Ground up: the Basement Artists

by Nicholas Ruest

Basement Artists is a collective of artists from a wide variety of genres—argely music and visual art—that produces high quality local art that is displayed in Centretown galleries and bars.

Marcus Lamoureux is the director of Basement Artists, who gather regularly in Centretown on Bell Street. Lamoureux has been involved in music and art promotion and production in Centretown for nearly seven years. He is known for his style of art, which often involves recycled materials coordinated with broken skateboards. His art is environmentally friendly and in demand among a local group of followers. As the director of Basement Artists, he is also responsible for promoting shows and exhibitions. On May 12, they held a successful event at Babylon Nightclub in Centretown to gain more exposure and support from Centretown residents.

Carolyne Brodeur is one of the major contributors to the Basement Artists organization. Brodeur became interested in doing art at about the same age most children begin to read. She specializes in acrylic and mixed media art. Some of Brodeur’s art can be found on the walls of local venues like Oh So Good, The Buzz Restaurant and Pilates Patio. When asked what keeps her artistic drive going she said, “Being around other artists is the biggest inspiration for me.”

The Basement Artists have a highly diverse portfolio that features a variety of styles and artistic contributions from their members. Kelsey Rose Gravelle is the head of photography in this organization. She has been involved with the Basement Artists since the beginning of 2012. Her eye-catching prints can be found in establishments in the ByWard Market as well as in the upcoming Babylon art shows in Centretown this July, September and November. The latest place you may find her photo prints is the Morala Cafe in the Glebe.

If you were unable to make it out to the art exhibit featuring the Basement Artists at Babylon on May 12, you should look forward to the next event which is slated for July 2012. For more information on upcoming events visit basementartists.org.