First Thursdays on Grand

This month’s First Thursdays on Grand art walk on October 3rd will feature several new artists and ongoing exhibits at the balance of the gallery spaces.During the month of October, the newly-opened Studio Grand at 3434 Grand will be showing Teri Saul paintings including pieces from her Water and Bicycle series. An artist reception from 6:00 – 9:00 will include live music provided by the Future Oakland Jazz Trio plus wine tasting provided by the Temescal Urban Winery.Jaujou Studio’s October artist will be Luis Aguilera who has been participating in the Creative Growth Arts program since 1997.Latisha Baker will be exhibiting, on the First Thursday only, in Better Homes and Gardens’ main corridor. Latisha will be showing her distinctive notecards and “Ear Cookies” but it’s her wall pieces that are most remarkable. These are made from scrap pieces of plywood that Latisha transforms into amazing works of art using a wood burning tool and acrylic paints.Lorrie Fink’s oils on canvas from a series she calls “Wild Things” will remain up for viewing in the BHG gallery through tomorrow afternoon.

Up the street, Panorama Framing is extending its exhibit of paintings by Suzie Skugstad entitled “Dreamscapes” through the month of October.

Further up the street, Galleria Scola will likewise extend its showing of paintings by Carol Rudisill featuring views of Lake Merritt. Music will be provided outside by Harry Best and his steel drums.

Elida’s next-door neighbor, Rebooty, will be showing new works including furniture from the creative mind of Sam Raske. Cathy is promising sangria and other treats on Thursday. In addition, if you’re of my age and don’t have grand-children nearby, you have her permission to get your grand-parenting fix with Ginger and Colin who are always delightful.

When I snapped this photo in front of Kingman’s Lucky Lounge during the September First Thursday, they were gearing up for art walk visitors happy to partake of half-price beer, wine and well drinks from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. As a further incentive, they are exhibiting the works of five different artists. In addition, apparently they like the concept so much they’ve initiated they’re own First Friday event. At this point, I can’t confirm any details.

Left Coast Power Yoga will be showing artwork by Hadas Tal and will simultaneously be offering a donation-based class from 7:30-8:30pm with snacks and drinks to follow.

Urban Furniture will be exhibiting watercolors by Greg Wright and between 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. all merchandise in the store and boutique will be marked down 20%.

When visiting any of the above galleries, be sure to have your hand stamped to take advantage of the discounts participating businesses are offering that evening only.

Grand Tavern will continue to extend Happy Hour prices to 9:00 pm on First Thursdays. Last month, Drake’s Brewery brought several kegs that were served on the front patio where I wisely snapped this photo before polishing off my glass of Nyack Jack’s Barley Wine which was aged for two years in Jack Daniels whiskey barrels. At 10% alcohol, it packed a pretty good punch and was super flavorful.

For October, Grand Tavern is talking to Linden Street Brewery for this month’s First Thursday. Please check their Facebook page for the latest updates.