HighBall Halloween

TONIGHT'S THE NIGHT!!

2011-10-28T08:46:00.000-04:00

Come on out to HIGHBALL for the most fashionable fun you'll have all year!

The Ice Princess is ready, are you?
Style courtesy of Wendy Goldstein, Costume Specialties & Tim Mauer of Mukha Cosmetics.

Thanks for checking out all the great stories on our blog over the last few weeks. Huge thanks to Sheree Greco of IM Creative, Maria Galloway, Gina Valentine, Liz Martino, Nicki Smith, Courtney Winnen, and all of the folks at the Short North Arts District who helped make our vision of HighBall a REALITY!

See you tonight to witness transformations - WHO WILL YOU BE?

The Man Who Dressed the Tarantula

2011-10-27T09:00:00.003-04:00

Jonathen Kinney of Columbus Airbrush will be the artist responsible for the look our eight-foot, eight-legged friend Stella the Spider will be wearing at HighBall. Check out this chat to hear a little more about this artist and his airbrush skills.

What exactly does your studio do?

We specialize in air brushing. We will customize anything brought into us. We’ve done murals, body art shows, costume retouching. We’ve done a few motorcycles but not much automotive stuff. We mostly do a lot of shirts and apparel.

It sounds like you really keep busy. Where else might we see your work?

Everywhere! There are murals all over and some bikes around town. We work with Mascot Organization to do some of the local mascots. We have worked with Budweiser, Columbus Dog Connection, and Broadview Bloodbath, a haunted house in, connection with Midwest Honors Connection.

How did you first get involved in the arts?

I’ve been involved in art my entire life and airbrushing for fifteen years now. I saw someone do it when I was sixteen, and I said “That is what I want to do.” Its important to do what you want for a living.

Agreed. What is your favorite project that you have worked on?

My favorite is probably a personal project of mine. I made a seven foot six Transformer costume. I won the WNCI costume contest a few years ago and a few other competitions. It was just cardboard and duct tape that I air brushed. I’m thinking of bringing it back out for HighBall.

That would be amazing! How did you get involved with the HighBall tarantula?

Broadview Bloodbath got me in touch with it. Robin Walters called saying they were looking for someone to paint this giant spider and I made arrangements with MaryEllen from HighBall. It sounded interesting, even though I’m pretty afraid of spiders. I just thought it sounded great to paint a spider the size of a truck.

Do you have a favorite scary movie or monster?

Umm, probably Paranormal Activity. I just saw the third and it was pretty good.

What are you most looking forward to at HighBall?

Oh, all the unique costumes. Some people spend so much time and effort. It really shows what a person can do.

What is your favorite part of Halloween?

Giving out candy to the kids. I really enjoy it. I like the Reese’s cups but can't eat them because I will get too fat.

The Man Behind the Monsters: Tommy Pietch

2011-10-26T15:00:00.000-04:00

This year's HighBall theme of TRANSFORMATIONS has sparked an amazing collaboration between Columbus' BALLET MET and renowned make-up artist Tommy Pietch of ELEPHANTOM Make-up & Effects.

Pietch & his team will transform dancers from BalletMet into couture versions of classic Hollywood Monsters, right before your eyes. But this isn't your Momma's make-up. Take a look at some of these photos of Pietch's work to get a sense of what makes this artist a monster in the make-up world.

HighBall Performances include Zombies, Transvestites, and Demons, OH MY!

2011-10-26T09:00:00.001-04:00

This year’s HighBall Halloween will be full of theatrical fun as many of Columbus’ best theatre companies will be giving “spooktacular” performances.

Short North Stage, CATCO, Olympic Theatre and Imagine Productions all will participating in this year’s celebration. All 4 companies will be taking the stage throughout the night doing numbers from their current productions, many Halloween themed.

Short North Stage will be kicking off the night at 8 p.m. with a performance from their production of Steven Sondheim’s Follies, the inaugural musical at the reopened Garden Theatre.

“Our group will performing the opening number from Follies, ‘Beautiful Girls.’ It will be a way to introduce our showgirls,” said Rick Gore, co-founder of the Short North Stage and Follies producer.

The company from the Olympic Theatre, Columbus’ “boldest, hottest, bar theatre,” will take the stage soon after, at 9 p.m., to perform pieces from their production of Zombie Prom.

“We have been on the design team for the giant puppets and will be acting as the puppeteers for the evening. Our company will also be performing on the main stage a medley from Zombie Prom to showcase the diversity, strength, talent and creativity of our company,” Decker added.

“Our company's performance involvement is two fold,” said Todd Decker, a co-founder of the group.

Next on the theatre schedule is CATCO, taking the stage to do a number from their current production of Evil Dead- the Musical, a show all about college students who unleash an evil demon and the trusty hero that saves them from its wrath.

“Becoming a part of the celebration feeds our company’s desire to push our own limits,” Anderson mentions, regarding his company’s involvement with this year’s HighBall celebration.

“In the spirit of Halloween we will be performing ‘Do the Necronomicon’ from Evil Dead- the Musical,” said Steven Anderson, Artistic Director of CATCO.

Finally, the very last performance of the night will take place at midnight when Imagine Productions fuels the Halloween spirit with a performance from The Rocky Horror Show. The performance is sure to feed HighBall goers fix for Rocky Horror, a Halloween tradition for many.

For all of these groups, there is a sense of excitement for being able to perform at HighBall Halloween, such a great, new tradition for Columbus.

“HighBall is a paradigm for community involvement,” says Decker. “It is an example of what can be done when a group of people stretch their boundaries by asking themselves ‘What if?’ Columbus in general and the Short North in particular are creative hubs. HighBall draws bold attention to who we are as a city.”

Designer Q&A: Aaron James

2011-10-25T16:00:00.004-04:00

The HighBall runway this year is going to be overflowing with talent from our area's designers! Among those featured will be Aaron James of Ruby Hill. Check out this chat we had with him to get a preview of what to expect from his looks this Friday!

