There’s food, there’s drink, and it’s a lovely opportunity to do something in a town that’s often described by young people as having “nothing to do.”

On the first Friday of every month art galleries have special evening showings throughout the Fairbanks area from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. and take on various themes, sometimes independent of one another, sometimes in collaboration.

At the Well Street Art Company on Well Street, they featured “The Bones Show,” showcasing many pieces that depicted, referenced, or otherwise used bones in the art making process.

If you walk into the building before October 27, you’ll be greeted by a life-sized amalgamation of metal and bone depicting a running deer (perhaps caribou, it was hard to tell). The Well St. Art Company featured a number of artists associated with the university, including Craig Cheldinas, Anna Ramsburgh, Mary Matthews, Todd Sherman, David Mollett, and Jim Brashear. I highly recommend chasing down one of Mary Matthews’ life-size beehive dresses, which are some of the most impressive mixed media art pieces this writer as ever seen.

At the Bear Gallery, located within what is commonly know as the “birthday cake building” in Pioneer Park, there was a non-themed show with more food and drink. Those who have a weak constitution should avoid eye contact with the cream puffs.

Next stop on the list was the Annex Gallery, located between Ester and Fairbanks on the Parks Highway. UAF drawing instructor and cartoonist, Jamie Smith curates the gallery. Circling the room, I was surprised to find a piece from UAF alum Jason Lazarus on the wall.

These aren’t the only galleries to have showings on first Fridays. This month alone there were 17 different locations, including The Artworks: located next to the College Coffeehouse, Tundra Walker Studio: located on Hooper Avenue off of College Road, and New Horizons Gallery: located downtown on First Avenue.