Things can feel like a bit of a circus heading into the high season in Key West. Naturally, two artists are embracing the concept of clowns for one big visual impact. Illustrator Kristyn LaMoia and performer Nina Pilar are teaming up for a night of new work and shows on Feb. 28 titled “Fancy Clown” upstairs General Horseplay at HiNote Bar.
Over the past few months, LaMoia sifted through the inspiration from her summer in New York City and repeatedly returned to her experiences with one curious group she described as a “clown cult scene” — a tight-knit group of people that threw really good ridiculous clown parties. Those same events unlocked new ideas for LaMoia, who felt that the sheer silliness of artwork built around this theme could be a needed boost for what she describes as dark times.
While LaMoia toyed with that idea, she also observed the rise of Nina Pilar’s experimental Hush Hush Theater. The new nonprofit mounted shows that saw popular spots like La Concha and 801 Bourbon packed for one-night only showcases of live music, burlesque, cabaret, and cirque.
Given that LaMoia knew that her show would also be one night and probably tied to an opening party, she reached out to Pilar to combine resources and thrill.
“I have always loved clowns and I definitely know that clowns are very divisive and polarizing for people,” Pilar admitted. “And so, that’s interesting to me. The Hush Hush Theater has had clowns from the beginning. Every show has incorporated clown work and mimes in some way.”
She personally views clowns as having the potential to mirror what we may be unwilling to see in ourselves. She added that a clown’s act is often to make mistakes and recover from them over and over again.
At the 6 p.m. opening, viewers will see LaMoia’s artwork, created on blotting paper, featuring small designs in a mix of watercolor, color pencils, and acrylic. All bearing a twinge of psychedelic futurism.
Afterwards, ticket holders, dressed to the “luxurious circus galactica” theme, will be invited to stay for one of two performances by The Hush Hush Theater at 9 and 10:30 p.m. Capping the night will be a free afterparty with music by DJ Max Irwin, bringing the entire proceedings up to three distinct parts.
While the hope is for many to experience the entire night, anyone who wants to come to just the after party or the art show is welcome, while tickets to the live performances will remain available till the day of the event.
The two artists have drawn similar audiences to their respective openings and performances, a mix of ages who appreciate surprises and quirky entertainment that deviate from the standard Duval Street attractions. Both incorporate a sense of play, seduction, and cool girl aesthetics that promise this time to send in the fancy clowns for a fun night.
Fancy Clown
SAT FEB 28
HiNote | General Horseplay
Art reception: 6-8 p.m.
Live shows: 9 & 10:30 p.m.
