Artist Nicolina Johnson is bringing her Free Art Society to the space at 384 Grand Street (formerly Two Boots Pizza). There will be a grand opening party this evening from 6 – 9pm with a visual art show, “Universal Heart,” followed by a dance party. We’re told plans for a new Mexican restaurant in the space are still underway, but in the meantime, Nicolina hopes people will stop by to participate in some interactive art with the collective.
Nicolina told me she has traveled the world painting anatomical hearts, with her “Hearts of the World” project, involving children from all over the globe, beginning in the Lower East Side of Manhattan with the L.E.S. Girls Club. Each child is given a panel with an outline of an anatomical heart and is encouraged to fill it in with whatever they feel is inside their own — with things that they love, their passions and dreams for life. All of the hearts will come together to create a large multi-paneled piece which will be displayed in public locations in Manhattan including the United Nations.
Free Art Society’s facebook page declares that tonight’s activities will include “live music of many varieties, Starring BabySkinGlove Open Cervix Surjery, Live painting, The VOID BOX, Video, Cosmic Photo Booth, Performance art, Fire spinning, Belly Dancing, Tarot readings, Hooping, Mini carousel, body painting, and day-glo interactive painting cavern…all for FREE!”
