The Los Angeles-based RAW:natural born artists organization will hold a showcase event in downtown Phoenix on Thursday night at the Monarch Theatre.
RAW is an independent organization created specifically to give up-and-coming artists of any medium, such as music, photography, film, fashion, cosmetics and the visual arts, a chance to display their talents. The events are held in nearly 60 cities internationally every month. This will be Phoenix’s third time hosting.
“Phoenix is a huge city, bursting with many creative artists; therefore, RAW offers an amazing platform for artists to be showcased, because it is created by artists for artists,” RAW:Phoenix Director Laura Fischer said.
RAW was created by aspiring fashion designer Heidi Luerra, who relocated to southern California in 2003 to pursue her dream, according to RAW’s website. After successfully hosting a multifaceted showcase in 2005, however, she realized she enjoyed providing a platform for talented people who go unnoticed instead, according the the website.
After the first RAW event in 2009, she teamed with web developer Matthew Klahorst to promote local artists through the web and in-person events. In 2011, the organization expanded from southern California. RAW is now held in more than 54 major cities nationwide as well as internationally, according to the website.
In order to become a part of the lineup, artists use the RAW website to submit work, which is then reviewed by RAW representatives. There will be more than 40 artists from various genres at Thursday’s event.
Performance artist Travon Jimmerson will be dancing in his first showcase with RAW on Thursday. He began his dancing career at a young age and gained experience in many genres including cheer, theater and musical production.
“Dance is something I have always done to clear my mind,” he said. “Being on stage in front of people is my goal. I am excited to be a part of RAW:Phoenix and receive audience feedback.”
Photographer Jacqueline Hanna will also experience RAW for the first time Thursday. Hanna said she is aware of the importance of capturing memories because of her experience as a wedding photographer and mother of two. She grew up in Germany with an artistic grandfather and received her first camera at 7 years old. Over the years, she traveled to many culturally diverse places, such as Israel, Italy, France, Belgium and Switzerland.
“I love capturing the feelings of a specific place,” Hanna said. “It’s like freezing time.”
Hanna took the pictures for Thursday’s showcase in 2008. This will be the first audience to see them.
“I’m excited that my art will be getting more exposure,” Hanna said. “My dream is to sell prints and have people hang them up in their homes, and this can act as a starting point.”
RAW:natural born artists is Thursday from 7-11 p.m. at the Monarch Theatre on Third and Washington streets. The event is 21 and older. Advanced tickets are $15 or $20 at the door. Guests should wear cocktail attire. RAW’s season runs from February to October and will end with an award competition in January in Hollywood among the top artists from all the RAW showcase cities.
Contact the reporter at Nicole.Genova@asu.edu
