May 2013

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Q&A We sat down with emerging artist Erin Latham

How To...

Choose your summer festival

Summer Breeze The Norman staple returns

NORMAN OPEN STUDIOS Artists open their private studios to the public to showcase their artistic processes.

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From the editor Peace, Love & Goodwill Family Days at FJJMA Artist Q&A

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Luncheon on the Grass Book and Music Reviews Jazz with Larry Hammett Best of Art Walk Summer Breeze Open Artist Studios Geatches Studio Top 10 Calendar How To Photos of NWC Biennial the cover Photos of May Fair Arts Festival on Norman Open Studios photo by Benita Cloward

photo by Benita Cloward

from the editor’s desk

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my husband purchased me a sewing machine while many, like me, carve out space for — another creative endeavor I was itching to creativity in their private residences. get my hands on. He soon Though I suspect some day discovered my sewing efforts our spare room may be overrun did nothing to declutter our No matter the size by tiny creations of another sort, living areas.

I’ll always prioritize a corner of my of a space, every The only logical own — even if it’s just a desk or containment he could find creative person needs large chair — where I can make was a desk of my own, so put together crafts, read, write their own corner of art, we purchased the best our — whatever I want, to my heart’s meager budget could afford the world where wild content. in an effort to curb the No matter the size of a space, ideas and whimsical creative madness. every creative person needs their fancy are allowed own corner of the world where To say the least, it wasn’t as effective as he’d hoped, — even encouraged wild ideas and whimsical fancy are but he had the right idea, allowed — even encouraged — to — to run with great run with great abandonment. In taking his cues from ol’ abandonment.

Virginia, and providing me a that way, every facet of life can be new version of my very own explored, multiple times over. space.

For up-to-date information on Since then, my desk has N-town, like us on Facebook or moved into a spare bedroom, complete with my follow us on Twitter and Instagram. own closet, shelf and even a futon. I don’t have Have any suggestions for us? Comments? much time to develop the many concepts in my Praises? Give me a shout out at hcruz@ sketchbooks beyond the occasional wedding or normantranscript.com.

I’d love to hear from yyou. p baby shower gift, but that room — a space of my own — stands as a treasured symbol of my creative freedom.

It’s a concept not lost on many Norman artists who are showcasing their own creative spaces this month during Norman Open Studios, presented by the Norman Arts Council. Several of these artists have studios in corporate spaces,

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At the ripe old age of 23, I can easily say I’ve lived multiple lives, and I owe it all to creativity.

As a little girl, my mind was constantly spinning with stories and images — make believe, writing and art projects. I was a cowgirl in the rugged Wild West. I was a mermaid swimming in the depths of a blue, mysterious sea. I was a humble ruler over a beautiful kingdom. I even explored careers: teaching, medicine, marine biology, artist and you better believe I was the best pop singer of the decade.

The actual setting for most of these “lives” was simple: A bedroom in suburbia.

It was nothing fancy, but as Virginia Woolf has long emphasized, it was a room of my own — a place with no boundaries, limits or distractions. Anything was possible in my room.

While I was in college I earned myself both a bachelor’s and an Mrs. degree, permanent roommate included. It may come as no surprise that my husband wasn’t entirely appreciative of the jungle of papers, pencils, brushes, charcoal, scissors and textbooks that flourished in our small home, nourished by the climate of my journalism and art studies.

For our first Christmas as a married couple,

Publisher Terry Connor

Ad Director Debbi Knoll

Production Manager Rob Rasor

Executive Editor Andy Rieger

Advertising Represetatives Rebekah Collins Nick Sheats Kimberly Lehenbauer Lee Roberts Sherry Romack Marty Zumphe

Writers Hannah Cruz Briana Deaver Courtney Goforth Amber Hodge Doug Hill Caitlin Schudalla Mack Burke

Editor Hannah Cruz Layout Artist Kerry Friesen

Kerry Friesen Photographers Kyle Phillips Benita Cloward Jay Chilton

N-town is a monthly publication of The Norman Transcript, 215 E. Comanche St, Norman, OK 73070. (Phone: 405.321.1800). Letters or editorial contributions should be sent to: N-town, P.O. Drawer 1058, Norman, OK, 73070 or emailed to hcruz@normantranscript.com. N-town is not responsible for unsolicited submissions. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner, without permissions is prohibited. Address advertising inquiries to Debbi Knoll, 405-366-3554 or dknoll@normantranscript.com. N-town can be found online.

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peacelove love&goodwill Norman High graduate, Maggie McClure is featured in an upcoming concert benefitting students with handicaps.

by Courtney Goforth

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It’s all in the spirit of peace, love and goodwill. At least for Goodwill Industries of Central Oklahoma CEO Chris Daniels, putting on a locally star-studded music bill isn’t just for a night of good tunes.

Last year marked the first ever benefit concert, titled “Peace, Love and Goodwill,” for an abilities scholarship after 18 years of golf tournament fundraisers no longer seemed up to par.

A music concert seemed like something more people could enjoy than a round of golf, and after Daniels saw the positive reception of last year’s show, he decided to bring in even more bands for people to enjoy.

“I remember just kind of stepping back from that and watching it and looking at how happy the people were and how good it felt to be able to bring them that moment,” Daniels said.

“To be able to do that while generating money for the scholarship is pretty special.”

The scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior from Oklahoma that submits an essay response to “How my disability does not define me” and meets other qualifications such as a minimum GPA of 3.0, U.S. citizenship and has written documentation from a physician proving a disability. The scholarship can then be applied to a degree or certification at academically accredited institutions in the country.

Daniels said there is a fairly large population of Goodwill employees that have disabilities of their own, making this fundraiser and scholarship close to Goodwill staffs’ hearts.

“We try to feature local talent and then we try to keep the artists we bring in from outside of the state along the same music style,” Daniels said. “We have a staff that really enjoys music and are out there listening and trying to piece together people they think would be a good fit.”

One of those artists is Norman native Maggie McClure. Before she headed out to Los Angeles to pursue her music career she regularly played at venues around Norman. When McClure was asked to be a part of the Peace, Love and Goodwill show for the second time she was ecstatic to come home to Oklahoma for a charitable opportunity.

“I was actually asked to play the benefit concert last

year and it was an incredible experience and a huge success,” McClure said. “The other acts of the night were really great and it was just overall an awesome opportunity. I always have enjoyed being a part of events that help different charities and organizations and people in general.”

McClure’s silky vocals and piano skills have landed her music in the movie “Cowgirls N’ Angels,” Oprah Winfrey Network’s “Dr. Phil,” MTV’s “The Real World,” “Worst. Prom.

Ever.,” “The Hills” and “The City,” as well as CBS’s “The Young and The Restless.” The singer-songwriter has also scored herself a spot in FOX’s “Glee” star Matt Morrison’s new music video coming out in early June. McClure is about to launch a fan-funded campaign with Pledge Music that will hopefully raise $15,000 in 60 days to fund the recording and release of her new EP that would come out in the fall.

