Video a-Go-Go

Not all that long ago, there were few practical ways for artists to share the process of their work with the general public. Thanks to modern-day video technology, however, we can see all kinds of behind-the-scenes stuff. For instance, the methods used to give a nice, consistent patina to metalwork, as demonstrated here by local sculptor Thomas Reardon of Portfolio Metalworks, who is making sign finials for the Asheville Area Wayfinding Program.

Although the audio isn’t the greatest, this video brings together four iconic elements of Asheville culture: The Mad Tea Party’s novelty jazz; Secret Agent 23 Skidoo’s hip-hop; MelMacPink’s LED-infused hula-hoop dancing; and the Grey Eagle’s family-friendly vibe. Who doesn’t love watching something like this come together?

Even when packaged for a mainstream audience, Asheville’s arts culture is pretty impressive. Take this recent Asheville Dance Theatre performance for the Showstopper 2009 East Coast National Finals. It’s fun, creative and energetic, all without losing its sense of humor.

If you want to know what your community is really like, who better to ask than your friendly neighborhood mail carrier? Let’s hear what James “The West Asheville Mailman” has to say about his ‘hood.

And on a final note—and just in case you were wondering—local video guy Ralph Roberts wants us all to know that he’s not an illegal alien. All of his documents are in order, thank you very much!

Each week, dozens upon dozens of interesting local videos are uploaded to YouTube. It’s a lot to keep up with. Did we miss a particularly interesting, recently uploaded local video? Share it by leaving the videos URL (but not the embed code) in the comment fields below. Also, please mark it Not Work Safe if there’s any controversial content to the video.

 

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