Those who don’t frequent the Jefferson Center and Shaftman Performance Hall may not realize that the hallways outside the concert venue and offices also double as an art gallery. Various artists and student groups have exhibited there over the past few years, and now a new show that runs through July 28 has made its debut. “LoLo Monae presents [the] Gang of Lost Souls,” opened with a reception last weekend.
A box of old stuffed toys inspired the name Gang of Lost Souls; last year a group of artists exhibited at the Jefferson Center under that name in conjunction with a play staged by the GAMUT troupe in the rehearsal hall behind the Shaftman main stage. “Its kind of like Toy Story,” said Monae, referring to the misfit toys in that blockbuster movie.
Monae (real name Lloyd Wiser) works behind the scenes at the Jefferson Center, operating equipment during performances. With the summer months almost completely dark at the entertainment complex, Monae, a hip hop/graffiti/tattoo fan and an artist himself who favors collages, figured it was a good time to mount an exhibition.
In the past, groups like the League of Roanoke Artists and local high schools have exhibited in the Jefferson Center hallways. “A lot of kids are involved – and that’s what is really cool about Jefferson Center,” said Monae.
Monae invited several dozen of his creative friends and acquaintances, using Facebook as a platform to call for entries. “Lost Souls” works are for sale, contact Jefferson Center office personnel (suite 221) about a purchase.
There is no theme to the current Lost Souls show said Monae, instead it is an exhibit that features “a variety of age groups and [artistic skill] levels. Its basically for anyone who appreciates art.” More than 50 artists and 160-plus pieces were on display opening night. A few well-known names like Ann Glover are taking part – as is Charles “Chicken Man” Cullen, the cable access TV maven, and many lesser-known artists.
Normally the hallways “are empty” in July noted Monae; Jefferson Center management was receptive to his pitch for a show. There are other benefits as well: “this is my way to meet new people and hang out with my friends.” 100 or more of his friends showed up last Saturday for the opening reception, the biggest ever for Monae’s Gang of Lost Souls shows.
By Gene Marrano [email protected]