How did you get into the world of fashion?

I used to be in theatre. I was a professional dancer. I segued into fashion. I moved to New York and worked for Macy’s doing window displays, and I never looked back.

How would you describe your design aesthetic?

It’s glamour, but it’s an accessible glamour. Ordinary women can wear it, but it definitely has an over the top feel without being too much.

What are you using as inspiration for the work you’ll be showing at HighBall?

I was telling a friend, it’s glamazon alien. It’s about these glamorous alien women who were too glamorous for their own planet so they came down to earth to party it up with us.

What are some of your major design influences?

Karl Lagerfeld. Chanel. Donna Karan because I love how simple her lines are. That’s how I mix the simple lines with the sparkle and all that.

Who are you wearing RIGHT NOW?

You weren’t supposed to ask me that! Addias track pants, an old beat up red shirt and an H&M cardigan.

If you could design an outfit for a celebrity to wear on the red carpet who would you want to dress and why?

Sarah Jessica Parker. She loves to take risks. She could wear anything and look amazing. Clearly, she wouldn’t be afraid of the glam side.

Where do you see yourself and your career in five years?

I’m hoping to move back to New York. I want to go back and forth between Columbus and New York. I want to open up a boutique in Columbus, and bring big city style to this city.

What do you think separates a costume from regular clothing?

In my opinion, costumes are acceptable everyday. Clothing makes you feel good. If you feel good dressing up as say a galactic, glamorous alien, do it.

What’s the best way for fans of your work to keep tabs on you or even purchase some of

your pieces?

Facebook. Type in Ruby Hill by Aaron James, and it’ll take you directly to my page. All the contact info, like email and phone number, is there.

Be at HighBall on Friday, October 28th to see for yourself what a Glamazon Alien looks like. See you there!

Short North Fashion Find: BRIGADE

2011-10-25T09:00:00.004-04:00

BRIGADE is one of the hottest fashion trendsetters in Columbus, and we're thrilled they'll be taking part in this year's HighBall. Check out our conversation with Larry from Brigade to learn more...

Photo by Dewey Moore

What made you want to be involved in HighBall this year?

HighBall shines a spotlight on the Shorth North, its blossoming arts culture, and the boutiques, galleries and local artists that comprise that creative collective.

Why do you think so many fashion artists call Columbus home?

Columbus is a progressive city that is receptive to change and embraces artistic expression. There is still an emerging art and fashion scene that has yet to truly be defined and this leaves a great opportunity for artist and designers to contribute to that foundation.

How would you describe the design aesthetic of the looks you’ll be sending down the

runway?

Transformative, in line with this years HighBall Halloween theme.

Who is your favorite designer?

Ha! How could anyone have a favorite when there are so many creative juggernauts out there? All jokes aside, it may sound cliche but Alexander McQueen was the dude, Galliano for his showmanship, Nicolas Ghesquiere for Balenciaga, Paul Smith, Vivian Westwood, Betsy Johnson, Rick Owens, Gianfranco Ferre, Marcus and David for Rag and Bone ....

What is your favorite Halloween candy, and why?

Candy corn because it reminds me of my grandmother. I think she had it in her house all year round.

What kinds of items can people find at your shop that they might not get to see on the

runway?

Versatile pieces that they can build a wardrobe around and enjoy for years to come.

How would you describe Columbus style?

In general pretty casual but at times surprisingly fun. I've seen everything you can imagine on High St.

To see Brigade's looks on the runway, be at HighBall on Friday October 28th!

Electric Looks: Sharon Stewart will turn you on at HighBall!

2011-10-24T18:00:00.001-04:00

We sat down to interview Sharon Stewart. Sharon is creating one grand look to open the show, and you will NOT want to miss it. This outfit is extremely large scale and time consuming but Sharon graciously took a little break to chat with us. Read on!

Photo by Kaylee Davis

How did you first get into fashion?

My mom is seamstress. When I was little I would spend hours looking at pattern books and in stores with her. She really helped me expand on ideas. As an adult in Colorado, I started my own alternation business and within a year, I managed the costume shop for Western State College in Dennison, CO. From there it kind of took off. I definitely consider myself a costume designer, not fashion. I don’t really do any ready-to-wear.

How would you describe your overall design aesthetic?

I prefer theater costuming so it stems from the character I am designing for and the intended portrayal to audience. It is not about aesthetic but more about communication. I like to observe staging and the director before I work on a costume. I usually start with a color palette then prioritize the work by what costumes are seen the most and work down from there. I work on everything as a collection and keep referring back to what I have done and making additions. It is never just one outfit at a time when it comes to designing for a production.

What is your inspiration for the piece you will be featuring at HighBall?

I took 2 words that are themes for HighBall this year, “transformation” and “glow,” and let my imagination run. My general inspiration came from those words. There will be a performance aspect and the concept is about where we are as humans, where we are headed, and who we are going to become. I’m a self-professed Sci-Fi nerd. This is definitely the most time I have allotted for one costume and it is the biggest scale I’ve done.

Who or what are your major design influences?

Electronics are big a influence. My husband does work in robotics and that is why we moved here. This costume has some of that but I’m not giving everything away. It will still be a surprise at Highball. He has really helped me with this creation though and we will both be on stage to help reveal it. I will say the head piece is so grand that it probably weighs forty pounds. My husband built a metal “ribcage” support structure that sits on the models waist to disperse the weight but we will still need to assist her with the transformation.

Wow, I can’t wait for the unveiling. Now tell me, who are you wearing right now?

Oh, I’m a thrift store nerd. I like the idea that things don’t need to end when someone is done with them. I made a pact with myself that as much as possible, I’m only going to shop from thrift stores this year for “designer wear.”

That is really great. We love the vintage look. So, if you could design a costume for any movie, who would it be and why?