McClure’s husband Shane Henry is also on the bill for the night, along with another Norman musician and friend, Kyle Reid.

“Kyle and I have known each other a long time and I’ve always thought he was a great musician and really talented,” McClure said. “I am really excited to see what he has in store for the show because I actually haven’t heard him do his solo stuff before and I’m really excited to see how that is going to end up.”

Reid has received positive feedback from his last album “Sawdust in the Bed” and is now marking the Oklahoma music scene with his concoction of New Orleans-esque gypsy swing.

“It seemed like a good charity and opportunity to play music with people I respected,” Reid said. “Not to mention that I like Goodwill, so I thought it would be a good chance to support something that I appreciate. It’s also great to see Norman outside of Norman and I’m excited and honored to be involved.”

Other acts on the roster for the night include Grammy-nominated American singer-songwriter John Fullbright, Cory Chisel and the Wandering Sons and Matt Duke.

photo provided

Peace, Love & Goodwill, a benefit concert, takes place 6:30 p.m.

June 8 at the CocaCola Bricktown Events Center, 429 E. California Ave. in Oklahoma City.

Featured musicians include headliner John Fullbright as well as Tony Lucca, Cory Chisel & The Wandering Sons, Matt Duke, Shane Henry, Maggie McClure and Kyle Reid. The all-ages show is $30 in advance and $35 day-of.

Tickets are on sale now at stubwire.com.

Go to N-town’s Facebook page for a chance to win free tickets to the Peace, Love & Goodwill concert.

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familydays

By Caitlin Schudalla

The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art opens its doors to members of all ages with interactive programs and activities throughout the year, but even among a plethora of educational themes and age groups, Family Days stand out as a special occasion for adults and their children.

“We have a lot of students visit the museum on school trips but this is an opportunity for school-aged children to visit with their parents and siblings, feel ownership of the museum and show family members what they learn here,” FJJMA Curator of School and Family Programs Karen McWilliams said.

The museum’s next Family Day is 1-4 p.m. May 19 and centers on the museum’s current exhibition “Art

Interrupted: Advancing American Art and the Politics of Cultural Diplomacy.”

Family Day is free of charge.

Hands-on art activities inspired by works in the collection will be the main attraction for younger guests, and provided printed gallery guides for parents and older children will offer insight on works’ history.

“We want to make the collection accessible,” McWilliams said. “Looking at modern art itself we intend to make it fun for the kids to look at how artists experiment with new styles.”

“Art Interrupted” is a collection of modernist paintings from 1940s American artists, intended to showcase American contemporary talent fostered by freedom of speech. Driven by an anti-Communist

The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art seeks to make art approachable for all ages.

agenda, the project was halted when President Harry S. Truman and the U.S. Congress deemed it “un-American.”

“A lot of the information in this collection is political and adult-oriented but the idea is to show off what was cutting edge art at that time,” McWilliams said. “These works may not look shocking to us today, but this was very cutting edge for its day and documents American artists really getting in to abstract art and trying new material for the first time.”

Art supplies for the hands-on activities are provided by the Kirkpatrick Family Fund, and though the activity is designed for the museum’s younger guests, all family members are invited to participate and encourage their young

artists’ creative process.

“The fun thing about Family Day is seeing kids bring their older family members and witnessing them get the whole family involved. It’s what the event is about — students visiting with family, feeling ownership of the museum and making museum visits a part of their own creative process rather than just being spectators,” McWilliams said.

The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is located at 555 Elm Ave. Admission is free through the generous support of the University of Oklahoma Office of the President and the OU Athletics Department. For more information call 405-325-3272 or visit ou.edu/fjjma.

&A

Q

For emerging artist Erin Latham, art is both a way to manipulate her environment and celebrate nature.

Latham’s recent work explores the idea of environment by creating installations of scenes, like the kelp forest of prints she created as a 2013 Oklahoma Visual

with Erin Latham

Arts Coalition Momentum Spotlight artist.

The University of Oklahoma alumna completed a master’s in printmaking from Pratt Institute in New York City in 2012. Since then she has moved back to her hometown of Norman and is learning to take her own advice to

by Hannah Cruz

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grow where she’s planted.

How did you get involved Latham’s prints are appearing with art in the first place? at The Social Club, 106 S. Crawford Ave., beginning today as a part of I took some classes in high the 2nd Friday Circuit of Art. school, but really I was in to For more on Latham visit everything — I was in band and erinelatham.com. all that stuff, I was a swimmer. It really wasn’t until college that I got excited about art.

photos provided

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It’s more about bringing awareness to environments that actually exist and then calling into question why do we make these fake environments at natural history museums?

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How did you decide on the mediums that you studied?

I just naturally fell in to painting and now looking back at it I realize I really wasn’t a very good painter. (laughing) I took a silkscreen class with Curtis Jones at OU and really liked it.

Just the separation of layers — and that’s how I was painting anyway, was layering things up.

After that first silkscreen class I just really got excited about printmaking. But I really still liked painting so I double majored.

Then in graduate school I just focused on printmaking. That’s just what I like to do. And it’s predominantly relief printmaking, woodblocking now, some silkscreens.

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How did you get to the creative place you are now?

I saw on your website that nature is kind of your thing, how did you get to that place?

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In New York I just worked on all this stuff in different mediums but same subject matter and all printmaking mediums. Living in such an urban environment you miss — there’s not what we have in Oklahoma, there’s not open fields anywhere.

You have to drive hours to find that. I started watching all these documentaries about the earth and just really missing being in a less urban environment. I got obsessed with the idea of making this forest out of paper and creating this space that totally transforms the gallery.

Initially I wanted to grow it out of local plants I had been propagating, but it’s something that’s on the back burner now. It’s a project that I’d have to have a lot of money, more space and a few years to make happen.

I just started making prints

and deciding to turn it in to an environment. Since I’ve focused on natural environments it’s made my work that much better.

I needed to focus on something and have a direction. Otherwise it was going to be a lot of things that don’t come together.

time you should be spending in the studio. I’ve sold some things but I’m definitely not living off of the wages from the prints I make. I’m lucky because I have the ability to teach, so I’ve figured out how to seek out those venues where kids are being taught art.

I don’t know what I was What message do you want thinking it’d be like when I was people to get out of your younger. I got my master’s in art? order to do residencies, artist residencies, because I just wanted I’m interested in creating to travel and get paid to make art these environments, — so that’s the dream. whether they’re small scale or It’s totally possible, but you on two-dimensional paper, that have to work all the time on your sort of envelope the viewer work and promote your work. and take them to an imagined There’s money out there for landscape, an imagined place, but artists, there’s tons of money, you that reference the actual enough just have to be able to write and that they might be interested in sell yourself. seeking that out and trying to get It’s a lot different. I figured people more involved with the out that not only are you the actual environment. creator, you’re also the publicist I think I got really interested and the accountant, bookkeeping. in sustainability and the idea of You have to be able to wear really understanding what you many hats if you want to do this. use and where it came from. I’m also really interested in traditional What are your goals for the printmaking and how to make immediate future? that more sustainable because it’s really toxic and it can be pretty I actually have a residency wasteful as far as paper products. this summer in Scotland.

