17 minute read
The Blank Canvas: Interzone Art Center Goes Public
"Legal Tender" Opening Reception
by Dakota Parks
Tucked into the historic Brownsville neighborhood on North V Street, the building that houses Interzone Art Center dates back to 1955. Over the years, the nearly 3,000 sq. ft. building has housed a variety of people: the Brownsville Post Office, a hardware store, a pharmacy, a digital media education school, a seafood restaurant—and now an
art center. Six months ago, a fluctuating group of Pensacola artists set out to construct an “artist-run space.” Artist-run spaces are facilities operated by artists instead of private owners or local governments. These spaces give artists the freedom of curating their own exhibits, hosting experimental events and collaborating as a group for programming.
Local artist and figurehead for Interzone, Matt Pham, has wanted to open a community art space in Pensacola for the last ten years. Pham has worked as a freelance graphic designer, a talent booker for Sluggo’s and the art director/marketing coordinator at the Pensacola Museum of Art. His artist medium gravitates towards social practice art—art that engages human interaction and social discourse.
“This space is really a response to a need that we have felt in the community. This isn’t a business, so we don’t have employees or anyone getting paid. Everything being done here is based on volunteerism,” said Pham. “My name might be on the lease, but I couldn’t have done this without my friends and the art community. It’s been about 20 or 25 people of all ages and aspects of life in and out helping. The priority for us is making space for artists, and that extends to performances, musicians, classes and workshops—anything people want to do to share their work.”
Space, as Pham explained, isn’t cheap though. Interzone went through six months of constructions and bills still have to be paid to keep the community space afloat. Money is a stressful subject for the artists involved in the project. While Interzone is staying afloat through the resident artist rental workspace in the back half of the building, donations at events and a soon-to-be artist cooperative, they are still actively crowdfunding. One of the first exhibits in the space, “Legal Tender” was created in juxtaposition to this anxiety about money.
“So much of the art that we make is about the current moment in the artist’s lives: what is taking up the most of their energy, time and brain space. For me, it’s been money. I feel like I’ve been jolting up in the middle of the night and yelling,
‘money!’ I really just wanted to take the anxiety out of it for a moment and turn it into an object that we could play with and make art with” said Pham.
Creating an inclusive art space free of gatekeeping is one of the most important aspects to Interzone. Pham explained that while they have a number of events in the works right now, they’re hoping to put out a call for curators and programmers soon, so that the community can decide what it wants to do with the space. Another unconventional way of doing this, is by creating a domino-effect of curating where artists can invite and curate other artists into an exhibit. The artists at Interzone are also working with community activists to ensure that the space is intentionally inclusive to the community and not whitewashed.
“If you look historically at art spaces, artists find these buildings that have cheap rent because that’s all they can afford. We have to understand the logistics of a group of white artists moving into Brownsville, which is disproportionately a black neighborhood,” explained Pham. “This is a neighborhood building—we can’t separate ourselves from these houses; they’re in the DNA and history of this space. It also tends to be a trend that when artists get together to create
these spaces, they tend to be white artists. Deciding to be an artist is a privileged decision—spending that much money on a career where you will make no money— some people just can’t take that risk. We have this presumption that everyone values art, and that there needs to be space and money spent on art,
Eugene Broyles Under Pressure Releif Print
From the "Legal Tender" Exhibtion
but that’s not true. That’s also privileged thinking.”
While the word “gentrification” floats around the air, the artists working on the project are doing everything they can to make the art center reflect the entire community—not just white artists. Family homes surround the art center building, and people from the neighborhood have interacted with the space by coming to talk to artists, hanging out and seeing the artwork. Others in the neighborhood have voiced their concerns that no one should ever charge money to see art—hence the decision to take donations at events rather than charge admission and keep those that can’t afford it out of the space. As the space continues to evolve, it will evolve with the needs of the community.
So far, Interzone has hosted a pop-up show with their resident artists, put out a call for works for the “Legal Tender” show and even hosted a dance party. For the future, they’re already working with theatre production companies and film festivals for renting out the space. They’re continuing to generate ideas for several upcoming exhibits and shows. Pham explained that there are so many ways the community can get involved with Interzone: come to the events, donate if you can, check out the GoFundMe, come volunteer on the weekend, and if you’re an artist, respond to calls for work and put your art on display.
“We really want to be a general use art space. If anyone in the area has had an idea that was too big, or they didn’t have the opportunity, space, or time to do it, we’d be more than welcoming to host them—whether that’s through collaboration or space rental. Everyone deserves a space to feel comfortable, show what they create and just be who they are,” said Pham.
To keep up with Interzone and their upcoming events, follow @interzone.pensacola on Instagram and Interzone Pensacola on Facebook. Check out their GoFundMe: www. gofundme.com/f/interzone-pensacola-art-space. If interested in getting involved hands-on, contact them about volunteering on the weekends.