I would love to work on a movie that is about the connection between the current reality of technology and where it is going and a prediction of where the Sci-Fi genre thinks it could go. I would love to costume the show Firefly in more techy way than the current western/steampunk look. I would want to combine steam punk and futuristic, electronic elements.

Where do you see yourself and your career in five years?

I’m involved with Short North Stage so I would love to see that taking off and I would start costuming large scale productions for them. I did the costumes for Follies, which was so perfect for that building. I got to think about what would be visually striking for that great space. I’d like to travel as well but I don’t dream of making it huge and working on Broadway or anything. I like being the one to actually create everything, not just dream it up and hand it off to someone else for all of the construction. Plus it is so time consuming. I’d hate to be away on work that long.

What do you think separates costume from regular clothing?

Costume tells a full story. Ready-to-wear can be beautiful but it doesn’t tell story. Costuming may not necessarily be beautiful, but it becomes beautiful through the story. It tells about the character: who they are, where they came from, what weather is like, everything. It is like the complete picture and it is specific to one person and their moment in time.

What is the best way for fans of your work to keep tabs on you or make a purchase?

Umm, haha. I will go home and start a facebook fan page right now. I’ve always been kind of a behind-the-scenes type and not self-promoting. That’s why I like costuming. It kind of lets me work in the dark. I really struggled even with bio for Follies.

Sharon’s new facebook page is called The Red Thread and can be found at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/The-Red-Thread/ Come see her and all the rest of the talent we are showcasing at Highball Halloween!

Designer Q&A: Kelli Martin

2011-10-24T11:37:00.000-04:00

We caught up with Designer, HighBall Alumnus, and former Project Runway contestant Kelli Martin to talk about her design aesthetic, and what we can expect from her return to this year's event on the runway. Dish!

Photo: Anti.Label
Photog: James Hayden
Model: Mandalynn Rea

How did you get into the world of fashion?

 It probably started with Cyndi Lauper…from when I was 7-years-old. My grandparents raised me and let me dress how I wanted and paint my nails black and basically let me dress up like a little Cyndi Lauper. That’s really how it all started…My dad would let me put makeup on him and put ponytails in his hair. It was so much fun.  

How would you describe your design aesthetic?  

Pretty ugly..that’s really the best description. I use a lot of contrast. The name of my line, Anti-Label…it is kind of a contradiction in itself. When I started I was 19 and I moved to LA. With my line, I wanted to poke fun at the whole fashion world. Of course it is still couture, its just higher end looking street style…I have feminine silhouettes but with an edge…ruffles with raw edges, silks that are tattered and died. I know that’s kind of the thing now but its what I’ve been doing for 10 years now.  

What are you using as inspiration for the work you’ll be showing at HighBall?

 I guess my inspiration is the transformation of fashion through time. That’s how I interpreted transformation. My HighBall final look will be the blending of all tribes, if you will. Kind of a combination of my three looks of fashion over time combined into this futuristic piece. Its going to be vintage, mixed with couture, mixed with modern, and futuristic if that makes sense. I’m just trying to stick to what I do and stick to the couture Halloween costume.  

What are some of your major design influences?

 Definitely music…That’s definitely one of the things. A lot of musicians from the 50’s through the 80’s, a lot of it is probably from the late 70’s punk scene. London and New York. In the beginning, Vivianne Westwood was my major influence. You know, she started that whole style with the sex shop and everything. I don’t really have a designer that I strive to be like because I’m a little bit A.D.D. and really strive to be different. I guess right now I am on a little Rodarte kick. I like their use of textures. The street is a major influence. People-watching is so fun…you know, I moved to LA and people there are crazy, but lunatics are everywhere here.  

Who are you wearing RIGHT NOW?

 Haha. Some weird designer….lets see, Karen Millan from England. I don’t know what it is I just found it at Plato’s Closet and totally loved it and had to have it, this t-shirt is Old Navy, jeans are from a thrift store, boots might be from Target. I haven’t worn any of my own stuff lately because everything I make I sell…back in the day everything I wore was garter belts and fishnets and piled on and crazy but that was another time and place!   

If you could design an outfit for a celebrity to wear on the red carpet who would you want

to dress and why?

 Ok I have an embarrassing one: Kristen Stewart…I’m a secret Twilight fan. I know she’s still young but she seems like she has a level head. Like, she doesn’t take shit and doesn’t give a shit and that’s a true rebellious attitude and I like that about her. Dream Woman/Wife : Charlize Theron: shes statuesque and beautiful and I would love to design a beautiful garment for her True Ultimate Dream: Cindy Lauper. She is the epitome of fashion to me, way above Madonna. She sold herself with fashion and music and not sex and that’s awesome.  

Where do you see yourself and your career in five years?  

Um really I guess doing what I’m doing now. I’m basically doing what I’ve wanted to do my whole life. I chose to live in Columbus. I enjoy the people, the awesome house with little overhead, its so much more laid back and that’s how I am. LA really is what people think it is if you’re in the fashion industry. I like it here. I really want to be a part of the community because I plan on staying here. Right now I need to regain my online presence because doing the whole stupid reality television thing with Project Runway, I lost my online presence for a few years. I lost a lot of my customers. You know, they grew up, their tastes changed. But this is what I want to do. I can sew in my pajamas and be with my cats all day. I’m busy but I wouldn’t have it any other way…at least its on my terms.  

What do you think separates a costume from regular clothing?

 I feel like there’s definitely a fine line. Couture fashion is different than ready-to-wear. Some ready-to-wear fashion is insane today. The fine line is usually fabrication, and the expensive quality look. You know, it can be gaudy and over-the-top as a ready-to-wear garment if it goes into a theme….if its not a replica of something that is a costume. You could easily have two ideas next to each other:..one costume and one ready-to-wear. For the ready-to-wear, you need to keep it true to itself without watering it down but know what elements to pick and choose while still making it wearable to the usual person.  

What’s the best way for fans of your work to keep tabs on you or even purchase some of

your pieces?

