This past Saturday I was given the amazing opportunity to take part in a pop up art show in a barbershop called Astor Place Hairstylists in New York City. The show was put together by an artist named Michael Saviello (Big Mike), who is also the manager of the barber shop. He recently rediscovered his love for painting and ever since then he has used his lunch break to create new work. He sells his paintings in the barber shop and has shown work at galleries in Chelsea.

The show consisted of work mostly from artists that have been going to the barber shop for years, but I was lucky enough to be invited to show work because I have known Mike’s wife for years.

The show had a huge variety of mediums, from giant sculptures to miniature paintings. It even included a chess set that was hand sculpted and painted by Mike. Before the big reveal of the work, the band Blac Rabbit preformed and a short film made by John Luna premiered. The film told the story of Mike Saviello and his work.

The barbershop, which was easily the largest barbershop I have ever seen, was packed. I met so many amazing people that night and got so much positive feedback.  I think it has really helped me to feel more comfortable presenting my work and talking about it with potential customers and other artists.