Sat., Aug. 26, 7 p.m., $5 donation, The Cinema, 3925 Walnut St., 215-387-1911, www.bigartshow.com
Laboring under the "artist collective" banner, the Big Art Show is redefining the public concept of gallery space.
Although they were originally based in Asbury Park, the artists forsook their native Jersey due to its dwindling number of art venues, and launched an on-the-road show that transforms spaces via a travelin' media maelstrom. (Think: painting, photography, clothing, art and video installations and "alternative crafts.")
Proponents of "the little guy," Big Art teams up with local artists to create pretense-free environments where great unknowns can display their work. For Saturday's event, Big Art is partnering with Philly's Renegade Art Coalition to screen short films in addition to the regular arts display. Bronze Episode, Gentleman Loser and US Funk Team will provide the evening's soundtrack.
Big Art co-founder Paul Yavarone Jr. hopes to find more spaces to accomodate monthly events in and around Philadelphia. "The Philly shows are always my favorite," says Yavarone. "People get what we're trying to do here."