Facebook and my website would probably be the best. I sell on etsy too but I’m trying to rebuild the website and get people going there, not just take the easy route. I also list on ebay random stuff here and there. I’m all over the place. I’m trying to be.

To see Kelli's work at the live runway show, be sure to be at HighBall on Friday the 28th!

Join the Costume Contest and win $1000!

2011-10-23T09:00:00.002-04:00

High Ball is almost here! This year it will take place on Friday, October 28th and be located in the north end of the Short North Arts District, at the corner of Fifth Ave. and N. High St. Street closures on Fifth and N. High will make a dynamic platform for costuming and fun. Happy Hour, sponsored by Columbus Young Professionals and CW Columbus, will be from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, when admittance is free. After 7:00 PM admission is $5.00 at the gate. HighBall will go until 1:00 AM this year for the first time.

Wendy Goldstein, owner of Costume Specialties, is one of the judges this year for the general public costume contest. She is one of the original supporters of High Ball, as a sponsor and judge. She says “High Ball is one of the few events in Columbus that is cross cultural and cross community. It is artistic, theatrical, transformative and has something for children, families, artists of all types, entertainers, drag queens, and anyone with a sense of the dramatic. This is Columbus showing its stuff!”

Asked what the wildest costume Wendy had seen at High Ball, she had no hesitation “The couture stilt walker. She was so striking that she is still used in promotional images. Last year’s winner of the Public Costume Competition also stands out. His devil costume included short stilts that gave him a goat leg appearance and his full body makeup and effective use of latex appliances made for an amazing effect. Lady Gaga in Wonderland was also incredibly creative and fit last year’s theme.”

She continued “As a judge I am looking for concept, construction, quality finishing and how well the costume fits the theme. My tips for participants is let it go - be wild and fearless, and to always do your best.”

Other judges for the Public Costume Contest will be Stephanie Stein of S2/Wilhelmina, Gendala from Phia Salon, Tim Mauer, owner of Mukha Custom Cosmetics, and Angie, the CW Columbus host.

Preregistration for general public contestants is from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the south stage just south of the Garden Theater on N. High St. Get a number and stroll across the stage. Judges will select contestants to move into Phase II for the runway portion of the competition, which will take place at the main stage at Fifth and High. The numbers of finalists will be displayed on the LED screens between 10:15 and 10:30. If your number is displayed - come on down! You MUST be present to win!

Individuals, duos, and groups can enter in any one of the following categories:

Most Radiant - Costumes features LED, laser, UV reactive or other glow accessories

Best Transformation - Costume transforms from one look to another

Most Fabulous - An outrageously amazing costume

Best Extreme Face Painting - Beyond basic clown makeup!

Best B-Movie Ensemble - A group category paying homage to the campiest of the campy

Finalists will get a Short North swag bag. Winners of each of the 5 categories will receive $100.00 and be entered to win Best of Show, with the top prize of $1,000.00, sponsored by Costume Specialties and CW Columbus. One of the final five will also win the alive! People’s Choice Award of an amazing swag bag.

Wendy reminds everyone “You must come to experience it! The mayor loves it and so will you!”.

How HighBall Helps Columbus

2011-10-22T09:00:00.001-04:00

High Ball is a fantastic celebration of creativity, costuming and couture - this year located in the north end of the Short North at the intersection of Fifth Ave. and N. High St. It takes place Friday, October 28th from 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM. Street closures on Fifth and N. High make for a dynamic atmosphere as the street comes alive with color, lights and music.

John Angelo, of the Short North Arts District, puts it best saying that "High Ball is a celebration of Columbus’ creativity, spotlighting the fiber arts with particular emphasis on fashion and costume design. It also emphasizes the closely related arts of hair styling and makeup - both couture and theatrical. Over the years High Ball has grown to be a major platform for visual and performing arts. In the last 4 years High Ball has bestowed over $40,000 in artist stipends and grants, costume competition prizes, and charitable contributions to over 100 individuals, groups and organizations. Through this variety of contributions High Ball has facilitated artists reaching much broader audiences and exposing their talents. Our goal is to support the artist community, and to be a part of their growing success. We feel that Columbus has one of the broadest pools of talent in the country and they are the very fabric of our community. We could not bring the vision of High Ball to life without these many partnerships."

In closing John states "All of that being said, High Ball is also a fundraiser for the Short North Arts District. The proceeds from the event help the business association pursue initiatives that strengthen and promote the Short North and its many constituents. This brings us full circle. We directly support the artists that make the Short North so special, then we support the Arts District which can then further advance the artists. It is a symbiotic relationship."

HighBall, CW Style!

2011-10-21T19:00:00.000-04:00

Check out this great TV Spot courtesy of the CW. Speaking of the CW, did you know that Angie, the CW star will be part of our esteemed panel of judges this year judging YOUR costumes? Stay tuned for more info on judges soon!

Designer Q&A: Crys Lappie

2011-10-21T09:00:00.001-04:00

Check out this Q& A with fabulous designer Crys Lappie, whose work will be among those vying for the top prize at HighBall this year! Her vintage-inspired styles will surely make for some stunning looks on the runway, so be sure to check her out!

How did you get into the world of fashion?

I began by redesigning vintage clothing into modern fashions. Vintage clothing have so many beautiful stories that have been woven into the fibers of the fabric, that I wanted to add a new chapter to the fashion I was creating.

How would you describe your design aesthetic?

Pin up, rockabilly and style that inspirits fashions from the 50's and early 60's.

What are you using as inspiration for the work you’ll be showing at HighBall?

My inspiration is Japanese Fruits, which is a street style inspired by Japanese anime. Female characters of Japanamation look like fragile dolls but are often powerful heroines in the story.

What are some of your major design influences?

Most of my originally designed hand cut stencils are influenced by my observations of the world around me including nature, flowers and people. I'm also heavily influenced by vintage fashion from the late 40's through the early 60's.

