Dirty Linen, One Hot Night

July 28, 2014
With summer temperatures nearing 100 degrees, Dirty Linen is possibly the only way New Orleans can get any hotter. Dirty Linen, One Hot Night is the French Quarter's largest summer block party, celebrating artists, galleries, street performers and the creative culture of New Orleans. The event is presented by the Arts Council of New Orleans with support from IBERIABANK and Hendrick's Gin. On Saturday, August 9th from 6 - 10 p.m. nine blocks of Royal Street galleries and boutiques will be open their doors for revelers to experience the best of French Quarter art.

This year, AFA Gallery will be showing a highly anticipated exhibit inspired by dirty little secrets. This wildly imaginative exhibition, which features surrealist artists Tim Burton, Travis Louis, Ray Caesar and many more, indulges the senses with layers of symbolism and darkness. The Lisa Victoria Gallery plans to up the cool factor this year by featuring 17-year-old artist Lacey Beth. Other contemporary art stops not to miss along Royal Street include Antineau Gallery, Angela King Gallery, and Gallery Orange.

Longtime favorite spaces will also be open from Bevolo demonstrating the artistry and design of classic New Orleans gas lamps, Craig Tracy Gallery featuring his painted alive body art, Fischer Gambino will sparkle with antiques and chandeliers, and of course, guests do not want to miss the world-famous blue dog at the George Rodrigue Studios. Dirty Linen offers a shopping experience for diverse tastes and price points for every wallet, so those without walls to fill can also discover great fashion and jewelry finds at boutiques and shops among the art spaces.

Outside, the Arts Council is also spicing things up on Royal Street. Guests can taste the roundup of local food truck fare, curated by My House Nola featuring La Cocinita, Food Drunk, The Cluck Truck and more delicious eats while enjoying music of New Orleans street buskers. Revelers looking to cool off can enjoy a refreshing cocktail created by USGB bartenders, at one of the imaginative Hendrick's Gin bar experiences or snag a complimentary water from one of the IBERIABANK tents.

After Royal Street shops close, the Lux Lounge offers the perfect way to turn up the heat. The official Dirty Linen after party organized by the Arts Council and hosted at the iconic French Quarter landmark, the Lux Lounge at Latrobe's (403 Royal Street) opens from 9pm-midnight. A $30 ticket will give guests access to not only the beautiful venue, but complimentary cocktails, delicious food, and coveted air conditioning. Partygoers will dance the night away with music from DJ RQ Away and line dances lead by Dancing Grounds instructors. Crescent City Circus performers will make a cameo appearance along with New Orleans Men of Leather who will be checking tickets at the door. Lux Lounge tickets are limited and can be purchased in advance online or at the Arts Council information tent across the street from Latrobe's the night of the event.

For more information on Dirty Linen or to purchase tickets visit: www.artcouncilofneworleans.org or call the Arts Council of New Orleans at (504)523-1465.