In one of several attempts to revive downtown Las Vegas, Mayor Oscar Goodman had a good idea and hooked-up with United to throw a multi-themed Block Party on August 28th on Fremont Street. The event featured 6 different areas with various themes, DJ’s and artists, including an outstanding exhibition called The White Album, inspired by The Beatles, and Graffiti Splinters featuring the artwork of Moody and Baby 168.
The White Album was a live art installation and painting done by the collection called Friends United Network based on the White Album from the Beatles. On-site, artists painted in sweltering heat even though it was after 10 p.m., to complete complicated works that brought hundreds of viewers. Artists included Seth Neefus and Ian Mailhot, who were also a part of the onsite creation in the Main Room at United.
Graffiti Splinters, presented by Connected Magazine, brought out the wooden graffiti cutouts of replicated tags and fill-ins from graffiti artists Moody and Baby 168. As large wooden cut-outs, it’s apparent that graffiti art truly is “art” especially when presented in its own skin.
Both shows were on Fremont Street next to each other which made it easy for crowds to flow back-and-forth—or across the street where Hieroglyphics, Fly Society, and Blue Scholars also played.
Around the corner, the United Block party also featured Fabulous and the Mayor himself, with special guests DJ Green Lantern, Morse Code, DJ Zimmie and DJ Nugget. Other features of the block party were lounges and showrooms presented by various United brands such as the United Boutique for Women presented by Keep, Steven Shein, Plastic Island, and Bijules; the United Boutique for Men featuring the release of the photography book and art show called “Deathcamp” by RJ Shaughnessey; plus live mural paintings by the Seventh Letter Crew, and a Live Guitar Hero contest with prizes by Han Cholo.
The wrap-up party Wednesday night of course was the Pool Party right at the Alexis Park—the location of the United Show—presented by Scion featuring DJ Haul and Mason, and tinyGiant (DJ’s Zimmie & Nugget).
Overall, as trade shows continue to expand outside of the concept of just trade shows and business and crossover into lifestyle events, the United Block Party and their other events created the inspiration needed to bring people from many different shows together to celebrate what it means to be in fashion, music, and art industries today.