Who are you wearing RIGHT NOW?

tee-hee...Right now I am wearing a hand made hat by local artist, Julie Thomas, a vintage Willie Nelson t-shirt and lounge pants.

If you could design an outfit for a celebrity to wear on the red carpet who would you want to dress and why?

Kat Von D because I love her style and would love to design a dress that would celebrate the tattooed art on her body.

Where do you see yourself and your career in five years?

I want to live and work on the west coast redesigning vintage lingerie for burlesque dancers.

What do you think separates a costume from regular clothing?

Regular clothing expresses who we are as a person, whereas costumes allow us to creatively become someone else.

What’s the best way for fans of your work to keep tabs on you or even purchase some of your pieces?

My fans can stalk me on facebook at facebook.com/labelyourself. visit my studio in Gahanna or purchase pieces on my online Etsy boutique at labelyourself.etsy.com
Right now I have been so busy with custom orders that I currently don't have anything on Etsy. New pieces will be added no later than mid November.

To see more from Crys and all of the HighBall designers, be there on October 28th and witness TRANSFORMATIONS - Who will you be??

VOLUNTEER FOR HIGHBALL & GET FREE STUFF!

2011-10-21T07:35:00.000-04:00

Update on Sasha the Spider!

2011-10-20T19:00:00.000-04:00

So you may have met Sasha the giant tarantula a few days ago on this site. It seems as though she has been hard at work on her look for HighBall (you should be too!) and we wanted to update you on her look!

Check out www.columbusairbrush.com to see how her "costume designer" Jonathen Kinney will be using his amazing airbrush technique to turn her into a diva to end all divas!

New Creatures to Haunt HighBall Courtesy of Todd Decker and Alex Bandar

2011-10-20T09:00:00.040-04:00

Designers Todd Decker and Alex Bandar have been working on some spooky, fantastic fun for this year’s HighBall Halloween celebration. Inspired by the work of designers before them, they have created “puppets” that will mingle among the masses at the event.

The 12-feet-tall wearable puppets are new to this year’s event. The idea is the brainchild of HighBall Halloween event coordinator John Angelo, hoping to add an element of the unexpected to the HighBall experience. Angelo, inspired by 12-feet-tall wearable puppets he had seen in a parade at Disney World, wanted to bring some of this whimsical, fantastic charm to Columbus’ biggest Halloween party.

“He (Angelo) approached me a while back with a design that he assimilated from concepts created at similar events - for example, (Brazilian) Carnival, Bread and Puppet Theater and The Lion King,” said Bandar, founder of the Columbus Idea Foundry, a community space devoted to teaching introductory, hands-on art classes.

The puppets will surely be a sight to behold, as they stray away from the traditional puppet concept.

“The puppets are made from styrofoam, wood, fiberglass, fabric and hardware, all wrapped in fabric,” said Decker, also of Olympic Theatre Productions

Bandar explained the complex way the figures move.

“The whole assembly is affixed to a military-style backpack harness worn by the performer. The ‘hands’ of the puppets have bamboo rods that the dancer/ puppeteers hold, so that as they raise their own hands, the puppets arms rise up as well. The puppets "feet" are attached to the puppeteer/dancer's feet with PVC fixtures, so that as they walk and dance, the legs of the puppets also rise, step, walk, and dance,” he said. Take a look at this sneak peek of BOBO while he's still being developed:

The two men are looking forward to bringing their unique vision to a brand new audience, one that may not normally be exposed to their creations.

“My favorite things about Columbus are the sense of independent spirit; the combination of small-town goodwill, and yet, big-city technological and cultural actors and organizations; and the fact that there is a very supportive and enthusiastic community of people who are willing to jump on board with an idea, no matter how practical, impractical, mischievous or crazy,” said Bandar.

This description also seems to fit the spirit of Highball Halloween, Oct 28, 5 p.m.- 1 a.m.

Who is Sasha Fierce?

2011-10-19T09:00:00.007-04:00

THIS is Sasha!

Bo Bruns of Unit 70 Studios has created this gigantic tarantula to help welcome guests to this year's HighBall. You just better hope she likes your costume....

Don't worry - her outfit isn't done yet. Be at HighBall to see the finished product!
(photo by Brittany Jensen)

Highball + Fashion Week = 2012

2011-10-18T09:00:00.007-04:00

WOOT!

HighBall has just formed an exciting new partnership that will bring together the creative minds of Columbus Fashion Week with those of us at HighBall for a spectacular 2012 event! This is exciting news that solidifies our belief that Columbus is the Fashion Capital of the Midwest!

Gabby Bullock wearing a Kevin Kerr original, FWC and HighBall designer - Miki Gotoh, FWC founding partner & chairman - Dont’e J. Rodriguez-Young, HighBall producer - John Angelo, FWC founding partner & president - Thomas McClure, Margeaux Thomas wearing a Miki Gotoh original, Kristin Radu wearing a Jennifer Carlson original, and Maika Karnes (kneeling) wearing a Tina Matthews original.

(photo courtesy of Frank Neumann)

QUALITY spins to make you dance at this year's HighBall

2011-10-17T09:36:00.001-04:00

DJ Pons (Jeff Pons) and Jason Lyman specialize in providing the perfect soundtrack for all your phattest occasions. HighBall happens to be one of those occasions, and we caught up with the duo, collectively known as QUALITY, to get a sneak peek at how they'll accessorize this year's HighBall with their spinning.

Chillin... Chillin... Mindin' our bidness....

So, Jeff, how did you and Jason get started spinning?

We both got started in the mid-90s with beginnings in the underground raves and lost parties.

What is the best part about your job?

Definitely entertaining the people and being in front of a big crowd.

What is your favorite style of music to listen to?

