The ARTery, a Rock Island gallery which features new regional talent, will expand its programming with a novel idea on Saturday, June 28. Acoustic double-neck guitarist Ian Ethan will give a concert accompanied by selected local artists interpreting and painting, in real time, what they hear in the multi-layered instrumental music. An artists' reception will follow the show, when the just-painted, musically-inspired pieces will be displayed.
Ian Ethan's music is loaded with visual possibilities. With 18 strings, innovative playing techniques, and a complex array of electronic looping pedals which he uses to capture and play back parts of the live compositions, the young guitarist builds scores of harmonic and rhythmic layers into his original, uncategorizable songs. The result is music that has been described as "colorful," "rich," "magical," and even "spiritual." The idea of combining visual and musical art is not new to Ian Ethan. Recently, the Planetarium at the Boston Museum of Science held a series of light-image shows specifically designed to accompany his music, performed live under the dome. For a preview of the evening's music, visit www.IanEthan.com.
Avenue, Rock Island. The June 28 event will run from 6 to 9 p.m., with the concert beginning at 6:30. Wine, beer, and snacks will be served. Attendees will also have the opportunity to view the gallery's current show titled "Text is a Four-Letter Word," by Steve Banks, Heidi Hernandez, and Terry Rathje. No admission will be charged but donations in support of the ARTery and the guest musician will be gratefully received. For more information, please call (309) 781-7668 or e-mail Carolyn Krueger at carolynjkrueger@gmail.com.
