Glitter Glue and Googly Eyes: Toy Joy Art Show [Art Preview]

Ahh, Toy Joy... no other business can capture the overstimulating ethos of Keeping Austin Weird quite like they do. This Thursday, everyone's favorite retailer of inflatable horses, sushi shaped erasers, and self-adhesive mustaches is hosting their second annual art show, The Fine Art of Fun. This family friendly art spectacular will feature work that exemplifies Toy Joy's adoration for all things cute and creepy. Thursday's show will appeal to kids and grown-ups alike with pieces created by local artists, some of whom are part of Toy Joy's talented staff.

Look for work by comic artist,illustrator, and squid stitcher, Kristin Hogan. Hogan, whose day job is working at the magical Blue Genie Art Industry factory, is the author of Dead Squirrel Girl comics and has also participated numerous times in the 24 Hour Comics Day event. Sculptor Ron Rydzfski of FierceFurious will have work in the show. Working with polymer clays, Rydzfski work is obviously inspired by b-movies, H.P. Lovecraft, and pulp fiction. Keep an eye out for work by the multi-talented Tessa Morrison (who would love to work Neil Gaiman or the Jim Henson Company, in case you're out there!). Morrison's diverse portfolio includes scientific illustration, printmaking, jewelry design, bookbinding, and tattoo design (of both the permanent and temporary variety).

The Fine Art of Fun is a free, one night only show and takes place on Thursday, July 8th from 7pm to midnight at the United States Art Authority. Musical entertainment will be provided by Achachay, The Sour Notes, Mother Falcon, and The Department of Public Safety. Tasty sponsors of the show include GoodPop, Tom's Tabooley, Sugar Mama's Bakeshop, and Maine Root. Chew well!