Local Contemporary Artists Julie Ahmad and Erica Wildman have turned what some would deem competition into camaraderie. Their paths first crossed when Julie was pregnant six years ago and she attended one of Erica’s art shows at The W in Austin. At the time, Julie had just begun her career as an Artist as her pregnancy invoked her desire to create. She remembers admiring Erica’s work and feeling inspired. Fast forward six years later when Julie and Erica are both established Artists creating large-scale abstract paintings. By fate, these two women found themselves renovating their new studio spaces next door to one another. Most small business owners would loathe the idea of selling their product next door to their competitor. However, this is where their relationship took root and blossomed into the partnership they have today. As purveyors of uplifting the women around them, Julie and Erica had an unconventional outlook on their situation. They wanted to form an alliance where they would not only market each other’s art, but they would actually benefit from each other’s successes.
Julie took the notion and belief of "we are stronger" together by formulating Art Boss, ATX a 501c3 non-profit, which is dedicated to supporting the art community by providing hands-on training and educational workshops on the business side of pursuing a career as an artist.
With the East Austin Studio Tour quickly approaching, Julie and Erica decided to join in on the festivities by co-hosting their own event to kick off this exciting art-filled weekend. Julie and Erica’s studios are located on the west side of Austin, so it’s only fitting to name this event the Not So East Kick-Off Party!
Before you hit the east side for the weekend, pop on over to 2311 Thornton Rd. Unit K + J, Austin, TX. 78704 on Friday, November 15th, from 7:30-10:30 p.m.
Enjoy a lively night packed with a 3 selection silent disco by Quiet Events, raffle prizes galore, Garbo’s Lobster Roll food truck, complimentary beverages by FIX Vodka, musing by Musée Beauty and their inspiring models, and eye candy from both Erica & Julie's new art collections!
Both artist's will be holding open studio hours that coincide with the East Austin Studio Tour on November 16-17 & 23-24, 11-6pm each day.
Your $20 cover/donation to the party will also alot you a raffle ticket to an item of your choice! All proceeds go to Art Boss ATX, a 501c3 non-profit. Our raffle items include gift cards and baskets from local Austin business, we couldn't be more grateful for their generosity! More deets on those on our event page.
