Next Wave Art Salon in Elgin this weekend

Submitted by DNA of Elgin

The fourth annual Next Wave Art Salon, presented by the Downtown Neighborhood Association, will be from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6, and 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7, at The Haight, an extensive gallery space at 166 Symphony Way in downtown Elgin.

It is a traditional art show turned completely on its head with no juries, fees, exclusivity or censorship. The Next Wave is a spontaneous, un-curated two-day event that brings together 250 established and new Chicago-area artists into a found space in downtown Elgin. Artists and performers of all means and abilities are given something that never happens -- free reign to show and sell work that you may not always see in traditional galleries.

The show is geared to attract up-and-coming artists with innovative approaches to their art form; however it is open to artists of all ages and genres. The experience of walking into a place designed for self-expression is unique for artists and patrons alike. It blurs cultural and economic lines and provides artists of all means and abilities the freedom and confidence to display their work.

The public can mingle with painters, sculptors, knitters, photographers, filmmakers, writers, poets and dancers all under one large roof. Art is an undeniable source for energy and inspiration, and the salon attempts to "illuminate artwork, artists and all viewers." Come see the surprising variety of art that established, as well as new, local artists are creating - exhibited side by side, work that is often censored and excluded from traditional shows.

Stop by and enjoy complimentary wine and beer while you stroll through the over 250 visual artists, performers and musicians. In addition to the great deals on art priced by the artists themselves, $3,000 in awards will be given out on Saturday night for the best work. For details, visit www.thenextwave.me.