Opening of Dash Gallery in New York
I got wind of a reception for the opening of a new art gallery owned (at least in part by) music mogul and film producer, Damon Dash. I thought, “This should be cool.” And it would’ve been had people been able to get in.
The opening of the Dash Gallery in New York City was on February 19 from 7 to 11pm. I arrived at a respectable 7:30 only to find that my RSVP (and the RSVP’s of all the rest of the folks still standing outside) meant nothing. Okay, now unfortunately I’m used to brown folks not having their stuff together. I know, I don’t wanna put us on blast, but you know can be. So I get there only to find that it’s complete chaos. It wasn’t made clear who was checking people in, and aside from the one frantic young lady who was being literally pulled in every direction by people trying to figure out how to get in, there were no visibly designated press people. Absolutely ridiculous.
And just a question, but since this is Black History Month, why weren’t any African American artists being showcased? Actor Malik Yoba, who I chatted with just as I had given up on trying to get into this poorly designed soiree commented that he came out because he has “literally know Damon since he was probably like seven”, and wanted to show his support. Regarding the lack of Black artists being shown Yoba thought, “it’s just a timing thing”. Hmm, but if you are planning an art opening, and you have an idea of when you will be presenting artists, (uh in February), as a black proprietor, can’t you anticipate timing and include a black artist? I’m just saying.
You cannot be a public figure (even if you’re just the figure-head and allowing your name to be used for publicity) and give a free high profile event in New York City and not expect a huge turnout. Therefore you must have proper protocol. There has to be some level of foresight regarding turnout. Banking on the police (and NYPD did make an appearance) to deliver crowd control should not be plan B.
Well the pursuit to support cultural arts continues. Hopefully the next event will actually be… eventful. Even though I couldn’t make it in, the art I saw on the site looks kinda dope. Check it out and learn more about the Dash Gallery at www.fortoulpresents.com.