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5 QUESTIONS WITH MORGAN WALKER BY SEAN WILLIAMS CREATIVES
Morgan Walker is an artist dedicated to showing her love of all things animal, fun and creative in each of her vibrant creations. With a penchant for dogs, Morgan adds a colorful, cartoony flair to each of her drawings. Morgan is active on her Instagram, @mewdesi, where she regularly takes on commission work for dogs and animals of all shapes and sizes. Morgan was born and raised in Fort Walton Beach and sticks around Pensacola where her job at Innisfree Hotels keeps her connected with the downtown and beach communities. For her, working with fellow creatives keeps her focused on improving her own style and sharing it with others.
What has been your main inspiration for drawing? What draws you to your particular style? In addition to dogs, I was fascinated by the natural world and obsessed with Zoobooks and National Geographic as a child. Around the same time, like most kids in the 90’s, I found myself drawn into the world of animated films like the Disney classics, early Dreamworks films and so on that created stories revolving around creatures with character and worlds filled with a sense of adventure. These interests followed me throughout the years, and I’ve found that I love creating pieces with that same sense of playfulness and whimsy while also intertwining my interests of plants and animals. I currently have an ongoing series that combines cuisine and animals to create a world of “crEATures” that simply started out as an exercise (thanks Shelley Henseler!), but has become one of my favorite projects to date that showcases this!
I’ve also been influenced through pop culture which is where my current series called “Ruffengers” was born from. I aimed to challenge myself to draw different dog breeds, but wanted to bring my interest of comic books and movies to the project. Naturally, I came up with the idea to draw my favorite superheroes as canines! Quite the parody, I know! But it has allowed me to explore a new drawing style and develop skills in character design. It’s my biggest set of drawings to date, and I hope to release the next set of illustrations soon! What inspired you to draw so many dogs? Drawing dogs is the outcome of growing up with a passion for animals dating back to when I was a little girl! I grew up in a “dogs rule” household where Shih Tzus ran the roost, and anything with paws was my favorite thing. In 2018, I worked with a great friend and fellow artist, Rachel Hogue, where we painted and donated a photo-op for the Pensacola Humane Society’s Barktoberfest event. We illustrated a wall of Halloween-esque portraits, and this kicked off my recent spree of drawing canines! I’ve found that dogs have the ability to bring so much love and joy to someone’s life. Capturing that in fun, festive illustrations is something I enjoy immensely.
Are you self-taught, or did you attend art school? How long have you been working on art? I attended the University of West Florida and have a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design where I honed my skills in branding and illustration, but I have been drawing ever since I could hold a crayon. I get the creative gene from my dad and both of my grandmothers and was blessed to grow up in a family and community that was always supportive of my artistic endeavors. I remember always making custom birthday cards for friends using whatever art supplies I had and drawing characters on banners for high school football games. I eventually found my way to my art and design career at UWF after switching majors from Environmental Science to Graphic Design.
What is your creative process like? How long does a typical drawing take you? What kind of tools do you use for drawing? My creative process has changed over the last few years, especially since I acquired my iPad Pro. I typically worked in Photoshop and still love that program, but have also discovered Procreate where I can draw directly on my iPad screen to create an illustration. I still love to sketch directly on paper, though! Having a physical book of all of your ideas is super satisfying, and I love the act of working and reworking a sketch. After I finish a sketch, I usually take a picture and place it within Procreate where I will move onto line art, color exploration, and then work in my details using brushes that differ depending on the project. Most of the brushes I use are from Retrosupply online, and I can’t recommend them enough! A typical illustration can take anywhere from 2 hours to a few days, depending on its level of detail or how much I’m wanting to experiment with the piece and subject matter.
How do you “market” your art? For example, do you take commissions or do freelance work? I do take commissions and accept freelance work! I have passions in both graphic design and illustration, so I love exploring jobs in both of those fields as part of my business. I especially cherish the jobs where the two combine forces such as with branding, t-shirt design, packaging and board game design. I also hope to take on more pet portrait commissions this year! I have plans to both open an online store selling prints and enamel pins and sell at conventions and local markets. Another way my art is put out into the world is through my job with Innisfree Hotels where I create works for the hospitality industry and local communities such as the From the Ground Up Garden.
DOG-FRIENDLY DOWNTOWN
Pensacola is home to many pet-friendly places. But with any city, there are laws dictating pets in public and private property. Recently, a bill floated through the Florida Senate that created backlash among dogowners. House Bill 243 stated that any non-service animals would no longer be allowed into dining establishments or places of business. While the bill wasn’t passed, it reminded Pensacola of laws that haven’t been strictly enforced.
The Market on Palafox Street, open every Saturday, even put up signs during the event that strictly said, “Sorry, No Dogs Allowed.” While it appears the city of Pensacola is no longer turning a blind eye to previous laws restricting pets in public spaces, dog owners shouldn’t be wary of taking dogs out on the town. As said before, Pensacola is home to many pet friendly restaurants, activities, bars and breweries.
