The vibrant East Austin community is known for its thriving art scene, eclectic music venues, and unique landmarks. One of the most popular events in the area is the East Austin Studio Tour, which showcases the work of local artists and provides a platform for them to connect with the community. But there’s more to East Austin than just art – it’s also home to some of the best music venues in the city, including the iconic Mohawk Austin. And for those who are looking for something truly out of the ordinary, the Cathedral of Junk is a must-see.
The East Austin Studio Tour is an annual event that takes place over two weekends in November. It features over 500 artists who open up their studios to the public, giving visitors a chance to see their work up close and to talk to the artists themselves. The tour is a great way to discover new artists, explore different neighborhoods in East Austin, and get a sense of the vibrant community that exists here.
One of the most popular music venues in East Austin is the Mohawk Austin. This iconic club has been a fixture in the community since it opened in 2006 and has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Spoon, The Black Keys, and Arcade Fire. The Mohawk is known for its eclectic lineup of shows, ranging from indie rock to hip hop to electronic music. And with two stages and an outdoor patio, there’s plenty of space to enjoy the music and the lively atmosphere.
For those looking for something truly unique, the Cathedral of Junk is a must-see. This towering sculpture is made entirely out of recycled materials, and features everything from old bicycles to discarded car parts. It was created by Vince Hannemann, who started building it in his backyard in the 1980s. Today, the Cathedral of Junk is a beloved landmark in East Austin, and visitors come from all over the world to see it.
So what connects these three things – the East Austin Studio Tour, the Mohawk Austin, and the Cathedral of Junk? It’s the spirit of creativity and community that exists in East Austin. Whether you’re an artist looking for inspiration, a music lover searching for the next big thing, or simply someone who appreciates the unconventional, East Austin has something to offer. As Vince Hannemann himself said, “It’s about recycling, it’s about creativity, it’s about community.” And that’s what makes East Austin such a special place.
References:
– “East Austin Studio Tour”, Big Medium, https://east.bigmedium.org/
– “Mohawk Austin”, Mohawk Austin, https://mohawkaustin.com/
– “Cathedral of Junk”, Atlas Obscura, https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/cathedral-of-junk