As promised, Volume 1: Excess Party at Idea Exchange was triple-level, tricked-out and teased-high. You can read my pre-event interview with Aidan Ware, Gallery Director here. Over 400 people attended the community raiser on Saturday, March 4, 2017.
I used to live in Cambridge and was a frequent visitor to the Queen's Square branch. On the night of the party, I was definitely seeing the library in a new light. I've always thought it was a great space, but it never occurred to me that it would also make a great event venue. Everyone involved deserves praise for organizing and running the event so smoothly. When I interviewed Aidan Ware, she mentioned that Idea Exchange wanted to move away from a traditional gala formatand towards the concept of a community-raiser. I think that was achieved. When you think of a traditional gala, or at least when I think of a traditional gala, what comes to mind is expensive ticket prices, elaborate ball gowns, suits, etc. Often, galas tend to feel a little stiff and overly formal, but I didn't get that vibe from this evening. There was a diverse group of attendees and it was definitely more relaxed and celebratory.
The party included food, entertainment, music. It kicked off with champagne clink and continued with aerial silks performances by Brass Butterflies, DJs, dancing, film installations, fashion phenomena, Gaming Lounge, Gawk Box with body art, virtual realities, Bottle Bonanza, Escape Room, vocal and dance performances, story and fortune tellers, happenings and more. You can see more event photos on the Idea Exchange Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. I didn't get photos of everything, but I have included photos of some my favourite moments of the night.
DJ set up
Google Tilt Brush in action
Google Tilt Brush in action
Body paint. I'm a bit of a body paint enthusiast (I've been a human canvas several times) so I always enjoy seeing body paint artists work.
Bodies in motion on the main floor. One of the dance troupes performing.
Bodies in motion on the main floor. One of the dance troupes performing.
Charlena Russell's debut performance of her sound activated light suit. This was an amazing performance that included gorgeous visuals on screen.
Charlena Russell's debut performance of her sound activated light suit. This was an amazing performance that included gorgeous visuals on screen.
Grace and flexibility. Brass Butterflies
It was a fun evening that brought the community together and showcased local talent. I'm looking forward to what's in store for Volume 2. Did you attend Volume 1: Excess Party? What were some of your favourite moments?
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Story and photos by Glodeane Brown