Fishtown Collective

by Dianca Potts

Before Will Sacksterder found a hidden wing in his father's unused warehouse, his idea of opening a gallery seemed hopeless. After all, he and friend Victor Gennaro were just college students with a little dream.

But, as Gennaro points out, Philly's art scene is both open-minded and ever-growing, a combination that welcomed a newbie like himself. "It's a warm, creative community," says Gennaro, now Fishtown Collective's producing artistic director. "If you want to start a band, make a film or book a show, I feel like it's the kind of place where — if you have enough drive and passion — you can do it."

The gallery's opening exhibit, curated by Kat O'Brien, will feature works by graffiti artist Yis Goodwin, UArts student Aidan Rich and multimedia artist Alex Eckman-Lawn (pictured). Local pop band You, Me & T-Rex will perform along with Toy Soldiers, which, in keeping with the upstart gallery's mission, is composed of two Temple students. In addition to hosting art and music events, Gennaro says the Fishtown Collective will screen movies during the summertime. Don't be surprised if some of Sacksterder and Gennaro's senior film projects make an appearance.

Opening reception Sat., May 9, 7 p.m., $5, Fishtown Collective, 1431 N. Front St., 603-581-8209, fishtowncollective.blogspot.com.