courtesy of the artist and projects + gallery
Dario Calmese, "No. 155"
Sun Xun: Time Spy | February 16–August 12
China's most prominent artist has a fascinating art practice: He combines the ancient art of woodcuts with digital technology, using film as his “printing” matrix. The exhibit Time Spy includes both video (with 3-D glasses!) and a suite of physical woodblocks used to create the work. Of his work, The Telegraph recently wrote, "Reconstruction of the Universe, which premiered in Miami during Art Basel, will enhance his reputation further as one of the most exciting artists to emerge not just from China, but from anywhere." Free. Saint Louis Art Museum, 1 Fine Arts, slam.org.
Dario Calmese: Amongst Friends. Opening Reception | February 16–March 31
Raised in North City and now based in New York, Calmese wasn’t necessarily looking for a model and muse when he crossed paths with socialite Lana Turner; he was just looking for hats for a grad school project, and Turner’s collection was on view every Sunday morning at their shared house of worship, Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem. But it went far beyond hats: The force of her style and her commitment to beauty led him to an entirely new project, centered around Turner and her clothes. Now, he returns home for his first U.S. solo exhibit, a series of gorgeous black-and-white photos of Turner. (Read more about the exhibit here.) Free. Reception 5–8 p.m. Fri, artist talk 1 p.m. Sat. projects + gallery, 4733 McPherson, projects-gallery.com.
Rufus Wainwright | February 16
Wainwright was born to play music. He's the son of folksingers Kate McGarrigle and Loudon Wainwright. Over the years, his brand of melancholic, piano-driven indie-folk (and, of course, his distinctive voice) has not only won him critical acclaim but a huge, loyal fan base. Wainwright is also a prolific collaborator; he's worked with a diverse spectrum of artists, including the Pet Shop Boys, David Byrne, Joni Mitchell, and Elton John. On Friday, he'll collaborate with the St. Louis Symphony in a program featuring Wainwright's originals, including such classics as "Cigarettes and Chocolate Milk." $45–$80. 7:30 p.m. Powell Hall, 718 N. Grand, slso.org.
Chinese New Year | February 17
This Saturday, The Magic House celebrates the Chinese New Year (the year of Wu Xu, or the Wood Dog). The event includes kung fu lessons, Chinese face-painting, a Lion Dance performance with colorfully clad performers, and more. Free with admission. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. The Magic House, 516 S. Kirkwood, magichouse.org.
My Bloody Valentine's | February 17
No, not the band or the movie. This one-night-only event hosted by The Darkness is geared toward couples whose interests are more horror- than romance-themed. (Or perhaps the two can co-exist?) The attraction's been newly renovated, so it's also a way to get a sneak peek of what's coming this fall. One thing's for sure: Zombie laser tag will make for a memorable date night. (And you can book a time to visit the St. Louis Escape Room, located next door.) $29.95. The Darkness, 1525 S. 8th, scarefest.com.
Check out SLM's calendar for other happenings, including Pro Bull Riders at Scottrade Center, Joe Russo's Almost Dead and Rebelution at The Pageant, Dennis DeYoung at River City Casino, Dar Williams at Delmar Hall, Morpho Mardi Gras at the Butterfly House, Orchid Nights at the Missouri Botanical Garden, Greg Fitzsimmons at Helium Comedy Club, Blackberry Smoke at The Pageant, Upstream Theater's Infected at Kranzberg Arts Center, The St. Louis Music Festival at Chaifetz Arena, and more.
