"First Fridays" Top 3: Exploring the Aurora Art Scene

Apr 4, 2016
3 min read

Hello, friends!

This weekend, I made my way to "First Fridays" in downtown Aurora, Illinois.

After living in Aurora for about 2 years now, I was surprised that it was my first time attending this community event. What I imagined to be a lively outdoor festival, turned out to be an intimate, yet incredibly powerful showcase of art.

First Fridays is a monthly event downtown that encompasses art, music, theatre, etc.

Basically, local venues display their art, or engage in "open mic" style shows for the good of the community. Also, the nightly festivities are FREE. Many of the business's and gallery's offer free refreshments, or special offers during the night.

Cristina Carlos, my friend and a fellow senior communication major also attended the event. She believes that it is a great opportunity for students to attend community events.

“Students should go get more aware of the community," said Carlos. I think is pretty cool how many renovations are happening downtown. It is clear businesses and restaurants want to engage with men and women in the community.”

Today, I would like to share my favorite venues that participated in this community event!

I will also include a highlight from each spot, sharing what made these particular locations so special.

3. Perroud Images

When I arrived downtown, I noticed a map of the participating venues. My first visit was to Perroud Images, a commercial photography studio. Upon visiting the studio, I was intrigued by the unique photographs that surrounded me.

I got a chance to speak with the photographer, Tim Perroud, about his studio and photographs. Perroud told me that many of the photos were taken all over the world.

"The photographs featured include locations in the US, like Indiana and the Grand Canyon, but also from other countries. A few of these were taken in Japan. Others in Bali, Indonesia and in Haiti."

When I asked him about taking part in First Fridays, it was great to hear that it was his first time participating in the event, too.

"Being my first one (First Fridays) I didn't know what to expect, but I am very pleased that people are coming out," said Perroud. "It is a positive feel, and great for the community to come out and support the arts in Aurora."

HIGHLIGHT: Perroud Images was an excellent first stop. Not only was the gallery interesting, but the company was relaxed and inviting. Perroud Images had the BEST treats of the night. Sub sandwiches from Jimmy John's made this first venue a standout.

2. Culture Stock

Another spot worth mentioning is Culture Stock; a used bookstore that holds open mic nights for music and spoken word. If you like to read, Culture Stock has a great selection of used-books. It was an interesting change of pace to visit the book store. The quiet browsing was an warm addition to my busy First Fridays adventure.

Also, Culture Stock had great deals available for guests. Every book in the store was only 1 dollar! If you are a book lover, this deal was a steal. I purchased a book filled with springtime poetry. At 1 dollar, it was a great memento to take from my night out.

HIGHLIGHT: In a weird twist of April 1st coincidences, the first book I picked up was entitled "April Fool's Day." An odd surprise that made my night even more memorable.

1. Mutual Ground Auction and Showcase (hosted at the Aurora Public Library)

My final stop was the one that impacted me the most. In the Aurora Public Library, Mutual Ground was holding an art auction and open-mic night for survivors of domestic and sexual abuse.

At first I was hesitant to enter, knowing that this show may be sad to watch. However, it was quite the opposite. Hearing stories from the survivors and the victims of domestic abuse was heartbreaking, but ferociously powerful.

The strength of sharing their journey through art that made this experience empowering. Whether or not the audience could relate to the pain expressed by these survivors, we all were able to connect with them through the expressive art they were creating.

HIGHLIGHT: This particular event made me think. Not about the sadness and anger that was shared, but about the bravery of sharing your personal story. No matter the situation, finding the strength to share your journey has the ability to empower others and inspire change.

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Overall, First Fridays was great. So many unique venues opened for the night of art, storytelling and quality refreshments.

Thank you for visiting Campus Meets Community!

Make sure to check out the slideshow below to see pictures from First Fridays. See you next time!