I guess right now I’m hoping I’m excited about that. The my work becomes completely project is going to be making sustainable and good for the small scale installations in the earth, but right now it’s more actual environment and then about bringing awareness to photographing them. environments that actually exist And then I have all these and then calling into question ideas about how to create why do we make these fake environments without actually environments at natural history creating environments, like using museums? Not that it’s a bad light and sound to trick you into thing, but the idea of when the feeling like you’re in spaces that actual exists why go see the fake? you’re not in.

Right now I’m just working on Has actually working as a some traditional prints for a show full-time artist matched your in May at the Social Club. It’s nice expectations of what it would be to go back to small scale and do like? some smaller things.

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It’s hard. A lot of it is rectifying money with the

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Luncheon grass

by Hannah Cruz

all photos provided

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Luncheon on the Grass is around the corner, 4-6:30 p.m.

June 2 at Lions Park, 450 S. Flood Ave., with an afternoon packed full of free arts activities.

In its fourth year, the event brings together the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, Jacobson House Native Art Center, Firehouse Art Center and the Norman Arts Council, as well as the Public Arts Board, to highlight a portion of Norman’s rich arts community.

This year’s event is scheduled in conjunction with the Performing Arts Studios’ annual Summer Breeze concert series.

The Gourds, an alternative country group from Austin, Texas, will be performing for free at 7 p.m.

Other entertainment includes music by DJ nexus. Free snow cones will also be provided.

See below for more details on what’s happening at this year’s Luncheon on the Grass.

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Firehouse Art Center The Firehouse Art Center is assisting children in painting on the park’s Children’s Art Wall. Firehouse Art Center Executive Director Douglas Shaw Elder said the rotating mural provides children of any age a great opportunity to engage in the arts.

“I’ve seen the joy on children’s faces and even seen kids standing confidently pointing to that wall, and everyone watching, and seeing the parents see the joy in the kids,” Elder said. “I really feel that our art wall, as much work as it is to swap it out and change it up, I really think that it’s one of the best free art activities for children in this community.”

Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is hosting a children’s gyotaku, Japanese for “fish print,” workshop, FJJMA Director of Education Susan Baley said.

Using realistic rubber fish replicas, children will make prints by rolling the replicas with block printing ink and applying paper.

Public Arts Board and Norman Arts Council The Public Arts Board and Norman Arts Council are assisting children in a project titled “Build A Tree,” PAB Chair Larry Walker said.

Families and children will cut, shape and paint recycled water and soda bottles to create leaves and blossoms that will be attached to a tree form to create a temporary public art piece.

The tree will be lighted during the Summer Breeze performance immediately following the completion of the project, and will be removed and taken to a recycling center the next day.

Jacobson House Native Art Center The Jacobson House Native Art Center is providing Native American flute music and drumming.

reviews books

by Amber Hodge

Book: Death Comes to Pemberly (2012, Vintage, reprint edition) Author: P.D. James Why you should read: The work of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” has been taken and reconstructed countless times over the years. Her beloved characters have been re-created in varying styles, with sequels focusing on the love of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy after their marriage, and have even been thrown into the spotlight in the form of zombies. But there is one such genre I never thought I would see crossed with an Austen story: mystery. Known as one of the greatest British crime fiction authors, P.D. James has weaved a familiar tale in to a story of crime and mystery.

Set in 1803, “Pemberly” picks up six years after the marriage of Elizabeth and Darcy.

Readers of Austen’s work will see familiar faces such as Mr. and Mrs. Darcy, the ever-irritating sister Lydia and her husband, Mr. Wickham, and many others. On the eve of the annual autumn ball, Lydia arrives screaming that her husband, who has been denied access to the property, has been murdered. A search for Wickham ensues, and he is found in the nearby woods alive.

The body of his friend Captain Denny, however, lies dead beside him. Wickham’s drunken mumbling and suspicious bloodstains leave the search group speechless. From there, the story moves on in an attempt to solve the crime. Sadly, despite the unique attempt to re-invent Austen’s characters, the story falls flat.

As a whole, the book is an interesting idea, but comes short of any real accomplishments and the characters aren’t quite as familiar as they should be. While it was nice to see a new take on a classic, and James’ writing is elegant and clear, there was no real pull from the story. And with its simplistic nature, the mystery and reason for the story, is meek at best. Fans of Austen and James might be thrilled to read another spin of Austen’s famous work, but those looking for an actual mystery would be wise to seek out a story better-suited to the genre.

by Briana Deaver

Book Name: Mirror Image (1990, Grand Central Publishing, first edition) Author: Sandra Brown Why you should read: Brown paints a realistic picture in, “Mirror Image” when narrator Avery Daniels finds herself in a sticky situation after surviving a devastating plane crash. When Avery is mistaken as another plane passenger, Carole Rutledge, Avery’s whole life is turned upside down in the wake of the crash. This story leads readers through a most extraordinary case of mistaken identity both riveting and frightening.

Avery awakens in a sterile hospital room with little recollection of the events that took place just days prior. The shock of tubes and casts encircling Avery’s body has her mind spinning. The real impact sets in as she realizes she has been identified as the surviving wife of a man she knows nothing of, Tate Rutledge. Avery learns she has been mistaken for the senatorial candidate’s wife, Carole, who was on the flight but did not survive.

The plot takes a dramatic twist when, in the middle of the night, Avery is visited by a mysterious man who exposes his plot to assassinate Tate. Avery is thrown into masquerading as a dead woman until she can uncover the identify of this riveting, mystery assassin.

When Avery is well again, she realizes how brutal Carole has been to her husband and neglected young child. When Tate’s campaign for senate takes off, she must be his pillar of strength while attempting motherhood for the first time to an emotionally unstable child.

Though I loved Brown’s use of character development and creative plot, I couldn’t seem to get over the foul language and sexual content. Parents, this book is not for children.

That being said, Brown’s plot had me invested emotionally and transfixed psychologically. No matter how many times I tried, I couldn’t figure out who the killer was.

music

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by Doug Hill

Album name: Tough Times Don’t Last (2013, Grady Shady Music) Musician: Grady Champion Why you should listen: Grady Champion is proud of his home state Mississippi and they’re proud of him.

Track three on his new disc is titled “Mississippi Pride” and in 2012 the Mississippi Arts Commission granted the bluesman a Folk Arts Fellowship.

This Canton, Miss., native is a strong representative for a state whose contribution to delta blues is without question. All 12 of these new songs are his original compositions with a few writing collaborations including notably with Magic City Kid on “Broken Down Cadillac.” The disc’s strongest and most soulful track is titled “Ghetto” where he name-checks his home town. Now hosting a big Japanese auto manufacturing plant, Canton probably isn’t as tough and impoverished as it once was. But Champion’s gritty lyrical recollection is heartfelt and genuine as any modern blues song around.

