatehouse Studio (featured in the print edition)? The studio was located on the second floor of the Elmwood Hotel footprint. Steve has found a new home on the block and is busy setting up what will be known as Gatehouse Gallery. We'll keep you posted on that. And don't forget that B. West Studio also opened their doors this past summer. Enjoy Curtain Up! and the Gallery Walk this weekend. Stop in to Gallery 141B and Cosmic will treat you to some sights and sounds at the 'Ultra-Pad'.
Cosmic is out of this world! His personality is welcoming and his gallery is inviting. I suggest everyone come, take a break from their hectic lives and take in the sites and sounds that are gallery 141B!