By Grace Urano
At this time of year, it can be exhausting to even consider leaving the comforts of home to explore the local art scene. It seems almost a given to grab some friends and Netflix for the night. But this weekend, I ask for you to brave the cold and explore the great city we all live in. And, more importantly, it can all be done with $30 or less.
Nothing is better than a great movie to start off a culturally enriching weekend. Stop by the Wexner Center for the Arts to view selections from their new film series Witness: Black Independent Film. Running through Feb. 18, the series opens this Thursday Spike Lee’s first feature-length film and work by Khalik Allah—a must for all the photography fans out there. His honest, Humans-of-New-York style will have you stuck to your seats.
Another option: Chilean filmmaker, Patricio Guzman’s work, The Pearl Button. Learn about Chile’s haunting past at the Wex this Saturday or Sunday. It’s the history lesson you never knew you needed. And, major bonus for my fellow students, this can all be seen on campus at only $6 to students and $8 to the general public, so there are no excuses.
If film isn’t for you, break out your inner cat lady on Saturday and head to 400 West Rich Promenade Gallery for The Amazing Cat Show. You read that right. This features all cat-themed work. And if you aren’t already jumping out of your seats, the exhibition raises money for Colony Cats. Who doesn’t love cats? I know I do.
If you’re anything like me and feeling a bit blue about the lack of scarlet and grey in the National Championship, head downtown to the OSU Urban Arts Space to see the Ohio State Arts Scholars Juried Exhibition. Open through Jan. 30, this annual exhibition is a great way to support the buckeyes and see some awesome student work.
I am a sucker for live music. There is nothing better than watching a band and momentarily forgetting about the paper due next Monday. So this Sunday, take a trip to Natalie’s Coal Fired Pizza to see the Floorwalkers for only $12. Get lost in the soulful tunes and, of course, chow down on some delicious pizza.
Another option (for my fellow Buckeyes who want to stay close to campus) is the Scarlet and Grey Café where Love Alive will be playing for only $5 this Saturday or Sunday. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the music.
The events this weekend have me in awe of the world beyond 15th Avenue. So go out and discover everything Columbus has to offer.
And don’t forget to tag any pictures with #artmakescbus. Happy exploring!
Grace Urano is a marketing intern at the Greater Columbus Arts Council and a student at OSU. She can be found watching Netflix and petting stray cats in her spare time.
