The Greater Boston art gallery scene has a bit of a stagnant reputation, due in part to stuffy Newbury Street spots haunted by old, wealthy art patrons sipping little plastic cups of chardonnay. But there are pockets of life out there for a younger, more restless crowd.
Along with showing paintings, photography, sculpture, and sound art, Brookline's Gasp Gallery books touring musicians and talented Berklee kids for live music - from head-bobbing dance tracks to electroacoustic soundscapes - that draws a sizable crowd. Not only that, Gasp is only one block from the "D" train's Brookline Hills stop on the Green Line.
Tonight, Bruxism, a duo that makes use of experimental voice-work, woodwinds, and various electronics, plays alongside far-out free jazz duo Allan Chase and Bruno Raberg. All ages. Doors at 8 p.m. $10 suggested donation, $6 for students. 362-4 Boylston St., Brookline. 617-418-4308. gasp sound.blogspot.com
The Washington Street Arts Center in Somerville also features live music alongside its visual arts. In February, the center hosted "Inappropriate Touching," a show that featured dirty art in comics and cartoons. This party was backed by DJs, electro-rock, and a filthy R&B rap duo. We never thought people could get so crunk at an art opening. Keep on the lookout for more odd art and killer jams at this rowdy Union Square spot.
This weekend, the center's resident artists will participate in Somerville open studios. Sat and Sun noon-6 p.m., Free. 321 Washington St., Somerville. 617-623-5315. washingtonst.org
Max Pearl is a first year student at Hampshire College who blogs about under-21 events in the Boston area. He can be reached at maep07@hampshire.edu.
