SAMASAMA 2017

May 24, 6-10pm | Ten Tigers Parlour, Washington, DC

The first edition of SAMASAMA Art Show & Gathering was a pop-up exhibition featuring 25 artists, vendors, and live screen-printing, held at Ten Tigers Parlor in Washington, DC.

Message from the curators:

When we first came up with this idea to throw SAMASAMA Art Show & Gathering we weren't sure if we could pull this show off in less than a month. Les and I worked really hard to make this happen and the response of support we received was overwhelming and inspirational. It was such an amazing night of community, conversation and camaraderie all in the name of making a difference through art. This is the beginning of something beautiful. We've built something that we can keep building on together. We're highlighting a marginalized community in the arts that doesn't get enough shine even within our own spaces. We want to keep on doing shows, we're open to ideas.

Les—Mare! My ace, my sister and chief creative comrade. We did it! Not only did we flow so well together on the planning and execution tip, but our similar vision and eye for detail made for some serious magic in manifesting this show into a reality. Your fresh music selections brought everything to life, while educating and opening our minds and ears to new Asian and Pacific Islander music. So grateful to have met you through music. Maraming salamat for hanging in there with me through some serious late nights, amidst our already insane busy schedules. Salamat to Oscar and Simon too for their support. To the artists—We were able to exhibit a wide range of art styles, and a good balance of street art and fine art. It was a pleasure meeting many of you in person and also introducing you all to each other. Thank you for lending your talents for the cause and answering our bat call into the internet ether!

Our thanks to Scott, Miguel, and the staff of Ten Tigers for the perfect atmosphere, delicious cocktails and food, and welcoming service. To our art installer Meredith—without your awesome powerhouse frame and hanging skills we wouldn't have been able to pull this off. Shani, thank you for your support and volunteering your time and energy to help us make this evening a success. To Alvina, you are the best. Thank you so much for holding it down for all four hours, making sure folks donate as they were coming in and also for taking care of the art purchase transactions. Thanks also to our amazing vendors, Sarah of Kicheko Goods and Melanie of Quiet Whimsy; to Neel and his staff at AALEAD for everything you do for the community, most especially for our youth; and to the Soul & Ink crew, Renato, Carla, and Julia—y'all bring it and bring it hard, while still finding a way to have fun and add to the energy in the room. And to Frankie, you are my hero. You make it happen time and time again and have so much patience, remaining undeterred in the face of any challenge. Mahal kita.