See also: - Calling all weirdos: Truly Rejected magazine takes off this Friday at 3 Kings Tavern - Music on the lawn: Clyfford Still Museum hosts a free concert Friday - The Duplass brothers talk about Do-Deca-Pentathlon, and their (lack of) sibling rivalry
Jimmy Tsutomu Mirikitani at Access Gallery (Friday, free) Jimmy Tsutomu Mirikitani creates simple, elegant paintings and drawings that depict his life. And that life includes a lot of turmoil. From drawings of the atomic bomb that killed many of his friends in Hiroshima to the internment camp he lived in the United States during World War II, his art tells the story of this fascinating man's life. And beyond the paintings of depressing stuff, there are also a lot of cute pictures of cats. Come see this special show at Access Gallery tonight.Truly Rejected Magazine Launch Party at 3 Kings Tavern (Friday, free) In the wake of print publications folding all over the place, it's refreshing to celebrate the launch of a new addition to the coverage of Denver culture. Onemanna, TwoTone Wolf Pack, Little Fyodor, Reverend Deadeye and The Bloody Fives will play music to usher in the creation of this new magazine for oddballs; there will also be an art show and handmade clothing for sale. Take in the art and music and be sure to drink to the survival of print journalism.
First Friday Extravaganza at Denver Open Media (Friday, free) The folks at Denver Open Media know how to throw a great First Friday party, and they'll do it again this month with a bash featuring music from Lion Souljahs, mini workshops of DOM classes, and a drumming event by Pick Up America. One of the perks of the event? It's live-streamed on Comcast Channel 57, so you can get your fifteen minutes of fame by waving at the camera as you walk by.
The Do-Deca Pentathlon at the Denver FilmCenter/Colfax (Friday-Sunday, $9.75) This new film by brother movie-making duo Mark and Jay Duplass (Cyrus and Jeff, Who Lives at Home) deals with a topic close to them: sibling relationships. The movie follows two brothers as they compete to win a 25-event championship. And you'll be able to watch their exertions while sitting in an air-conditioned movie theater.
FaceMan and Rubedo at the Clyfford Still Museum lawn (Friday, free) The event planners at the Clyfford Still Museum will bring together art and music this summer with a series of free concerts on the lawn. It kicks off tonight with FaceMan and Rubedo, and promises to be a great way to enjoy the outdoors, hear some local music, and grab a hot dog from Biker Jim's, which will be on hand to provide sustenance for the evening. Blackout Party at the Meadowlark (Friday, free) If you're looking for a dance party this weekend (who isn't?), one of the best bets is this retirement party for DJ Peter Black, who's been spinning records in Denver for over twenty years. Now it's time to come say goodbye as he retires from the decks. DJ Max Klaw will also provide tunes, so it's sure to be a dance night to remember.Cherry Creek Arts Festival at Cherry Creek North (Friday-Sunday, free) Any summer weekend isn't complete without some sort of festival, and the annual Cherry Creek Arts Festival is one of the biggest, with a huge selection of carefully curated fine art, and tons of other activities. Brave the crowds as you wander around in the heat and gaze at all the expensive things you wish you could buy.
Free Day at the Denver Art Museum (Saturday, free) It's that time again when the Denver Art Museum opens its doors for free, allowing all Colorado residents to browse its collections. While the free parts unfortunately don't include the spectacular Yves Saint Laurent exhibition (which closes on Sunday), air-conditioning is gratis. And if you're feeling a little flush, the $10 special ticket for the Saint Laurent show will be cash well-spent.
Mission Supports Benefit at Dazzle Restaurant & Lounge (Sunday, $10) Mission Supports provides support for people with disabilities who are on long waiting lists for resources. Help make things happen tonight at a silent auction and benefit concert. Jazz musicians Ron Miles, Janet Feder and Amy Shelley will provide the tunes for the evening, and you're sure to leave with that warm fuzzy feeling of having done something good for humanity.
Don't Look Down at the MCA Denver (Sunday, $5) Enjoy the view from the roof of the MCA at this summer concert series, which kicks off tonight with music from Sweet Tooth Meat Tooth. The band features members of Snake Rattle Rattle Snake, and the night should be the perfect opportunity to listen to music, enjoy the view from the roof, sip some cool drinks and enjoy the summer air.
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