It’s about survival and getting out of the ghetto only to learn the world is full of them.

As executive producer of his own album, one of the best decisions Champion made was to include Thomasine Anderson’s backing vocals. She puts a sweet aural kiss on every track. Overall Champion has epitomized what the blues are all about in “Tough Times,” taking life’s despair and turning it in to a joyful sound.

by Doug Hill

Album Name: Through The Fire (2013, Smith Entertainment) Musician: Brandon Jenkins Why you should listen: Brandon Jenkins may have moved to Austin over a decade ago but Oklahoma will always claim him. The Oklahoma State University graduate developed his early chops in Stillwater and Norman saloons starting nearly a generation ago.

First album titled “Tough Times Don’t Last” was released in 1994 and newest “Through the Fire” is number 11 for the resilient Americana troubadour. From the start Jenkins had songwriting skills in spades and his most recent 13 songs demonstrate his talent hasn’t faded. It also explains why he’s often tapped as a writing resource in collaborations with the likes of Stoney LaRue, Bleu Edmondson and Cross Canadian Ragweed. Penning songs from the heart is not easily faked and Jenkins’ tunes have the ring of truth whether it’s about lost love, lust by light of a cell phone or a factory leaving town.

“In Time” is about leaving sweet home Tulsa early in his career and recalls some of Leon Russell’s best, another of that storied town’s stellar artists. It’s slow, bittersweet and imbued with the wisdom that comes from living long and working hard. The album’s title track is a similar testament to believing in one’s own personal mission in life and what it means to be a man with a home, family and friends. Jenkins is a journeyman guitarist and plays a competent blues harp, but it’s his unmistakable voice that seals the deal. His pipes are Okie as Gotebo, Cookietown and Frogville all rolled into one and steeped in Lake Tenkiller. That’s why even though this disc came out of Yellow Dog Studios in Texas its essence was made in Oklahoma.

photo by Kyle Phillips

JAZZ

the spice of life University of Oklahoma guitar professor Larry Hammett is performing from his new solo record with trio accompaniment at Norman Depot May 12

by Doug Hill

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evolution in guitar music during his lifetime.

“When you look at the master works of any genre; classical, flamenco, pop, rock ‘n’ roll or jazz — I’ll frequently find something and think ‘Wow, that’s fresh and new,’” he said. “Then I’ll look at the date on the record and it’s 1967. Ralph Towner’s music is a perfect example.”

Students often bring wonderful “new” music to Hammett who recognizes much of it as being a rehash of techniques from 40 years ago.

“Evolution is just a slow slog and I haven’t seen much of it,” he said.

Hammett praised the quality of students at OU. “I mostly deal with my guitar majors and they are great,” he said. “They’re very inquisitive and challenge me. I encourage them to do that and they’re in my face about stuff, which I like.”

As a youth himself, Hammett admired guitarists who were making a lot of money.

“If they were successful and had organized their lives in such a way that they were playing what they wanted to, making a living and having a healthy concert career, those were my heroes,” he said. “I must have liked the music, too, and they included Leo Kottke, Pat Martino, Wes Montgomery, Michael Hedges and even guys like Roy Clark who I’d see on The Tonight Show being goofy and playing the crap out of his guitar.”

In the past, Hammett’s recordings have been ensembles but his newest album is solo.

“The first half of the program will be those compositions,” Hammett said of his upcoming Sunday performance. “They’re a little impressionistic, whimsical, starting nebulously and ending the same way. They’re floating ideas.”

After that section he’ll be introducing to the stage keyboardist Dennis Borycky, percussionist Mark Giammario and bassist Anthony Stoops on bass.

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It’s satisfying that I can play a concerto with the orchestra, blues in a club with the boys, lute for some opera singers or guitar with my daughter’s country band

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For Larry Hammett variety is the spice of life.

Though the University of Oklahoma guitar professor is recognized as an expert in classical and jazz guitar, he doesn’t limit himself to those spheres of sound.

Hammett is sharing his music during a concert 7:30 p.m.

May 12 at the Norman Depot, 200 S. Jones Ave. “It’s satisfying that I can play a concerto with the orchestra, blues in a club with the boys, lute for some opera singers or guitar with my daughter’s country band,” he said. “It’s the ability to not be stuck in a genre and that gives me a great deal of pleasure.”

Hammett’s fondness for exploring music has naturally lead him outside strictly academic circles. Norman has fine concert halls like OU’s Catlett Music Center, and then just a walking distance away, The Deli is a watering hole where punk rock, crustabilly or hayseed twang is played every night of the year.

“There’s a healthy relationship between the university and those not directly associated with it,” Hammett said.

“Dr. Richard Zielinski, OU’s director of choral activities, has created a partnership with the Norman community and puts on these huge presentations at the Nancy O’Brian Center for the Performing Arts.”

That’s the classical side but Hammett’s not exclusively high-brow when it comes to playing music and making a buck.

“I encourage my students to play with guys on the street,” he said. “I hook them up together if I see that they’re like-minded people. Also, we bring local musicians such as Jahruba in for events such as the Masala World Music Series.”

He cited OU jazz professor Jay Wilkinson as being the sparkplug for inviting Ivan Peña, whose ensemble played last year’s Jazz in June, to an upcoming university showcase.

The professor hasn’t observed a remarkable

- Larry Hammett

Start your evening at Kids’ Corner located at the parking lot adjacent to LWPB Architects and Planners. Rose Rock School is sponsoring live entertainment and kids activities

KIDS CORNER

If you don’t have kids, start your evening at MAINSITE Contemporary Art: Home of the Norman Arts Council, 122 E. Main St. as they showcase select works of artists participating in Norman Open Studios — including Sue Schofield, Hunter Roth, Almira Hill Grammer, Douglas Shaw Elder and more — with an opening reception from 6-10 p.m. with the studio visit day planned for 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday, May 11

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

Check out Norman artist/mixed media Erin Latham’s work at the Social Club, 106 S. Crawford St. Her works focus on the complexity of nature.

Plan your perfect Art Walk with us. Find a complete list of events at 2ndfridaynorman.com/

7 p.m.

STASH, 412 E. Main St. is hosting the graphic novel meets punk rock-inspired art of Bombs Away Art Company, as well a pop-up shop from jewelry and accessory crafters BohoGypsy.

Grab some dinner at Bison Witches, 211 E Main St. Enjoy, DJ Mike B spinning through the night, as well as jewelry by WCH Handmades outfront.

7:30 p.m.

Now that you are properly caffeinated, head to Opolis, 113 N. Crawford Ave. They will welcome the Tone Def Parade, presented

by Mr. Phitts, an evening of outrageous karaoke.

10 p.m.

8 p.m.

Grab a pick-me-up from Gray Owl Coffee, 223 E. Gray St. While you’re there, enjoy the debut of new works from the paper exhibit Madcap Doodles from Alli Campbell and friends.

