A completely different venue has been added to the Bay Street entertainment district.
SoLo Gallery at 107 E. Bay St., near Underbelly, is unlike any other performance venue Downtown. It doesn’t have regular hours or cater to a particular genre or audience.
That’s the point, said Director and Curator Jamison Williams.
“I think of this as a community outreach program. It’s a place where artists, musicians and performers can express themselves without limitations,” he said.
Williams is a musician and entertainment producer who has performed at local clubs and venues including Burro Bar, Shantytown Pub and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Williams, who said he’s into thrash jazz, noise and experimental music, said the club sets itself apart by offering very little, making it unlike other clubs and performance spaces.
“So many performers are looking for a place to play, but they are turned down because what they do doesn’t fit a particular club’s format or clientele,” he said.
“SoLo is a place that can’t be compared to any place you’ve ever been. We are beyond indie. Whatever it is you experience here, I want it to be ridiculous, amazing and awe-inspiring,” Williams said.
The nonprofit performance art space is different from its neighbors along the street. SoLo doesn’t sell beverages or food and there is no in-house sound and light system.
“It’s BYOE – bring your own everything,” said Williams.
He said the only rules are don’t act like a fool and don’t disrespect the space.
“If you do, we’ll remember you and you won’t be back,” Williams said.
To contact Williams about booking the venue or for more information about SoLo Gallery, visit sologallery.org.
356-2466