What has long been one of my favorite traditions in downtown Raleigh, First Friday, has come and gone again. Every month, galleries downtown open up their new exhibits and Raleigh’s budding creative class, as well as other visiting artists, get to display their new work for everyone to see. This month had all the conditions to make it an exceptional showing, both for Bike First Friday, and for First Friday in general. Friday night had everything – great weather, enthusiastic people, and bikes. And more bikes. And then about 20 more on top of that – 114 total, and to my knowledge that’s the most we’ve ever had. Now, don’t get me wrong, this is NOT about sheer volume, it’s about a group of people getting together to promote art, alternative transportation, and community in a way that anyone of any age can appreciate. It’s great to have the numbers, but it’s the people that make this event rock. I’m digressing, so, here are some images of cool people, places and things encountered on First Friday:

Taken at Lump – this month’s artist, Jerstin Crosby, is part of TeamLump, and his show is called ‘If You Build It, We Will Burn It.”

Artspace – Regional Emerging Artist in Residence, David Eichenberger

Casey Porn’s studio, also in Artspace.

NCSU College of Design Faculty Show – Fish Market Gallery

Fish Market – CoD Faculty work

Blam! at Morning Times – http://blamstudios.blogspot.com/ artists include Sarah Blackmon, Stacey Kirby and Graham McKinney

More of Blam! at Morning Times. I really like the photos of the Garland Jones Building, and I also really like the work of Sarah Blackmon. But, you don’t have to take my word for it! Go check them out!