Deep house. It’s a blend of old disco and new dance. It’s still kind of underground, but made specifically for the dance floor. That’s also what we like to play. If you had to pin us down, I’d do my best to muddy the waters by describing our musical style as everything from Sleazy Disco to Hazy House Music to Late-Night Techno. We hate to pigeonhole a musical style as we like to cross-genres as often as possible while we’re playing. You’ll hear us tease the crowd with sounds and songs your ears might be familiar with because we’re always working to entice people to the dance-floor when they least expect it. Our motto: “Quality – We Love To Make People Dance,” is the honest truth. We love this gig.

Do you have any “guilty pleasure” music that you listen to?

Haha. Mid 90s R&B and funk.

Ooh. Color You Badd! Who was your first concert?

The Bee Gees. I’m embarrassed to say what year though!

That’s okay, it could have been a reunion tour. If you could collaborate with any artist, who would you want to work with?

Musically we would love to collaborate with a slew of DJ’s and producers from all over the world. In the U.S. we have a stronghold for underground dance music in Detroit, New York, and Miami. Overseas there’s a stronghold of artists in Berlin and London that we’d jump at the chance to work with. In this case we’re excited to again collaborate with the wealth of local artists in the Short North and Columbus.

Between the stage performances and the fashion component, there is plenty of inspiration to go around at Highball alone. Musically, Columbus has tons of great talent. We have a bunch of young local DJ’s and producers working their way up as well as veteran DJ’s and producers continuing to work on projects local, international and everything in between

How would you describe your set for this year’s Highball?

We played last year and had a good reception. The format last year was more free form. This year we really want to work with John Angelo to transition from an early night street festival with music that progresses with each act or stage show. So, the DJ’s music becomes increasingly more energetic and tied in from stage act to stage act. We are there to knit the whole event together from fashion show to drag show to whatever is going on.

Do you think music influences fashion and vice versa?

I think it does. Everyone takes their own influences from different places. Fashion you can see often takes from punk rock or new wave and you also see a lot of music take form from things coming back. There is resurgence. For example, there is a trend called nu-disco, where you put this new, modern spin on disco. So, the answer is yes. We like to dabble in all of that.

What are you most excited to see at Highball?

Nina West did Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” last year and it was just fantastic so we are really excited to see what she does this year.

To hear more from QUALITY, be at HighBall on October 28th. Follow us on twitter at @highballcbus and don't forget to stalk us on Facebook and invite your friends to the event. You're either in, or you're out!

Short North Fashion Find: ROWE Boutique

2011-10-15T16:00:00.006-04:00

HighBall finds inspiration in fashion from all over, but we're particularly excited to have some exciting, fashion-forward boutiques right here in our 'hood. Take a look at this chat we had with Maren Roth, proprietor of ROWE, who gives us a taste of what we can expect from her looks on the runway at this year's HighBall.

What made you want to get involved in HighBall?

This is actually my first experience participating in Highball, but from what I know it is a really exciting way to get the community inspired and involved on a large scale. It creates a larger than life celebratory feel that naturally lends itself to gathering a large excited group! In turn, it gives people a reason to come to the Short North, experience the bars, restaurants and become more aware of the types of businesses that exist here, like Rowe. Even though we are closed during Highball, the window shopping is a great calling card to peak a potential shoppers interest and inspire them to come back and visit us during business hours!

Why do you think so many fashion artists call Columbus home?

We have a wonderful arts community, one that not only brings in great artists, but breeds and fosters them. Not only do we have wonderful schools like CCAD, we have fantastic galleries, high end art collectors, the Wexner Center and the Columbus Museum of Art, both incredible institutions that keep artists interested in making Columbus their home. It's often the people that make the place and not the place that makes the people, but in our case we are lucky that it's both!

How would you describe the design aesthetic of the looks you’ll be sending down the

runway?

Wearable Glamour!

Who is your favorite designer?

In general YSL, at the moment I am loving Alexander Wang, Tom Ford and Burberry Prorsum.

HighBall goes hand in hand with Halloween this year, so I gotta ask. What is your favorite Halloween candy, and why?

My favorite candy ever is DOTS, I prefer gummy candy over chocolate any day and Dots are the perfect mix of not too sweet gummy candy. I can eat boxes of them in one sitting!

What kinds of items can people find at your shop that they might not get to see on the

runway?

Rowe is a mix of sophisticated styles with a bohemian twist, not unlike my personal style. We have 2 types of shoppers, the chic professional gals that like to pick things up to wear to an event or out on a date or girls night and serious fashion girls that don't follow trends and beat to their own fashion drummer, so they will pick up great layering pieces, a really amazing jacket or one of a kind necklace or scarf that they know they can't find anywhere else. Although we can't be everything to everyone, we have a fantastic mix of dresses, skirts, sweaters, coats, bags, shoes and jewelry. We have great gift selections as well and we truly do have both affordable priced items such as $60 tops and $30 earrings as well as aspirational items to keep our fashionistas appetites satiated, excited and inspired!

Along with having great things, we have amazing sales gals/stylists in the store that can help some of the more fashion challenged customers put amazing looks together. We want our customers to know that fashion is our art and we are here to help them, we want them to utilize our knowledge and innate fashion sense to put together amazing looks for them!

How would you describe Columbus style?

Columbus style spans the fashion spectrum and I am constantly inspired by the people I see on the streets of Columbus, OH.

To see more of Maren's ROWE styles, be at HighBall on October 28th. Be sure to follow us on twitter @highballcbus for the latest updates, and invites your friends to join you at HighBall on Facebook! Ciao!

Designer Q&A: Lindsay Hearts

2011-10-14T09:00:00.002-04:00

The runway competition at this year's HighBall is going to be FIERCE, in large part because of the talented cadre of designers who will be competing for this year's top prize. Here's a look inside the mind of one of the competitors, Lindsay Hearts... but be warned, she is packing heat!

Lindsay Hearts rocks her signature necklace. Don't worry, it's not loaded.
(photo by Lindsay Hearts)

How did you get into fashion?

I’ve been sewing since age 6, granted not very well then, but I always had desire to make things with my hands. Maybe that is even why I got into body piercings. I just wanted to create. I hate, hate, hate the norm. I think every day should be dress up. Fashion should really make you feel or what is the point? I just really pride myself on being an artist.

