New to the Austin art scene, IEI Austin is a gallery and events project showcasing artists who cultivate and advance principles of sustainability in both concept and materials.

“It’s Environmentally Inspired,” IEI Austin’s debut show, runs throughout the month of February. The show will be installed in the historic estate of renowned architect David Graeber at 410 East Sixth Street. Graeber, one of the first to embrace Austin urban living, converted an 1880 saloon into a multi-level, 4600-square-foot home in the late 1960s. 

Thank you to Larry Graeber for facilitating the use of the space along with Skilled Reps (skilledreps.com) who recently purchased the home to use as a corporate headquarters. The showcase features upcycled works by artists including Jim Adams, Kristy Battani, Larry Graeber, Jenn Hassin, Soña Holman, Shanny Lott, Wells Mason, Flynnt Mishagen, Nan Toole, and Matt Winters. 

“We are very excited about hosting the arts community within this architecturally significant building. It is our collective responsibility to preserve historic architecture and support the arts while balancing enterprise and sustainability,” states Lowell M. Smith, Vice President of Skilled Reps.

From an artistic viewpoint, “upcycling” produces extraordinary objects out of post-industrial materials. As a broader economic concept, upcycling creates jobs while helping to preserve the environment. “It takes a lot more work to make something of value from discarded items than to just toss them in a landfill,” said IEI Austin Director Rhonda Rougeau.

“IEI Austin’s goal is to foster a visual arts community connected around the theme of sustainability, and supported by businesses and brands that care about people, culture, and the planet,” added Rougeau. “We’re a roving gallery concept now, but we have plans to build out a permanent space with sustainable art as a the backdrop for diverse events—from weddings to business to educational and community events.

Opening Show: Feb 7, 6:00–8:00 pm
Closing Show: Feb 27, 6:00–8:00 pm
Both events free and open to the public.

Other February Events at the Graeber Estate

February 6: International Interior Design Austin Student Awards and CEU
(Private Event)
Women and Wine. New Members Welcome. 
Information at: http://www.womenwinewednesday.com/pg-12-1-events.aspx

February 9: Supper Underground
Tickets available at: supperunderground.com

February 14: Bubbly Lounge: Valentine’s sparkling wine pairings. 7:00–9:00 pm
Tickets available at: ieiaustin.com/bubbly

February 21: Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce: 6:30–8:30 pm
New Members Welcome. Information at: http://www.aglcc.org/

February 23: Pitchfork Supper Club: http://pitchforksupperclub.blogspot.com/

Visit ieiaustin.com or facebook.com/ieiaustin for a full list of events.
Photos available at http://www.flickr.com/photos/ieiaustin/

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About IEI Austin

IEI Austin provides marketing, event concepts, arts consulting, and interior design solutions for forward thinking clients interested in ecology and design. IEI Austin Director Rhonda Rougeau is a LEED-certified, registered interior designer with experience in large-scale preservation projects and industry education. Prior to establishing IEI Austin, Rougeau ran two galleries in Houston’s thriving visual arts community. She currently serves on the Board of Hive Houston, a planned live/work artist community and works with clients in both Austin and Houston.

Contact:

 

Natasha Harper-Madison

Eco Chic Floral
512-970-7579
http://www.ecochicfloral.com/