Wanted to take a look at the August art show at the Mount Royal Tavern, opening Thursday August 6 and runs through the end of the month. This years salon show was packed with plenty of art. But is the art the main attraction?
Opening night was filled with lots and lots of people. All kinds of different types of people. Tonight there were artist, non-artists, a few summer session MICA students, barflies and newbies. There was a new bartender that I never met before and she was great! Helpful, attentive and quick.
Early on, the crowd was definitely on the younger side. Listening and watching people and how they interact was entertaining. Typically, you'll see a couple of people hanging out, maybe off to the side, maybe talking to each other, maybe not but all the while with an lost look. I would bet 2 newbie artists that aren't sure how to interact at an opening. Then you might see a non-artists hitting on an artist or two. This scenario might have been predictable but the most entertaining. Long story short, you know it ends with the 2 girls walking off with new drinks and the guys not knowing where they went wrong. Just a word of advice. Most women are overwhelmingly smarter than most men (doubles for women artist), end of story. But what about the art?
Mount Royal Tavern typically hosts 3 salon shows annually. February Valetines (Sex) Show, August Salon Show and October Halloween Show. This August Show is always packed and this years was no exception. Though there was a lot of very nice work, this one was a fave! Titled, "I am the b*tch of my own dreams", appropriate and well done. Not sure about the artist, name listed was "Bacchus", (known as Dionysus in Greek mythology), the Roman god of wine, ritual madness, fertility, and theater. 
Other works worth noting include #18, strangely titled, "Perfect Kiss" by Mark Cameron. Looks like acrylics on wood panel, very nice and an eye catching shape.
What is about the Tavern that makes it so specail? The Staff, atmosphere and assorted characters that frequents the tavern. It's been around for 90+ years but you should go check it out yourself. First, after entering, look up at the ceiling. You might think it's a "Sistine Chapel" painting and you'll understand why the tavern was one time known as the "Dirt Church". More recently the back area has been redone quite nicely. Go out the back door and enter a new "garden" area complete with tables and chairs with an occasional beer or food truck. But some of the more savory stories involve the men's bathroom, a must see if you're drop by the tavern. You will immdediately know the rest of the story and you can pass it on to the next generation. BTW - after many many years of cash only, the Mount Royal Tavern now accepts credit cards. Check out their IG Page
Enjoy the photos. If you have any questions or comments just drop me note! Thanks...
