When we started making jewellery in 2006 we didn’t know many local artists and artisans.  It was a hobby we both enjoyed and we decided to participate in some local art shows and craft fairs for fun and to see how people responded to our work.

We enjoyed the first few shows and kept at it over the next few years.  One of the things we found difficult was trying to decide in which shows to participate, not knowing the communities or organizers, it’s always a bit of a gamble.  About a year ago, I was introduced to Marcus Lamoureux through a mutual friend and later found out he is the founder and organizer of Basement Artists.

When Marcus founded Basement Artists, he wanted to dedicate himself to the promotion and showcase of local Ottawa musicians and artists.  Being an artist himself, he felt this type of group could really benefit the local community.  With some time, hard work and personal effort, Marcus created a type of art show unique to the Ottawa community.  His shows bring in people from all around the area, local artists as well as art lovers.  These evenings of music and art give musicians and artists the opportunity to reach a much larger audience then they would otherwise be able to.

In September 2010, Basement Artists celebrated their 50^th music and art show at the Mercury Lounge in the Byward Market.  Each show combines performances by talented local bands with displays of impressive local artists and artisans.  This combination allows audiences a glimpse into a world of underground art and music that isn’t always readily accessible.  The shows take place at a variety of local venues and occur at least once a month.

Drakestail Jewellery had their first show with Basement Artists in the summer 2010.  We’re very happy to be a part of this local group of artists and musicians.  This helps us to reach a larger audience which is, of course, important but even more important is the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, to network with them and to be a part of a community that is larger then just ourselves.  We feel very fortunate to have joined Basement Artists and to have met Marcus, as well as the other wonderful and talented people who work with Basement Artists.

Our next Basement Artists show will be on Saturday, January 29^th at Babylon Night Club in Ottawa, starting at 7:00 P.M.  We’d love to see you there!

If our post has piqued your curiosity about the organization, please visit their website here: www.basementartists.org

Or learn more about them by watching their interview on Rogers TV here: http://www.rogerstv.com/page.aspx?lid=237&rid=4&sid=68&gid=76123