Lady of Graves’ Steampunk Bizarre 2011 Report

The following report was written by Jessica Lilley, The Lady of Graves, and slightly helped and edited by E. Ortiz.

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The current Steampunk Bizarre is an exhibit featuring the works of 21 International Artists that explores the unknown alternative world of Steampunk and Mark Twain. A complete Steampunk experience like no other, featuring special events, performances and interactive oddities! It got started in 2009 by Doctor Grymm of Doctor Grymm Laboratories (a.k.a. Joey Marsocci of http://www.drgrymmlaboratories.com/). This is the third year of the exhibit and from now, until mid-January you can expect to find all kinds of new and interactive art, viewings of the completed I AM STEAMPUNK documentary and many fun events. To find out more about where and why the annual Steampunk Bizarre got started, go see the exhibit and attend one of the viewings of I AM STEAMPUNK! You can also learn a little about what Steampunk actually is, if you aren’t sure. It’s a great film.

The whole night was surreal and amazing . There were over 500 people on opening night and the museum staff said it was the most successful event ever held at the Mark Twain House. All the people who came through were incredibly friendly. I met so many amazing people that night. It’s really humbling to meet your fans. (Editor’s Note: The Lady of Graves was not only reporting about the Steampunk Bizarre but her work was featured in this exhibit.) I didn’t even know I had fans before that night! Though, seeing all the new, amazing art was definitely a highlight. There were so many artists that I admire in the show, to see brand new work by them in person was really incredible. The entire exhibit is just epic and I’m so honored to be a part of it.

I mainly took pictures of the exhibits for people who cannot attend to see. The only thing is, you REALLY have to read the stories that go along with the art. I couldn’t really capture all that with just a camera. There is also light, sound and interactive elements. It really is worth the time and the trip to see in person. I also took some pictures of the crowds, just to document how many people were visiting, though was so distracted by all the sights and people most of the night, I completely forgot to take pictures of the artists and individuals! Once the people started piling in, I almost forgot I had a camera.

The exhibit runs from now  until January 15th. You should see it now and see it again later because I hear Doctor Grymm is adding new artwork from time to time, throughout the duration of the exhibit. I know I’ll be heading back down there soon. Not to mention the special events! For instance, on October 21st there is a masquerade ball. You can find all the details about the ball here: https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=142568435840871 I believe more events will be announced soon too.

The Steampunk Bizarre is located at The Mark Twain House and Museum on 351 Farmington Avenue, Hartford, Connecticut.

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All photographs belong to Jessica Lilley.

Jessica Lilley (also known as The Lady of Graves) is a freelance photographer & mixed media artist living in the Boston area. You can learn more about her, where she will be and what she does at her blog. If you would like to contact her about photographing your event, commissioning an art piece or just want to say hi, you can use the contact form on the blog or email her at ladyofgraves[at]gmail[dot]com! This pictorial is only some of the amazing work The Lady has done. If you like what you see here and wish to see the full set, check out her Flickr account here!

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