How would you describe your design aesthetic?

It’s definitely very rock-n-roll. I do a lot of outerwear, bold pants, and I like everything studded, destroyed, distressed, things like that.
What is your inspiration for your designs that are being shown at Highball?

I made all of my outfits made specifically for Highball. I wanted to show all new things. It’s about extravagant, rock-n-roll, fearless, theater, and sex. I made lots of trips to New York to intern and see shows. I got all my fabric for these outfits from Mood. I interned with artists for inspiration and to see how NY influences them. It was just really great. I am so grateful for any space where I can work. I ripped apart the living room in my apartment and made into studio to immerse myself in my work.

What are your major design influences?

My girlfriend is major influence which I know people say that and it sounds all cliché, but she is so young and fun. She has this really raw, punk energy but she is still so calm and sweet. Other than her, I really like this band called Hardcore Superstars.

Who are you wearing right now?

Right now I am working as usual so it isn’t so great but I will have to look at my closet. Oh! I love this new line from Blood is the new Black. It’s this really cool place that puts people’s artwork on t-shirts and commission goes to artist. That way they aren’t forced to sell their art and the company can do whatever with it, so it is really cool and good for artists. It is based in California but I found it when I was in New York. There is a girl, Annessa, who runs Bustown Modern who styles vintage items so buy tons of her stuff. It’s like refurbished vintage, it’s great.

I have to have Jeffrey Campbell shoes for the biggest, highest platforms possible.

I also saw this Nicola Formichetti pop-up store during fashion week when I was in New York. He does a lot of stuff for Lady Gaga and they had clothes, shoes, and accessories from all kinds of people. I got this necklace that is a huge black gun covered in rhinestones and I wear it every day now. She did all the jewelry in the “Judas” video and it’s by Marianna, who makes designer jewelry in Los Angeles.

It sounds like you really know your fashion! So, if you could design an outfit to be worn on the red carpet by any celebrity, who would you want to design for and why?

That’s a tough one. Nikki Sixx because he still looks awesome no matter what. He really can’t look bad.

Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years?

I don’t want to move to move to New York and make it huge. That isn’t really the point. I want to keep creating and make great pieces. Even if it is just my friends that want to wear it. I don’t care who it is on, I just want people to really like it.

What do you think distinguishes costume from other clothing?

Costume is a one time sha-bang where clothing is like a staple to who you are and you don’t mind it for every day. I mean some people think I am in costume when I wear what I like but you should just be who you are, no matter what. So, I would say costumes are generally only worn once for special occasion.

What is the best way for fans of your work to keep tabs on you or make a purchase?

You can check my website, www.lindsayhearts.com and there is a link there to purchase from my etsy page. I often work on things in Evolved so I might be there studding jackets or something. Sometimes I also sell things in What the Rock! but I don’t have anything in there right now.
Nice! We can't wait to see your designs on the runway. Thanks for taking the time to talk to us. Now get back to your sewing!

I am so, so excited that Highball gave me the opportunity to do this. It is quite the milestone. I never thought would be able to design for Highball because it is such a huge production and I am extremely grateful to have gotten there.

To see what Lindsay's looks on the runway along with all our other designers, be at HighBall on October 28th, and be sure to invite all your friends to check out our event page on Facebook and invite their peeps. It's gonna be a rocking time!

Photo of the Day: Let the collaboration begin!

2011-10-13T16:26:00.000-04:00

Designers, models, and stylists converge to
discuss looks for the Costume Couture Fashion Showdown
of this year's HighBall Halloween: Masquerade On High

Facing camera from left to right:
Lindsay Hearts (HighBall 2011 couture designer),
Sunshine (stylist from Phia Salon),
Tim Mauer (owner of Mukha Custom Cosmetics),
Sanito Mendoza (Mukha Custom Cosmetics)

Local Artist Coreroc will help TRANSFORM the Short North at this year's HIGHBALL

2011-10-13T09:00:00.002-04:00

Hey Cbus! HighBall wanted to know how renowned graffiti artist Coreroc was going to make it work this year with his live creation of a glowing mural on High Street, so we sat down with him to find out. Here's what we learned....

Coreroc works on a mural at this year's URBAN SCRAWL event.

Local artist, Ashley Voss (Coreroc), will paint literally anything that proves to have an impacting surface. Voss has been a graffiti artist for 20 years, and in the past six years, his love of graffiti art has transformed his work into a style that is all his own. He now works with blending graphic design, photography, couture, sculpture and more into one cohesive finished product. He currently has an exhibit for the month of October at Image Optical, 846 N. High Street.

The piece Coreroc is creating for Highball Halloween this year will embrace the themes of transformation and radiance. He is transforming the profile of local artist and lead singer of the Phantods, Gretchen King, on an 8x28 ft mural throughout the night. This piece, estimated to take 3 to 5 hours, will be done using glow materials. It will be the centerpiece of a new theme to be reprised annually at HighBall, the use of UV reactive materials to create a GLOW.

Coreroc will develop fluid lines utilizing various UV reactive and traditional artist blend acrylic aerosol paints. ClearNeon aerosol paints will add a transparent glow visible only in the black light, and materials from the electronics industry will work as indiglo in a blue-green hue. In addition to these materials, there may even be an incorporation of electrical lighting. Coreroc will complete the piece by carving out the profile of King’s face, transforming the fluid glow shapes into the musician’s hair toward the end of the night.

“As an artist my goal is to speak to the aesthetic value of graffiti while seeking to shed the preconceived notion that graffiti is merely a form of destruction and or vandalism. Through facts, pictures, and open discussions I hope to prove that graffiti is a worthy, value added addition to any public space as well as the private sector and galleries alike.”

For more information on Coreroc and his work, visit www.coreroc.com, and be sure to check him out at HighBall on October 28th!

