Why Rethink to showcase Art, Music, Inspiration

What is ReThink Topeka?

Topeka artist Justin Marable will showcase his interpretations of the Capital City at “Why ReThink,” a new exhibit 3-5 p.m. Saturday Dec. 19 at Lola’s Café.

Last September, Marable sent out a call for art to the city and the region for the event, “ReThink Topeka,” which will occur April 17, 2010 in downtown Topeka. In the meantime, he has found fresh ways to perceive Topeka and continues to “ReThink” the city on a daily basis. The show “Why ReThink” is an effort to energize local and regional artists and will serve as a reminder to participate in the coming “ReThink Topeka” event April 2010.

“I’m hoping that people will use the show as inspiration to make their own ReThink Topeka art, or to begin expressing pride in this place we call home,”said Marable.

The art exhibit will be on display beginning Dec. 1, featuring screenprints of Marable’s work that deals with places in Topeka and written explanations of why he decided to “ReThink” that location.

A formal opening will be held 3-5 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 19. The opening will feature Topeka-centered poetry readings by Matt Porubsky and Leah Sewell, the live music of local band Interior Sea and discussions about Topeka as inspiration for local artists, musicians, writers and performers. Visitors will also be able to find out more about the coming April 2010 “ReThink Topeka” event, and merchandise such as stickers, pins and t-shirts will be available. Marable welcomes anyone to the show who is supportive of battling negative perceptions about Topeka and helping to create a more positive representation.

Check out the Facebook event for additional photos, or to invite your friends.

Making a Documentary – C. W. Porubsky Deli & Tavern

Have you ever visited C.W. Porubsky Deli & Tavern located at 508 NE Sardou in the Little Russia neighborhood of North Topeka? The deli opened more than 60 years ago and has survived floods, fires and recessions, all while being owned by the Porubsky family. And it’s known nationally and internationally for their chili, hot pickles and cold cuts.

To honor Porubsky’s story and all of its history, several groups in town have joined together to film a documentary about the deli. The full-length feature film will premiere in Topeka in late 2009. Check out a preview of here:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWtpM4AdKEc

Please help fund this piece of Topeka history by making a tax deductible donation at the Topeka Community Foundation and selecting the Porubsky Documentary Fund. All proceeds generated by the documentary will be donated to the local arts organization, ARTsConnect.

People/Companies involved in the production of this film include:
Matthew Porubsky & Leah Sewell – writing the screenplay
Gizmo Pictures
– filming, producing & editing
Jeff Carson & Greg Ready – Executive Producers
Justin Marable – creating original artwork for the poster and DVD cover
Dan & Sam Billen – creating the original soundtrack
Kansas Humanities Council – Humanities & Heritage grant

For  more information visit the C.W. Porubsky’s – Transcendent Deli Facebook Fan Page and become a fan. Or click here to download the Film Proposal which includes the history of the deli, specifics about the content, timeline and budget, as well as, how it will benefit the Topeka community.

Looking for something to do this weekend?

Check out the Chords & Oil Neighborhood Art Walk on Saturday, May 9 from 6-10:30!

artwalk They are featuring 7+ artists and two bands at four different houses in the Historic Ward Meade Neighborhood located between Ward Meade Park and Potwin. In the spirit of being neighborly, there is also a potluck!

There is NO ENTRY FEE for this event, so you are encouraged to bring snacks and beverages to share with your friends and neighbors as you enjoy the work of our local artists and celebrate the evening with some live music at the Broadmoor house! We hope to see you in the neighborhood – I know that Brandon & I are planning to attend. : )