On Friday, March 3rd, discover, dine, and dance the night away as Mongoose Junction continues its “First Friday” of each month series in Cruz Bay, St. John. Dance to live music and enjoy a wide range of locally made art at the premiere shopping and dining destination in the Virgin Islands.
Fueled by creativity, diverse culinary experiences, art and music, the Mongoose Junction community will offer V.I. residents and visitors alike a stimulating, cultural experience starting at 5:30pm. Featuring, the sounds of sweet pan music, Mocko Jumbie dancing, and music by, “From Broheem with Love” a Jazz, Rhythm and Blues band from 6 to 9pm
In addition, 30 unique Mongoose merchants will be hosting artists, art exhibit openings, live music, and special offers. Among some of the First Friday art gallery & retail offerings on Friday, March 3rd include:
The Gri Gri Project at Bajo El Sol will delight audiences with the forces of nature at the opening of its exhibition “Natural Poetics.”
Natural Poetics features four artists practicing in the Virgin Islands whose works convey a strong identification with natural subjects and materials.
St. Thomas-born painter Shansi Miller will be displaying new works from “The Nature Series,” in which her human subjects become protagonists in an epic creole history set amidst the natural environments of her home island. These recent oil paintings are a nuanced exploration of Virgin Islands mythology and identity.
St. Johnian master wood turner Avelino Samuel will be exhibiting his latest hand-turned bowls and vessels made from local woods including mahogany, genip, raintree, white prickle and others. Samuel’s works range from highly ornate to naturalistic, and reflect his desire “to let the material be the dominant voice, or in other instances, work to accent its character.”
Accomplished St. Thomas batik artist Doreen Walsh will also be displaying new works. Walsh is drawn to the batik medium because it affords “a balance between pre-made plans, impromptu ideas, and things beyond control.”
Natural Poetics will also introduce to the Virgin Islands Italian painter Katia Montisanti, who has recently relocated to St. John. Her large canvases, depicting her garden on St. John, are vibrantly colored representations of new botanical encounters in the Caribbean.
The exhibit will run through March 31st.
The Best of Both Worlds Gallery will spotlight Elaine Estern’s works of art. In keeping with the back-time St. John theme, Elaine captures how life was back in the older days. Some of what will be shown, are her paintings of old West Indian cottages and her style of above and below worlds in one image.
Elaine has been a long time resident of St. John, coming to live here more than 30 years ago. She has been involved in our community in several capacities throughout that time. She still resides above her studio on Frank Bay and paints daily, if time allows.
Other gallery artists include, Kimberley Boulon, Kat Sowa, Elaine Estern and Candice Greathouse.
St John Experience Gallery will be offering 40-60% discounts on select items.
Bamboula will feature “Marcella Dances!” a performance in the tradition of African dance.
During the evening of the event, mention the phrase “First Friday” and receive a free sterling silver petroglyph charm, with a purchase of $20 or more at Caravan Gallery.
Friends of Virgin Islands National Park will have a 20% off on select items.
Sugarbirds will feature photography images by owners, John and Dean Baldwin.
St. John Scoops will be offering FREE face painting for kids on the patio at Scoops from 6-8pm.”
The Brewtique – purchase three t-shirts or hats, or any combination, and receive a free pint glass.
Included in Mongoose Junction’s first Friday Friday restaurant offerings are the following:
Dine among the art work of artist Patty Tacquard at Ocean Grill Restaurant which features fresh, contemporary cuisine. Call 693-3304 for reservations and don’t forget to save room for handmade desert.
Viva Cantina’s will offer its “Chef’s” Complimentary Salsa Tasting (on request) for parties of 4 or more, 5 to 9 pm. Viva’s featured artist is Kimberley Boulon.
The Tap Room – Pop a Can Pop Up. St. John Brewers are teaming up with Big Planet, and having our Can party (pay $5 and drink till they’re gone), and Big Planet will be bringing over racks of clothes into the new space, and have a “pop up” sale in conjunction with our party. Brewery Tours will be offered from 6-9 as well.
Sun Dog Café is celebrating 20 years on St. John with 20% Off Adult Beverages 5 to 9 pm.
Mongoose Junction’s first “First Friday” event of the season promises to be a fun and art filled evening. For further information, visit the Mongoose web site at www.mongoosejunctionstjohn.com.