There are plenty of parties going on this week, and that’s just counting art parties. Heck, the Mattress Factory alone is hosting two events this weekend.

But you’re unlikely to get more fun for a few bucks than at AIR’s annual shindig (just a few blocks from the Mattress Factory, as it happens), from 5-10 p.m. tomorrow.

AIR is regionally unique: It’s a hub for local artists, especially those who do printmaking. It supports its own artists in residence as well as independent artists with work space; exhibits their work; and even provides open workshop space two nights a week, with access to printing screens.

Besides the screenprinting shop, this big facility includes an intaglio (etching) shop, a lithography shop and a digital-imaging lab. You can even do bookbinding, papermaking and letterpress there.
And the Sat., June 18, event is the perfect introduction. It’s a party, with printing activities (of course), live music, food and drink.
There’s also plenty of art, including installation works by Dick Esterle and Kimi Hanauer, and a display of portfolios by area artists organized by Gene Marsh and friends (the latter with a Flash Gordon theme). Local poster legend Mike Budai and the Power Up Girls will be doing some printing. And the bands include Low Man, Allies and Middle Children.

A $5 donation is requested.
AIR is located at 518 Foreland St. 412-321-8664 or www.artistsimageresource.org