A stark white building tucked away on the Encanto Blvd./Central Ave. light rail stop, the Heard Museum is known for its extensive collection of American Indian artwork and history — content that, on the surface, does not always mesh well with college students’ interests.
However, on Friday, Jan. 21, the Heard Museum’s free third Friday series, NU (Native + You) continues, offering an open door to both the general public and University students.
“It’s a chance for ASU students to explore. The Heard Museum has a number of contemporary shows as well as traditional shows. Right now we have a pop art show from local native artists, but also works by Andy Warhol,” says Kate Crowley, public relations manager at the Heard Museum.
Opening the museum for free from 5:30-9 p.m., Crowley expects to bring in curious college students as well as the normal third Friday crowd.
In the Ikea Lounge and bar area, visitors can hear the Phoenix-based group Monophonic Hillside from 6-8:30 p.m.
The Berlin Gallery will be open to browse new artworks for sale while hosting a special $5 wine tasting from 6-7:20 p.m. A new showcase, “Resurfaced,” will be opening and includes artwork from artist and ASU master’s candidate in printmaking Jacob Meders.
“You make work for what you’re thinking, your concepts, emotions. I just hope it makes people think. I’m more worried with what they don’t do than what they think; I want to have a positive influence,” says Meders.
At 7:30 p.m., Meders will present a short talk about his creative process. A member of the Mechoopda Indian Tribe of Chico Rancheria, Calif., Meders says this collection focuses on birds.
“This showcase at the Berlin is bird prints, bird imagery. Birds are a big part of our culture and our stories. We learn a lot from animals, and they always been a part of me since my childhood,” Meders says.
Need more than just culture to lure you downtown? Maybe the words “free food” have the right sound to it. Check in with the ASU table inside the museum for a free gourmet taco voucher, while supplies last. If you are unable to secure a coupon, don’t fret. The Café at the Heard Museum will only be charging $5 from 6-8 p.m. for their tasty tacos that earned numerous prizes at the first inaugural Arizona Taco Festival. Drawings for a Kindle and Heard Museum memberships will also be held.
Students from Tempe campus can take the Metro Light Rail to the Encanto Blvd./Central Ave. stop. Downtown Phoenix campus residents living at Taylor Place are encouraged to leave with the groups departing the dorms at 5:30 p.m., or to meet at the museum.
Contact the reporter at crcruz1@asu.edu
If you go… NU: (Native + You) at the Heard Museum Phoenix 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, or Metro Light Rail stop No. 9, Encanto Blvd./Central Ave. Friday Jan. 21, 5:30 - 9 p.m. Free, but bring ASU ID for prize entries. 602-252-8848, heard.org/NU.