9:30 p.m.

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IMPORTANCE OF YOUR MEDICAL HISTORY Robert C. Wells, D.D.S. 808 24th NW, Norman, OK 329.2121 robertwellsdds.com

Views On

DENTAL HEALTH from Dr. Robert C. Wells, D.D.S.

Your general medical history has a lot to do with the type of treatment you will receive from your dentist.

For example, if you are taking a drug affecting blood clotting, the dentist should be informed so as to be aware of potential hemorrhaging problems should he have to extract a tooth.

A patient with high blood pressure should certainly inform the dentist. Certain anesthetics and medications should be used in preference to others. If you have some sort of heart condition, the dentist may change his method of

working with you. The patient with a cardiac pacemaker should certainly inform his dentist. The dentist might have planned to do electrosurgery, a technique that utilizes highfrequency current to remove gum tissue. If the pacemaker does not have proper shields or safeguards, the high frequency current could cause it to stop or become erratic.

The dentist can use other means of treatment.

If you are pregnant, diabetic, allergic to certain medication, your dentist must know these things-it’s for YOUR benefit.

Prepared as a public service to promote better dental health.

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John Calvin plays his harmonica and guitar at the 2012 Summer Breeze Concert Series. photo by Kyle Phillips

by Hannah Cruz

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Live music, a park and an audience. It’s all Performing Arts Studio’s Summer Breeze concert series needs to succeed.

With over a decade of free, well-attended outdoor performances under their belt, Nancy McClellan, founder of Summer Breeze and PAS volunteer, said this year’s eight-concert series, kicking off May 19, will continue to be a crowd-pleaser.

“It’s just simple, basic fun,” she said.

This year’s Sunday night concerts bring a cast of talented musicians throughout the summer, including: John Fullbright, The Gourds, Parker Millsap, Mike Hosty Duo, Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band, Honeylark, Elephant Revival and Byron Berline Band.

Mark McClellan, Summer Breeze chair

that makes it different than probably and Nancy’s son, said the range of music — Americana, alternative country, zydeco, any other festival is it’s strictly music,” he said. “We don’t have food trucks, we folk, bluegrass and more — paired with don’t have merch sellers, other than the the relaxed, outdoor atmosphere is bands selling their own things. The focus appealing for many audience members. is strictly on the music and not the event “It’s more relaxed. It’s not an ordeal itself.” like a three-day festival can Mark your The concerts first began as be. It’s more like wander calendars now to an off- shoot of the Firehouse up and sit down and have enjoy a summer Art Center’s Midsummer a nice relaxing evening,” he filled with free, live Night’s Fair in 2000. Shortly said. “There’s no braving the heat of the day because music in Lions Park, afterwards, the newly formed they’re playing about the 450 S. Flood Ave., PAS took over the series.

Now, almost every time the sun goes down. It’s during Performing performance receives 1,000 more of a little community, Arts Studio’s 2013 plus in attendance, with their neighborhood thing.”

Summer Breeze highest concert reaching That’s a large part of the series. Shows begin approximately 3,000. music series’ appeal, Nancy at 7:30 p.m.

Concerts are funded by said — the small-town feel. grants provided by Oklahoma Many bring the whole family Arts Council and Norman Arts with blankets and a picnic Council, as well as various private donors dinner to enjoy the evening. and cash donations accepted during the Mark agreed.

“It’s got a local flavor. The one thing performances.

David Mayfield performs for the crowd with his band the David Mayfield Parade during the 2012 Summer Breeze Concert Series photo by Kyle Phillips

Lissa Keller-Kenton dances to the music at the 2012 Summer Breeze Concert Series photo by Kyle Phillips

breezy schedule May 19: John Fullbright

June 16: Parker Millsap

Aug. 4: Honeylark

A recent Grammy-nominee, Okemah, Okla., native John Fullbright is well-known for his Americana songwriting.

“We’re real excited to have him because if his career keeps skyrocketing this may be the last time we get him,” Summer Breeze chair Mark McClellan said.

“Although he might like his home state connection so you never know.”

Get a taste of his work before heading out to the show by visiting johnfullbrightmusic.com.

A local favorite, Parker Millsap’s set will surely highlight his sultry voice and the bluesy twist he brings to his Americana tunes.

Check out the Chickasha, Okla., native’s work at parkermillsap.com.

Self-described as “sticky-sweet folk-rock noir,” this Oklahoma City duo is sure to offer up a unique sound. Find them at honeylark.com for more information.

July 7: Mike Hosty Duo

Aug. 25: Elephant Revival

June 2: The Gourds

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No stranger to Summer Breeze shows, Mike Hosty Duo will heat up the night with their eclectic sound. Visit hosty.com to learn more about the artists that call Norman home.

July 21: Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band

This alternative country group from Austin, Texas, is bringing a little bit of twang and a whole lot of fun to Norman. The band will be playing at the same time as Luncheon on the Grass, a free arts event hosted by several Norman non-profit arts organizations.

Visit thegourds.com to learn more about this band that has been touring together for 17 years.

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As proclaimed on their website: “There ain’t no party like a Chubby party.” Get a sneak peek on what this Louisiana, Grammyaward winning group has to offer at chubbycarrier.com.

Washboard, banjos, mandolin, fiddle, stompbox and more are coming to the stage during Elephant Revival’s modern bluegrass performance at Summer Breeze. Catch up on this Colorado band at elephantrevival.com.

Sept. 8: Byron Berline Band

A living legend, Byron Berline has played alongside the likes of Willie Nelson, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan and more. Get to know the Guthrie, Okla., native’s traditional bluegrass sound at thebyronberlineband.com before heading to the show. photos provided

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oors normally closed tight are swinging wide open during Norman Open Studios, an event inviting the public into the private studios of Norman artists.

The second annual event, presented by the Norman Arts Council May 10-11, allows a peek into the creative processes behind Norman’s art community. Norman Arts Council Executive Director Erinn Gavaghan said the day is a whirlwind of insight.

“I think the really cool thing about Open Studios is people are walking into the space that artists are making their work. If you go to a gallery, you’re not seeing the creative process happening,” she said. “A lot of times it really gives the visitor a much deeper connection with a work of art, if they’re seeing it being made, and they talk to the artist about what their process is, about what their ideas are behind the work, the subject matter.”

A total of 23 artists are participating at 14 different locations throughout Norman.

The National Weather Center Biennale is also a part of the event.

This year’s participating artists include: Todd Jenkins, Adam Stewart, Bill Boettcher, Sue Schofield, Almira Hill Grammer, Yvonne Evans,

N O R M A N

OPEN

Norman artist Hunter Roth in his studio.

STUDIOS Artists open their private studios to the public to showcase their artistic processes.

by Hannah Cruz photos by Benita Cloward

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5.10

oors normally closed tight are swinging wide open during Norman Open Studios, an event inviting the public into the private studios of Norman artists.

