I realize there's an art forum, but I wanted this to get some added exposure as the event draws closer. It's a great event and every year there has been some amazing work. Even if you're not a big art fan, it'd be a great way to immerse yourself in the allusive "creative class", check out the area where a major residential development is planned, hear some good music, and just all around enjoy the fruits of OKC's growing young art community.

http://www.ovac-ok.org/artinfomomentum.html

With fire eaters, an interactive art room, the sounds of local bands, and experimental art by young artists, Momentum: Art Doesn’t Stand Still 2006 will be the buzz this January. Organized by the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition (OVAC), Momentum is scheduled to open 8pm on Saturday, January 14, 2006 at 111 North Harrison in the Triangle District, Downtown Oklahoma City.

With music by The Hex, Ghosts of Monkhood and The Invisible Snakes, short films, performance, traditional and not-so-traditional 2-D and 3-D art, the scene will undoubtedly be filled with energy and excitement. A new temporary Momentum tattoo will be part of the crowd roar. OVAC Executive Director Julia Kirt says of the event, “You never know what you’ll find around the corner at Momentum—new music, amazing art, digital projections, poets and so much more. Viewers keep moving and stay curious throughout the event.”

Curated by Steve Liggett, Artistic Director for Living Arts in Tulsa and Dr. Susan Caldwell, University of Oklahoma Art History Professor , this exhibition is an opportunity for young artists to have their work in the spotlight. Last year more than 90 artists from across the state were juried into the show and that number is expected to grow again this year. The event has truly gained momentum with more than 1100 in attendance in 2005; OVAC expects 1500 in 2006.

The event kicks off at 7 pm with a preview party for major donors. A cash bar and Deep Fork Grill hors d’oeuvres will be in place for this milder side of the event.

The artwork from Momentum will remain on display and open to the public January 15-19 from 5-8 pm. Tickets are on sale in advance for $7 right here online, by phone 405.232.6991 or at Electro Lounge, Velvet Monkey 1, Velvet Monkey Too or GuestRoom Records or $10 at the door. For more information visit www.ovac-ok.org; see images and talk to artists at www.myspace.com/momentumokc.