‘Model Citizen’ raises awareness of Richmond artists

Christine Billard

Contributing Writer

Gallery5’s First Friday exhibition was comparable to any standard Richmond house party: Smokers and stumbling art-goers surrounded the entrance, hundreds meandered throughout the two-story building listening to live music, and enjoying plenty of PBR to accompany the arts.

Two bands, Les La Britanica and Jan and Dan played live for a constantly packed audience of dancers. The downstairs not only offered music but also refreshments. The battle to get up and down the stairs didn’t negatively affect the night as people moved back and forth between the live music and the fashion exhibit held upstairs.

Gallery5 hosted a silent auction of “The Artists in Exile: Forgotten Iraqi Refugees in Syria.” The collection featured 20 Iraqi refugee artists who have since relocated to Syria to avoid the widespread violence that resulted from U.S. invasion in 2003. The works had sign-up sheets for patrons to openly write bids. While some more expensive pieces had suggested prices of around $500, many had no suggestion—making it an affordable auction for students with pieces being sold for as little as $35.

The Cherrybomb DJs loudly entertained the ears, and live models entertained the eyes in Gallery5’s first annual “Model Citizen” exhibit. It was disappointing to only see three live models in mediocre dresses, however the layout of the gallery, the fashion photography and the local vendors, made up for the lack of garments.

Many parts of the gallery were creatively staged closets, with shelves containing fashion accessories and hangers holding several photographs of unique fashionistas from throughout the VCU and Richmond community. Professional fashion photography decorated the walls depicting everything from quirky and cute to haute couture models.

The primary goal of “Model Citizen” was to raise awareness of locally owned businesses, student design work and Richmond fashion. There were multiple vendors—each selling personal, handcrafted jewelry, accessories, clothing and even henna tattoos by Helen Rogers, a Mehndi artist. Among many in this eclectic mix of fashion, Dear Amelia sold her hand-made, cloth flowers meant for “the nostalgic at heart,” adorning headbands, shirts and charms. Her work is usually sold at Rumors on North Harrison Street.

Right Paw, Left Paw sold crocheted stuffed-animals, fruits and vegetables with faces a.k.a. “smilie happy foodies.” These happy bananas, pears, watermelons, and carrots had catnip or rattles inside to make fun play toys for animals or children.

Ann Drewing’s Dream Spiral Art Jewelry was also for sale. She describes her work as “modern organic, art-metal” and is made from the various materials of copper, wood, recycled metal and jewels. This diverse group of local business owners were of all ages, races, and genders. No theme could categorize them as whole, much like the nature of Richmond itself.