The second annual event, presented by the Norman Arts Council May 10-11, allows a peek into the creative processes behind Norman’s art community. Norman Arts Council Executive Director Erinn Gavaghan said the day is a whirlwind of insight.

“I think the really cool thing about Open Studios is people are walking into the space that artists are making their work. If you go to a gallery, you’re not seeing the creative process happening,” she said. “A lot of times it really gives the visitor a much deeper connection with a work of art, if they’re seeing it being made, and they talk to the artist about what their process is, about what their ideas are behind the work, the subject matter.”

A total of 23 artists are participating at 14 different locations throughout Norman.

The National Weather Center Biennale is also a part of the event.

This year’s participating artists include: Todd Jenkins, Adam Stewart, Bill Boettcher, Sue Schofield, Almira Hill Grammer, Yvonne Evans,

N O R M A N

OPEN

Norman artist Hunter Roth in his studio.

STUDIOS Artists open their private studios to the public to showcase their artistic processes.

by Hannah Cruz photos by Benita Cloward

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18 Norman artist Hunter Roth’s home studio.

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Craig Swan, Richard McKown, Douglas Shaw Elder, eight students from Firehouse Art Center College Prep Program, Laura Reese, Suzanne Varughese, Hunter Roth, Skip Hill and studio1409.

Gavaghan said the artists represent a wide range of skill levels — from just starting out to professional — as well as mediums and materials, including various sculpture materials, various paints, graphite, photography and more.

Studio spaces are located throughout the city, Gavaghan said, and come in various shapes and sizes. Some studios are formal spaces in corporate properties, while others make studios in their homes — maybe an extra room or a work shed.

“That’s one of the really cool things about this is to see the different types of places where artists do their art, whether

it’s their garage or their basement or their kitchen,” she said.

For Hunter Roth, Norman artist, his creative processes flourish in a small structure set up in his backyard. Though this Renaissance man is formally trained in sculpture from Louisiana State University, he now dabbles in almost every artistic medium.

“I’m like Prince. You can just call me an artist at this point,” he said, laughing. “I’ve started pursuing this whole music thing and of course I’m a sculpture, I’m a furniture man, I’m a painter, I’m a printmaker. I feel like I have so many labels, it’s like, ‘No, I’m going to be just an artist.’”

When visitors come to Roth’s studio they can expect to see the wide-range of his work, including furniture in his home, metal sculptures dotting the property, various

paintings hanging on walls and possibly even hear a sampling of his most recent project, a one-man band dubbed Quilted Cherry Podium.

A self-taught musician, Roth’s music setup is a drum buddy, a light-activated oscillating drum machine, paired with an omnichord, an electronic musical instrument. He built the instruments in to a podium he constructed himself. The sound is majestic and reminiscent of retro video games. Roth describes it as “weird-o music.”

No matter the medium, Roth doesn’t take himself too seriously. He wants viewers in his studio to recognize that art can be fun and accessible.

“Art doesn’t have to be stale and boring,” he said. “It can be fun and colorful.”

Adam Stewart, Norman artist who

19 Roth creates music on a drum buddy, a light-activated instrument.

all those tapes on my desk, nobody knows recently completed a piece for the Norman that you have the music on, Public Arts Board duck Get up close and personal with that you have your skateboard sculpture project, develops Norman artists during Norman stuff, that you have all these his mixed media work in a Open Studios, presented by the converted garage next to his Norman Arts Council, May 10-11. little artifacts.”

As a mixed media artist home.

The event begins with an opening reception 6-10 p.m. May 10 at Stewart finds inspiration in For Stewart, he said the MAINSITE Contemporary Art: studio tours allow him to Home of the Norman Arts Council, whatever surrounds him. He 122 E. Main St., with a sample hopes taking a step into his demystify the art-making of participating artists’ work on studio will encourage visitors process for his visitors. It’s display. to consider their own creative not often the public gets the Studio visits are scheduled 9 chance to see first hand how a.m. to 3 p.m. May 11 at various process. locations throughout Norman. See “I want people to see that and where a creative process our map for more information. they can do their own thing takes place.

Festivities end during an after wherever that is,” he said. “I’m “With the studio tours party 5-7 p.m. May 11 at MAINSITE. people can come in and see Public admission is $5 at the door. pretty excited about working in multiple media. And that’s the space and see what you’re For more information visit normanarts.org. from the wood to the metal to surrounded with,” he said. the canvas to the plaster stuff “When I put pieces up on the around here, and there’s charcoal drawings wall in a gallery people don’t know about

and there’s all these things.”

Norman printmaker Laura Reese said she also hopes visitors gain confidence in starting a studio of their own if they’re interested.

“I am a young professional, and with very little overhead and investment, I created my own space to work out of in my home. It took me only a few months to create my set up for my studio,” Reese said.

“Even if you don’t have all of the things you ‘need’ for a studio — for instance, I’m still lacking a press — you can still have one. For years my studio space was my bed, which is very unhealthy, mentally and physically, but I still created. There’s no reason you can’t have a studio.”

For more information on Norman Open Studios visit normanarts.org.

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see you there The who’s who and where’s where of Open Studios.

12. studio1409 (photography) on Canadian Shore Drive 1. MAINSITE Contemporary Art: Home of the 5. Lindsey Martin, Aimee Rook and Shana 1409 Morland Ave., driving east on Boyd “Rebelline” Brown (mixed media) Norman Arts Council Street 9. Almira Hill Grammer (acrylic paintings) Project Room/Scissortail School of Art, 123 E. 122 E. Main St. east of Classen Boulevard, turn south on and Yvonne Evans (oil paintings) Main St. Suite 2, across from MAINSITE Morland Avenue 309 White Oaks Drive, driving east on 2. Skip Hill (mixed media) Alameda Street, turn north on 24th Ave. NE, 6. Patta LT (handpainted silk) and Dennis 122 E. Main St., above MAINSITE 13. Bill Boettcher (steel, stone, wood) turn east on Newman Street and south on Butcher (pen and ink) 913 Flaming Oaks Drive, driving east on Loan Oak Drive 621 E. Hughbert St., driving north on Porter 3. Douglas Shaw Elder (wood, plaster, Alameda Street, turn south on 60th Ave. SE, shellac, graphite), Richard McKown (painting, Avenue, turn west on Frank Street and north turn east on Crooked Oaks Drive and turn 10. Sue Schofield (oil paintings) on Jones Avenue sculpture), Craig Swan (plywood, paint, south again on Flaming Oaks Drive 809 Morningside Drive, driving east on Boyd steel) and Firehouse Art Center College Prep Street east of Classen Boulevard, turn north 7. National Weather Center Biennale Program (graphite on paper) 14. Suzanne Varughese on Oklahoma Avenue 120 David L. Boren Blvd., driving south on Red Dot, 406 W. Main St., across from (photography, threadpainting) Jenkins Avenue, located north of Highway 9 Republic Bank 1800 Beaumont Drive, located in Campus 11. Hunter Roth (acrylic, oils, wood, steel, and south of Lloyd Noble Arena Lodge Apartments, driving south on Classen plastic, sound) 4. Todd Jenkins (steel) and Adam Stewart 1103 S. Ponca Ave., driving south on Classen Boulevard south of Boyd Street, turn east on 8. Laura Reese (printmaking, drawing, (mixed media) Beaumont Street, continue on to Beaumont Boulevard, turn east on Emelyn Street installation) 621 E. Hughbert St., driving north on Porter Drive adjacent to Eastwood Park playground 4400 W. Main St. #111, driving west on Main Avenue, turn east on Hughbert Street Street past Sooner Fashion Mall, turn south

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meet the artists

by Hannah Cruz

Almira Hill Grammer: Artist Almira Hill Grammer is inspired by the sites of Oklahoma — red dirt, blue skies and the structures that dot the horizon.

