51st Street Speakeasy

AN INTRODUCTION We’re continuing our series of art shows with an expansive mash-up media event. In an attempt to take things to the next level, we hope to showcase everything from culinary arts to fashion. With that in mind, we proudly present to you “808s and Solid Snake,” an art show inspired by two individuals who have captured our imaginations throughout the years: Kanye West and Hideo Kojima. From an outside perspective, these two artists couldn’t seem more different from each other. Kanye West is a rapper with a volatile persona. Hideo Kojima is a game designer with an affinity for American culture and is most famous for creating Metal Gear. But if you look at their eccentricities more closely, you’ll start add up similarities. Kanye West and Hideo Kojima are vexing blends of forces. Both are iconic. Both are divisive: loved and hated. Both construct and deconstruct genres on a whim. Both can be intentionally abrasive in their work. Both have beef with their respective industries’ leaders and throw shade accordingly. Both have an eye for visual flair and the dramatic. Both can be pretentious and some how not at the same time. At times, it’s hard to tell […]