The Preview Event: A Closer Look

Spudnik Press Cooperative is midway through our seventh year of public programming. Since 2007, we have been offering access to professional printing equipment, high-quality education, exhibition opportunities, youth workshops, and so much more. And each fall we have brought together a diverse assortment of artwork from talented artists available via silent auction, with all the proceeds benefiting our humble non-profit.

This year, we are adding an exclusive preview event. Guests contributing at the $50 level are invited to join Spudnik Press staff, guest curators, and featured artists for a special two hours of program, prior to General Admission. Here’s what to expect from this new portion of our benefit:

Gourmet Mexican Street Food and Tapas by El Metro & Gaudi Cafe

All guests will enjoy fresh new flavors from El Metro, our neighborhoods newest restaurant at the corner of Damen and Chicago. Operated by the owners of Gaudi Cafe, El Metro is serving up a street food inspired menu. Stop by the preview event for a chance to preview their offerings!

Live Jazz presented by Elastic Arts

Elastic Arts, our guest curator for the 2015 Ten x Ten, brings us a live performance by three of Chicago’s most loved jazz musicians, Paul Giallorenzo, Anton Hatwich, and Frank Rosaly.

Early Bidding

Guests at our preview event will have the exclusive opportunity to place early bids on the artwork and other auction items. Preview guests will even be able to leave a maximum bid with staff, should they leave the benefit prior to the closing of the auction.

Open Bar

From 5-7pm, our bartenders will be mixing up extra cocktails for thirsty guests. One of the first tasks of our Benefit Committee was to select the featured cocktails. Chosen by popular vote, after rigorous taste testing, we’ll be mixing up a refreshing red wine cocktail, a spicey tequila cocktail, and more. Metropolitan beer will be on tap, and we’ll have plenty of Goose Island Root Beer for those abstaining from alcohol.

Live Printing / Hand Printed Gift for Every Guest

Spudnik Press has brand new swag debuting at our benefit. Each guest will take home a handprinted gift designed by Craig Hansen and printed in house. Those feeling adventurous can print their own gift with our Vandercook printing press. Staff will be on hand to explain the craft of letterpress printing, how and why artists continue to flock to this medium.

Meet the Artists & Curators

The auction brings together an exciting selection of artists hand picked by five of Chicago’s most talented curators. Over the next week, we’ll be sharing a handful of the artworks available at the auction, and on Monday September 29th, we’ll post the complete list of all 50 artists. Arrive early to mix and mingle.