She uses acrylic paints on birch panels to create simplified, vibrant landscape paintings. Before creating a piece, Grammer prepares her wood panels by painting a base coat of red. She then lets the red poke through her images, creating an overall sense of warmth.

Grammer recently exhibited her work at the Oklahoma State Capitol’s Governor’s Gallery.

Learn more about Grammer and her work by visiting her studio 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 11 at 309 White Oaks Drive. Artist Yvonne Evans will also be at that location.

Bill Boettcher: Steel, stone and wood sculpture Bill Boettcher is inspired by shapes, forms and the work of other artists.

Though he graduated in 1999 with a degree in painting/printmaking from the University of Oklahoma, Boettcher said he could tell sculpture would soon be his main focus.

Boettcher works from two studios — one for painting, one for sculpture — on his 2.2 acre property in Norman.

Several, semi-completed granite sculptures will be on display in Boettcher’s studio during Open Studios to give viewers an idea of the artist’s creative process.

Visit with Boettcher 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 11 at his studio, 913 Flaming Oaks Drive.

Skip Hill: With a variety of cultural symbols and themes as well as a whole gamut of languages incorporated in to artist Skip Hill’s mixed media work, it’s clear that world travel influences his creative genius.

Hill incorporates acrylic paints and various papers to create works that can be described as simultaneously romantic and sophisticated as well as witty and whimsical.

The University of Oklahoma alumnus is preparing work for an upcoming show at MAINSITE Contemporary Art: Home of the Norman Arts Council, 122 E. Main St., this summer.

Check out Hill’s current projects 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 11 in his studio space above MAINSITE. 21

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Jerry & Libby invite you to stop by or go to www.crimsonproud.com to see the newest and best in Sooner gear.

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GEATCHES

studio artist gallery

Geatches Studio Artists gallery features famed Oklahoma artists and a community more than 30 years in the making

by Mack Burke photos provided art by O. Gail Poole

art by O. Gail Poole

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Converted more than 50 years ago from a 1920s grocery store, Geatches Studio has turned hundreds of art-curious seekers into full fledged artisans.

The mixed media work of artists from the conservatory are coming to Norman 6-9 p.m. May 10 at the Norman Depot, 200 S. Jones Ave., as part of the Norman Performing Arts Studio’s 2nd Friday Art Circuit. The work will be on display through June 29.

The exhibit features the work of several Geatches Studio artists such as renowned Oklahoma artists Sherrie McGraw and the late O. Gail Poole.

“It’s a pretty rare show actually to get,” Performing Arts Studio Director Rick Fry said. “It’s difficult to get all the artists together for one show like this. Sherrie McGraw is probably the most famous artist to come from the school.”

Geatches Studio Director Ted Majka said McGraw’s work almost harkens back to the work of painters like Michelangelo. She’s not a modernist or avant garde, but “a little more old school.”

As for Poole, the late Norman resident and artist, Majka said he was an artist without boundaries.

“Gail had so many styles you couldn’t close in on him,” Majka said. “Gail could go from one thing to the next, from representational to satirical.

He’s just a very interesting fella, very creative. He taught us how to paint outside of the box and do something different.”

Owner Donald Weaver said two or three generations of artists have studied at the studio.

“It’s a real Oklahoma City jewel,” Owner Donald Weaver said. “It’s sort of a secret little place.”

Under the surface is a deeper story, one about community.

By the time Weaver purchased the studio in the early 80s, it had a compelling history written through the paint brush of famed artist Richard Goetz. Goetz’s influence helped create a monster.

Students began to pour in to take lessons from the likes of Goetz, Poole and McGraw, and didn’t stop even after Goetz left to teach at the Arts Students League of New York. McGraw followed, but the studio had already taken on a life of its own.

Mary Geatches took the reins, beckoning more hungry creators, including Weaver. Geatches insisted he join in.

“She said ‘You have to paint,’” Weaver said. “‘Here’s your brush. Paint.’ So I became a painter.”

It was an inspirational offer he couldn’t refuse.

“It really opened my eyes to the art world. I saw the real art world,” Majka said. “I learned a lot from Mary.”

Then tragedy struck. In 1985 Geatches and her husband died in a car accident on Thanksgiving Day. Everything could have ended there with blank canvasses, empty easels and nothing left to paint.

But it didn’t.

Weaver rallied support, named the studio in Geatches’ honor and Geatches became a permanent muse.

“It’s a memorial to her. It’s a handed on, generation to generation kind of thing,” Weaver said. “It’s marvelous, because there’s never been so much continuity.”

Weaver said the studio has a magnetic quality, with artists coming from all over, like Santa Fe and New York.

“We got it going and we’re still with it,” Majka said. “It’s a never-ending moment. You always find something new.”

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See our detailed calendar in N-town lite in the main edition of The Norman Transcript for a complete guide of this week’s events.

N-town staff picks the top 10 things you can’t miss this month.

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An Evening with Dan Brown at Norman Library Learn about the newest novel “Inferno,” by international bestselling author Dan Brown during a live-streamed event from Lincoln Center 6:30-8 p.m. May 15 at the Norman Library, 225 N. Webster Ave. Brown, the author of “The Da Vinci Code” and “Angels & Demons,” will speak about science, religion, codes, book publishing, movie making and a few surprise topics during his only public appearance for the novel. “Inferno” is on sale May 14.

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Powwow singing at Jacobson House Namron Players perform at STASH Annex Beau Jennings at Opolis Listen to the sounds of Native American music during Jacobson House Native Art Center’s weekly Powwow Singing until June.

Singing and drumming

begins 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays with SNAG, Society of Native American Gentlemen.

For more information visit jacobsonhouse.com.

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Author visit with Sandra McMahan at Norman Library Norman author Sandra Oklahoma City reporter on the McMahan is launching her first trail of a human trafficking story, book, “Eternity,” during an event includes snacks and a Kindle 6 p.m. May 20 at the Norman giveaway. Registration is required.

Library, 225 N. Webster Ave. For more information, please The event for the e-book, a call the Norman Information psychological horror about an Services Desk at 405-701-2620.