However, due to growing concerns of COVID-19, these places can be enjoyed after we’re done social distancing. – by Josh McGovern
Downtown Nightlife It’s difficult to mention just one restaurant and destination in downtown Pensacola. While many places and shops don’t allow dogs to come inside, it’s hard to ignore the numerous outdoor seating areas on the sidewalks and under the cover of canopies. If leashed, a night downtown with your dog can be a fun experience. Grab a bite, get some ice cream and share a waffle cone with your dog. Take a walk down to Palafox Pier and have a look out at the water.
O’Riley’s Pub One of the few Irish Pubs in Pensacola, O’Riley’s is an exciting place to be on game days. O’Riley’s atmosphere isn’t limited to inside. In fact, outside seating is often packed, with numerous tables and TVs on the sidewalk. Bringing a dog won’t separate owners from the excitement of the pub. Put a team spirited bandana on your dog’s collar, drink a Dublin Donkey and enjoy the outside atmosphere that makes O’Riley’s a popular bar and restaurant in downtown Pensacola.
Brew Ha Ha Brew Ha Ha: the brewery covered in beautiful art. Dog owners will recognize Brew Ha Ha from the postcard mural on the building’s side. Brew Ha Ha goes above and beyond and features a sandy dog porch for your dogs to play while you have lunch and drink a beer. It doesn’t get much better than this for you and your dog.
Perfect Plain One of few breweries listed, Perfect Plain features a designated dog patio where owners can bring their dogs and sit and drink while looking out at Garden Street. A night out with friends can be accompanied by extra guests that walk on all fours without having to worry about not getting in with your dog.
Pensacola Bay Brewery No better way to wash down barbecue than with a cold beer. Pensacola Bay Brewery offers petfriendly seating areas, both indoor and outdoor, and water bowls for pets. Pensacola Bay Brewery is located in the historic downtown, easy for walking with your dog, and is across the street from a park where you can bring your dog, as long as it is leashed and you clean up after it.
Emerald Republic Brewing Co. If you're looking for an open space off the beaten path, Emerald Republic Brewing Co. is the place for you. Emerald Republic has a gated courtyard, so you won't have to worry about your pup running into danger. You can relax in a hammock with your
Oar House There’s nothing quite like sitting at a wooden bar, polished to a shine, watching boats coast by on the water. Oar House captures a notable Florida on-the-water dining experience and allows dogs. Ask the waiter for a dog bowl and they’ll most likely give your dog refreshing water on a hot day.
Dog House Deli Dog House Deli serves delicious gourmet hotdogs and sandwiches with four dog-friendly tables outside the restaurant. Dog House has ‘dog’ in the name, and welcomes pets at any hour. Pet owners can enjoy lunch or dinner with the company of their dog beside them.
HO2 Pensacola HO2 offers a different kind of entertainment for tourists. At HO2, you can rent pontoon boats, paddle boards and kayaks. What makes HO2 pet friendly is it allows owners to bring their dogs along for any adventures. Although, some dogs might tip the paddle
Sound and games to play, allows pets in the outside dining area. The staff is more than willing to provide water to your dog.
board at the first sight of a fish, so your best option may be going for a kayak or boat rental, something a little more secure for your dog.
Pensacola Beach Dog Park (East and West) Hearing Pensacola Beach
brings to mind sandy white beaches and tepid, calm water. Locals know these iconic white beaches, when they are barefoot and ready to swim. Designated on two ends of Pensacola Beach, the East and West dog parks allow open space for dogs to experience Pensacola’s beaches
with their owners. While your dog must remain leashed, the designated dog areas provide doggie bags and wipes, as well as trash bins.
Red Fish Blue Fish One dog, two dogs, all are welcome at Red Fish Blue Fish. The scenic restaurant known for fresh food and relaxed lawn seating with a view of the Santa Rosa Hot Spot Barbecue Pulling up to Hot Spot Barbecue, you and your dog will smell smoker cooking up some of the best barbecue in Pensacola. Keep yourself from drooling, your dog won’t be able to. Another pet friendly spot close to downtown but off the beaten path. Summer days aren’t the same without the smell and taste of barbecue, but as hot as they can be, water and shade are provided to dogs when outside at the picnic tables.
Spring Into Fresh Ideas April Classes & Events
AHI TUNA: SEARED LOIN, POKE & STEAK CUT DEMO APR. 8 – 6 PM $65
LUNCH & LEARN: AVOCADO: PANKO FRIED, EGG BAKED, & SHRIMP SALAD APR. 10 – NOON $25
CAST IRON RIBEYE & CRAB CAKE APR. 13 – 6 PM $65
BEEF WELLINGTON DEMO APR. 15 – 6 PM $65
HANDMADE PASTA APR. 20 – 6 PM $60
SEARED SCALLOPS & HERB BUTTER APR. 22 – 6 PM $65
LUNCH & LEARN: TRADITIONAL QUICHE & SALAD W/ FRENCH STYLE VINAIGRETTE APR. 24 – NOON $25
HANDMADE SUSHI APR. 29 – 6 PM $65
Class sizes are limited, and are demonstration only. We are committed to the health and safety of everyone.
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