The Two-Headed Raptor Show is the collaboration of two local artists and life-long friends Brendan Patrick and Tom Beste. Their unique artistic vision is brought to life at this show which will also benefit a good cause, The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Cystic Fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe over time. More than 30,000 people are living with cystic fibrosis (more than 70,000 worldwide). Raising awareness of this disease is an important issue to both artists.
Blind artist Brendan Patrick and tattoo artist Tom Beste share an upbringing and residence in the Metro Detroit area, a lifelong devotion to the visual arts, and a passion for playing music in their rock band The Wretched Sights.
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| By Brendan Patrick |
Brendan Patrick is a blind artist, but he hasn't always been blind. While fighting a lifelong battle with cystic fibrosis, Brendan lost his vision at the age of 26 due to complications from treatment. Having been an artist his entire life, Brendan had to find new ways to create. Through trial and error Brendan has devised a new technique using a raised texture so that he can feel his painting. He also selects his paints by labeling all his colors with braille. Currently, Brendan is the subject of a documentary being filmed about his daily successes and struggles titled “Can't See Sh*t” by local indie filmmaker Rob Cousineau. Brendan's artwork has been showcased at different galleries across the nation. He also does public speaking events, all in attempt to raise public awareness of cystic fibrosis.
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| By Tom Beste |
Tom Beste works in a variety of mediums and has been a professional tattoo artist for the past decade. He was originally taught how to tattoo by Brendan before his friend lost his sight. Tom works at Eternal Tattoos in Eastpointe and has been employed there for the past seven years. Tom's media of choice for the exhibit is oil paint on canvas. His subject matter is intentionally cerebral, both sensual and macabre with a dynamic use of color.
By attending the show you will support the awareness for cystic fibrosis as all monies collected at the door for entry will be donated to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. $10 per person for entry. Included with entry is a chance to win an original collaborated painting by Brendan and Tom, via raffle. Live performances will entertain throughout the night and there will be pizza and refreshments served.
The date is SATURDAY, JANUARY 28 at 7 pm-1 am and all ages are welcome. Studio 8700 is located at 8700 W. Nine Mile Rd, Oak Park, MI 48237, phone number is 248-965-2832 and more information can be found on their website www.studio8700.com.
For more information about the artists please visit their websites at www.tombesteart.com and facebook.com/