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Jerry Jeff Walker at Riverwind Tap your foot to a little country music during Jerry Jeff Walker’s concert 8 p.m. June 7 at Riverwind Casino, 1544 West State Highway 9.

Don’t miss the iconic Texas

singer/songwriter, best known for his song “Mr. Bojangles,” while he’s in Norman.

Tickets are $30-$50.

For more information visit riverwind.com.

Namron Players are performing “Flush,” an original play by Steward Savage, during a series of performances starting at 7:30 p.m. May 16, 17, 18, 24 and 25 at the STASH Annex, 412 E. Main St. Tickets are $10.

“Flush” is a dark comedy about a relationship trying to stay afloat. The play contains adult language and subject matter.

Tickets are available at the door. For more information visit namronplayers.com.

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Hear the tunes of local favorite Beau Jennings & The Tigers during a gig at 8 p.m. May 17 at Opolis, 113 N. Crawford Ave. Other groups performing during the Miraculous Monsters of Spring Mini Tour include John Moreland & The Dust

Bowl Souls and Young Readers.

Tickets for the 21 and up show are $7.

For more information on Jennings visit beaujennings.com.

For more on upcoming Opolis shows visit opolis.org.

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Samantha Crain at Opolis

Battle of the Burger at David Stanley Chevrolet

Shawnee, Okla., native and Americana musician Samantha Crain is coming to Norman 8 p.m.

May 30 at Opolis, 113 N. Crawford Ave. Enjoy a night of entertainment with live music by Crain, Tallows

Enjoy a burger — or two — at the 3rd Annual Battle of the Burger, sponsored by Interurban Restaurants and David Stanley Chevrolet of Norman, on June 1 at David Stanley Chevrolet, 1221 Ed Noble Pkwy.

The event runs from noon to

and Sherree Chamberlain.

Tickets for the 21 and up show are $7.

For more information on Crain visit samanthacrain.com.

For more on upcoming Opolis shows visit opolis.org.

4 p.m. Though admission is free, sample tickets must be purchased, with prices starting at $7. All proceeds raised from the day will go to OK Kid’s Korral.

For more information visit battleoftheburger.com.

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Second Sunday Poetry at Norman Depot Faculty Show at the Firehouse Art Center Carl Sennhenn is reading from his 2013 Oklahoma Book Award Winner book “Nocturnes and Sometimes Even I,” during Second Sunday Poetry 2 p.m. June 9 at the Norman Depot, 200 S. Jones Ave.

Sennhenn was the 2001-2002 Oklahoma Poet Laureate of Oklahoma.

The reading is free and open to the public. For more information visit pasnorman.org.

Check out the works of Firehouse Art Center faculty during a special exhibit opening June 14 at the Firehouse, 444 S. Flood Ave. Two receptions are scheduled for 6-9 p.m. June 14 and July 12. The exhibit runs through the end of July.

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The gallery is open to the public 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Artists from each medium taught at the Firehouse will be represented.

For more information visit normanfirehouse.com

how to PICK A SUMMER FESTIVAL

by Kerry Friesen

Norman is known as the “City of Festivals” and the summertime is full of them. Here’s how to pick the right festival for you.

Do you prefer to be up and moving or let the action come to you?

I’ll be here in my lawnchair.

I can’t sit still very long.

Music, art or performance?

Art. Family Days at FJJMA

Music.

How much walking do you want to do?

Festival or Improv Festival at one night only Sooner Theatre

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FJJMA opens its doors to all ages for family friendly activites based on current exhibitions.

Check it out 1-4 p.m. May 19.

Located at 555 Elm Ave.

Festival atmospheres are the best.

Jazz in June

Coming from humble beginnings in 1984, Jazz in June has grown and is expected to attract 50,000 people this year. Check it out June 20-22. For more info visit jazzinjune.org

A slow wander is good.

Performance.

The Fifth Annual Improv Festival Oklahoma hits the stage July 12-14 at Sooner Theatre, 101 E. Main St. For more info visit festival.reddirtimprov.com

Do you like to people watch or are you more interested in the events?

Featuring a variety of local musicians, Summer Breeze has become a Norman staple. The first free show is May 19. Check page 15 for a full schedule.

One night only or ongoing?

More Once keeps please. it unique.

I’m here for the events.

Gotta love the people.

2nd Friday Art Walk

Midsummer Night’s Fair

Every second Friday of the month, Main Street stays up late as crowds pack into art galleries. For more info visit 2ndfridaynorman.com

One of the largest Arts Fairs in Norman will be held 6-11 p.m. Aug. 23 and 24 in Lions Park, 450 S. Flood Ave. Visit normanfirehouse.com for more information

Luncheon on the grass

One night at a time please.

Summer Breeze

Let’s keep it moving.

Running 4-6:30 p.m. on June 2 in Lions Park, 450 S. Flood Ave., Luncheon on the Grass offers many free arts activities.

How much do you love people watching?

Best part.

I like the events, too.

Cleveland County Free Fair

Norman Day Celebration

Cleveland County Free Fair is preparing for its 106th year. On Sept. 5-7 you can watch tractor pulls, ride the rides and enjoy all the fair food.

Held on the 4th of July at Reaves Park, 2501 Jenkins Ave., Norman Day Celebration offers free events all day from live music to the fireworks in the evening.

Norman Community YOU ARE INVITED!

Mathew, Josh and Emily Goering

!"# %&' ()!# *!'+,)-' )./ -"01 ,')%&'! 2""%&3 %" %&' timeless mission-style furniture and background music by Steinway, the Jan Marie and Richard J. Crawford University Club provides an inviting atmosphere for people to enjoy lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch and special events.

Amber and Hunter Roth

Membership is open to the Norman community as well as OU faculty, staff and graduate students. Reservations may be made through July 1 without a membership. All major credit cards or cash are accepted.

Phillip and Brenda Graham

CAUGHT oncamera

Lunch: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Tuesday-Friday Dinner: 5-9 p.m.

Wednesday-Saturday

photos by Kyle Phillips

National Weather Center Bienniale Opening Reception April 21

Brunch: 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sunday Reservations are recommended. Please call 325-4678.

The Jan Marie and Richard J. Crawford University Club is located in Oklahoma Memorial Union, 900 Asp Ave. Parking is available in the Union Parking Center.

The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution. www.ou.edu/eoo

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Runners start the 5k race at 8 a.m. May 4 before the start of May Fair. photo by Jay Chilton

CAUGHT oncamera

Lilleean Quirls

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Hand-turned wooden tops, pointers and decorative items fill the tables in Dan and Elaine Nealey’s booth. photo by Jay Chilton

Andrew Call wins the 5k race before 2013 May Fair photo by Jay Chilton

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photo by Jay Chilton photo by Jay Chilton

Emily Buss Darlene Wrischnik, left, shows Susan Combs jewelry. photo by Kyle Phillips

Mayfair Arts Festival, Andrews Park May 4 and 5

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