Allow yourself a moment of disappointment for the fact that this post does not concern actual spacecraft. Done? Okay, you can't feel bad anymore, because what SpaceCraft actually is, is a brand new non-profit aiming to pair artist-mentors with at-risk youth to create public art projects (no relation)—which, (I'm looking at you, interesting Portland artists) if well executed and received, could be pretty great. Plus, it's not like Portland public art could possibly get much worse, amirite? Anyhow, they're gearing up for their first fundraiser/open house, inviting potentially interested-in-being-involved artists and sundry supporters a chance to check out the Arts Equal Access Center (511 N Tillamook), a 6,000 sf warehouse space meant to be a hub for these various projects and an entry-point for the yoots to become involved, staying open till 9 in hopes of deterring other, more detrimental nighttime activities. I like that this isn't limited to small scale projects like painting; the idea is that the warehouse's 20-foot ceilings can house massive projects, and that kids can learn harder-core art-making skills like welding, woodworking, and glass. (Though painting is an option, including on the facility's walls, and it will also house a research library.) Anyway, back to the open house, which they're calling "Space Echoes": It's this Saturday, 4-11 pm, and for a mere $5 donation (those 18 and under can come for free) you get nine live bands (names I recognize: Serious Business and Vanimal) and they'll keep the BBQ going.

Here tis
  • SpaceCraft
  • Here 'tis