Culture

Steampunk Spectacle Returns for Second Year


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Athens will be going back in time with style next week as the second annual Steampunk Spectacle takes over three venues.

Steampunk is an alternate view of technology, often viewed as a mix between the Victorian and Wild West eras and alternate power sources such as steam.

As part of the Steampunk Spectacle, on Friday, Sept. 5 from 5-10 p.m., ARTS/West will be hosting an art opening for featured local artists of various mediums with a Steampunk theme.

Local artists Stephen Richter, Geoff Schenkel, Todd Morrow, and Michelle Waters of Resolve Studios in Marietta, Danette Pratt, Tina Kelsey, Marcia Shubert, Elias Jablonski, Ryan Spellman, Nancy Baur, Kelly Lawrence, Kari Gunter-Seymour and Laura Werger are all displaying their Steampunk themed artwork at ARTS/West from Wednesday, Sept. 3 – Monday, Oct. 6.

The gallery space is open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 740-592-4315 for Friday hours as they vary.

The evening of Sept. 5 will also include vendors selling handmade and manufactured items such as masks, mechanical bits and pieces, books, jewelry, decorative art, and more. There will also be a Steampunk brewery dispersing samples of a homemade brew.

There will also be performances by the Steampunk Ballet, led by Elizabeth Atwell Brumley; Victorian Art Music performed by Chelsa and Metra Peterson; and the Whiplash Tribal Fusion Dancers will present a dance performance combining Middle-Eastern and contemporary styles. Refreshments will be provided and the event is free.

On Saturday, Sept. 6, the Athens Public Library will feature Steampunk presentations, workshops and social amusements from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Costumes and accutrements are encouraged. Registration is required for the workshops; call 740-592-4272 or visit the library on Home Street.

The Spectacle will conclude with the Steampunk Masquerade Ball at Central Venue (73 Central Ave., Athens) at 6 p.m. Admission to all events is free. For information, visit the event’s Facebook page.