As I ventured to the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art for my first “Art on the Aux,” I had no idea what to expect. As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of both art and music, I knew, however, that I would love it. My first impression: epic. My second impression: delightfully absurd.
If you’ve never been, “Art on the Aux” is a monthly experience held at the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art located on campus. Every first Thursday of the month, “DJ PB” plays a soundtrack to curate your art experience. She picks a piece for the night and pairs it with three songs that connect her to that piece. The event’s motto says it all: “Come for the art, stay for the vibe.”
And … it has quite the vibe. My night commenced with entering the museum to Whitney Houston’s “I Want to Dance With Somebody” pumping through the museum’s speakers at full volume. Of course … I am already dancing. Meandering through the halls to see the art piece of the night, I couldn't help but stop myself: “The Annunciation” oil tapestry staring back at me with Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” blasting overhead. If that isn’t a spiritual experience, I don’t know what is.
The featured piece of the night, “Ceremonial Landscape” by Mario Martinez, features acrylic mixed media on canvas portraying a surrealist, dream-like abstract collection of vibrant shapes and colors.
And to complement, DJ PB chose to encapsulate this piece with a bit of jazz, flamenco and indie pop, a totally odd but completely valid mashup: “Painted on Canvas” by Gregory Porter (jazzy, groovy vibe), “Duende” by Gavriel Ayala (Flamenco piece) and “Abstract Art” by Wrabel (alternative/indie pop).
And just to shout her out, DJ PB, otherwise known as Pam Blair, is a South Bend powerhouse. She is a local poet, artist and academic programs assistant for the Kroc’s Institute’s educational programs. She hosts the Poetry Den that meets every fourth Sunday open to anyone and everyone and she also has art pieces located on campus, her most notable being a six by ten foot mural located in the Hesburgh Center on campus. Her personal slogan is: “Art, peace and justice.” So cool.
Overall, if you are looking for a spot to style your new fall-inspired outfit, do a PJ date with your friends or a solo date over to the Raclin Murphy. All 11 exhibits will guarantee a good night, especially when DJ PB is spicing it up with some house music, Chappell Roan or Whitney Houston. Unfortunately, I don’t think art museums without DJs will suffice for me anymore, but you will just have to see for yourself. The next “Art on the Aux” will be Oct. 2 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Overall, “Art on Aux” is a gem. Go, go, go!
