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PUTNAM --- When several downtown Putnam gallery owners launched First Fridays, they were hoping to get the support of local business owners and the general public. Little did they know that the event would solidify Putnam as a modest regional arts and culture ‘mecca’, helping to reinvent the town as a true destination for locals and tourists alike.
The Putnam Business Association and the First Friday Committee will be holding the fifth First Friday Event on from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Oct. 7. Experience another outstanding evening that celebrates the creative passion in our region with live music, unforgettable “Art Attacks”, gallery exhibits and featured artists, special demonstrations and live performances.
Featured will be: Brown Bird, a Providence-based Indie Folk and blues band; the Artisan’s Market with activity and live demonstrations; Glimpse of Gaia with live artist demonstrations; Silver Circle Gallery with its 3rd Annual Women’s Breast Cancer Benefit Exhibit and Pizza & Picasso Night for Kids; Sawmill Pottery with an artist's reception (artist Mark Zellars will talk at 7:30); artist Normand Chartier at Arts and Framing. Fine Art Frolic courtesy of The Complex Performing Arts Center with art installations, live art exhibits and performing artists.
This month's "Art Attack" will be a “Martial Art Attack”. Local seasonal fare will also be available from JD Coopers as well as the many popular downtown restaurants.
First Friday has more than just pure entertainment and cultural value. Despite today’s struggling economy, First Fridays have contributed to the area’s economic vitality. Putnam’s Economic and Community Development Director, Delpha Very said “I view the process as enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors, and the creation of a ‘sense of place’ that people want to be a part of. Events like First Fridays bring about a sense of community that we all seek, especially in difficult times, and a time to celebrate and connect to the creative assets that make Putnam such a special place. The result of these successes?...Economic Development.” Karen Osbrey, president of the Putnam Business Association, said, “First Fridays are a celebration of that creative entrepreneurship that keeps Putnam fresh and exciting.”