Ever wondered what it would be like to be a part of the NYC and Berlin underground art scene? Warhol’s infamous experimental piece, Exploding Plastic Inevitable, with the Velvet Underground, and the spectacular multimedia projection displays are the stuff of legend. This spring, you can watch all of the colors collide at BYOB (Bring Your Own Beamer).
Organized by the Aurora Picture Show and The Menil Collection, BYOB is a free annual projection festival held on the Menil’s front lawn. Here, visitors are invited to bring their own projectors, cast them out on the museum’s facade, and gaze as the images, shapes, and colors clash. Of course, attendants sans projectors are likewise invited to sit and admire the wonderful displays.
The original idea for the festival was inspired by visual artist Rafaël Rozendaal, who pioneered the Bring Your Own Beemer exhibition concept.
“Houston’s unique, springtime projection festival on the museum’s sprawling front lawn has become a tradition for participants and picnicking audiences alike. All are invited to contribute their own video, film, overhead projector, or slide imagery to the experience,” the event’s website reads.
The event takes place on the Menil front lawn at 1533 Sul Ross from 8:30 pm to 10:30 pm on Saturday, May 7. Organizers invite attendants to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and noshes if desired; if not the latter, the event will also have the Moon Rooster food truck and Popston popsicle cart on the grounds. Admission is free.
Those interested in participating in the projection displays must register on Aurora’s website by April 26 to procure a time slot.
In the event of rain, the festival will be rescheduled for Saturday, May 14 from 8:30 – 10:30 pm.