People sometimes have a tough time making new friends. Maybe this is because in this digital age, more and more often people interact quickly and at a distance and don’t get to know each other intimately or in depth. Most of us make our closest friends in high school or in college, then get on with our busy lives and miss the chance to interact in a meaningful way.
One day earlier this year, Crystal Davis and Christine Goodman of Art House Productions pondered this issue. They noticed that people who wander into the art gallery on Magnolia Avenue in Jersey City often hit it off.
“We thought that if people coming into the gallery off the street could react that way, what would happen if we set up an event that was designed to allow singles to meet while enjoying art?” Davis said.
So on June 9 starting at 6:30 p.m., Art House will host a Professional Singles Gallery Night. This will allow men and women to mingle with other single professionals at Art House’s light and lively gallery reception.
“We thought that if people coming into the gallery off the street could react that way, what would happen if we set up an event that was designed to allow singles to meet while enjoying art?” – Crystal Davis
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“Ecco Domus” is a selection of works from nine local, national, and international artists that employ replication, repetition, and homage as found within the framework of architectural inspiration. The artists are Abdolreza Aminlari, Joy Curtis, Katherine Di Turi, Karl England, Emily Hass, Teresa Moro, Jeremy Coleman Smith, Kirk Amaral Snow, and Krista Svalbonas.
People often talk about art a lot during internet conversations. Some dating sites often emphasize art in an effort to match people. But at Art House’s event on June 9, professional men and women between ages of 27 to 45 can meet and interact in person.
While there is an age range, Davis said, this is not exclusive.
“We’re welcoming everyone, even if they aren’t in the age range,” she said.
The range was designed to attract people who have already settled into professional careers.
“I’m 23,” Davis said. “When Christine and I talked, we were thinking about how many people my age are professionals. I don’t know any at my age that have full time jobs and are getting things done.”
So they brought the bottom age up slightly to a point where people have already established themselves.
Davis said Gomez is a particularly engaging person who has inspired guests in past events.
“He really makes people feel comfortable,” Davis said. “We think he will do the same for the professional singles crowd.”
The night is designed to allow people to meet and mingle in a low-pressure situation, giving them an opportunity to talk about art as common ground.
This event marks the second opening for a show that marks the gallery’s recovery from a flood earlier this year.
“The gallery opened again about two months ago,” Davis said. “This is like a second opening to the show.”
If this event works as well as they anticipate, Art House will hold more of its kind in the future.
“This is a male/female event,” Davis said.
Pre-registration is required. Men and women should register at http://www.arthouseproductions.org/.
Art House Productions is wheelchair accessible and located at 136 Magnolia Ave at the corner of Summit. The theater is adjacent to the Journal Square PATH Station.
Al Sullivan may be reached at asullivan@hudsonreporter.com.