What's New at HighBall in 2011

2011-10-11T17:37:00.000-04:00

Greetings Fashionistas of Columbus!

It’s time to step into high gear and high fashion for this year’s HighBall Halloween: Masquerade on High. Hundreds of people - from community groups to organizers and artists - have been working diligently for months on lots of fabulous new parts of the event that will make 2011 the best HighBall yet.

So what all can we expect from this year’s HighBall? We’re glad you asked!

We tracked down John Angelo, the man at the HighBall helm, to give us a sneak peek of what’s coming on October 28th…

Hey John. Nice Hair.
We all get that HighBall is this great party in the Short North, but what is the goal of HighBall?

HighBall was originally created to provide a platform to showcase the brilliant artists working in fashion and fashion related fields in and around Columbus. Halloween seemed to be a natural fit with our event, as its the time of year when outrageous and fabulous outfits are part of the norm, and the artists who create those looks deserve our community's support. This is an event that empowers and financially supports artists whose work can't hang in a gallery to be seen and appreciated. HighBall is here to help artists, and it just so happens that the party is a great time too, so everyone wins.

The theme of this year’s HighBall is TRANSFORMATIONS. Why did you choose this theme?

The idea of transformation is a key ingredient of the Masquerade – the art that HighBall celebrates. We’ve been so excited about the transformation that’s happening at the northern part of the Short North Arts District – that we thought it was a fitting celebration that tied in with both the community and the essence of fashion and costume.

Ah, so there are multiple transformations that played into your thinking. Tell us what is transformed for this year’s HighBall.

Well, a LOT! This year’s event is on Friday, October 28^th, a shift from our traditional Saturday, and we’ll make our hub at the corner of Fifth and High, which is the farthest north we’ve ever been.

But that’s just the beginning. At every turn with this years HighBall, we’ve tried to push for more. You can expect more entertainment, more programming, and more opportunities to be involved in crazy transformations all along High Street.

Our production partners at Pagetech Limited have outdone themselves with this year’s stage – they’ll turn a vacant lot into the epicenter of couture with amazing lights, huge LED screens sponsored by our new neighbors at Kroger, and a 76 foot catwalk.

Wow. That’s a long way to have to stomp in stilettos!

It sure is. But we also wanted to make it possible for more than just our professional models to work the crowd, so there will also be a second stage where everyone participating in our Costume Contest can have their moment in the spotlight. Everyone can compete in lots of new categories, including Most Radiant, Best Transformation, Best Extreme Face Painting, Most Fabulous, and Best B-Movie Ensemble (Group). Best of all, our LED screens will make it so you can see the show from anywhere.

We’ve got a hunch that Most Fabulous will be a hotly contested category around here…

We think so too – especially given the breadth and talent of the artists and designers who call Columbus home. Speaking of talented designers, we’ve also got 6 amazing designers competing in our big runway event with both everyday looks and Costume Couture, and a very special costume performance piece from Sharon Stewart that promises a transformation you won’t want to miss.

Ooh, we love a bit of mystery! For those of us who won’t be on the stage, what kind of fun will we find at HighBall?

A ton. We’ve adopted a new tradition this year at HighBall which will become a signature of our event, something that we call GLOW. We’re working to create an even more stunning visual of our event by encouraging the use of LED, Laser, and UV reactive materials in costumes and in a giant mural being creating by Coreroc in real time at the event.

And speaking of giant, we’ve also got giant puppets being created just for this event and a cast of 10 costumed stilt-walkers called “Amazing Giants”. Finally, Bo Brunz from Unit 70 Studios is bringing in a friend of his – a giant tarantula with an eight-foot diameter – to help welcome everyone to HighBall.

Ew. There better be plenty of booze for those of us who are arachnophobes to walk past that spider.

Oh, don’t worry about that. In fact, the Columbus Young Professionals and CD101 are sponsoring a happy hour from 5-7pm, allowing free admission to check out all the cool stuff that’s happening. We’ll also be featuring our signature cocktail – the Ketel One HighBall, to help everyone get in the spirit, so to speak.

Mmmm.. vodka.

Are there other community organizations who are taking part?

Absolutely. On the main stage, Nina West will emcee performances from CATCO, Imagine Productions, Short North Stage, and Olympic Theatre.

Ballet Met is also working with us on collaboration with cinematic make-up artist Tommy Pietch to transform 3 dancers into classic movie monsters in a studio we’re setting up in the middle of High Street for all to see.

Ooh, it’ll be just like an episode of ANTM right in the middle of the street!

Funny you should say that. America’s Next Top Model Cycle 10 alum and Cycle 17 contestant Dominique Reighard, our hometown supermodel, will be a guest judge at our costume contest where 6 designers will compete for a $1,000 first prize. These competitive designs will share the stage with local fashions from Rowe, Brigade, Ladybird, {milk bar}, with help from S2/Wilhemina models, Phia Salon and Mukha Custom Cosmetics.

What else should we know about this year’s HighBall?

You mean that’s not enough? Well, of course we’ll continue in the Dogtober Howl-o-ween pet contest, and the CW and Costume Specialties have returned this year as great partners in the human costume contest, and the People’s Choice award will also be given out this year thanks to the folks at alive!.

We also expect lots of fun stuff with local businesses like Surly Girl, Skully’s, The Garden, a fantastic food court, and awesome beats from DJ Pons… all under the iconic arches of the Short North. It should be a great night.

Word.

Thanks for your time John. One last question – Who will you be?

Well, I’ve got to keep some secrets to myself….

Stay tuned to this site for more on all of the things John mentioned above, including profiles on our couture designers Tina Matthews, Kelli Martin, Jennifer Carlson, Crys Lappie, Lindsay Hearts, and Aaron James. Also be sure to follow us on twitter at @highballcbus, and head over to the Short North Arts District on Facebook and click under events, where you can tell us your coming and invite all your friends. Hell, you can even sign-up to volunteer by visiting HighBallHalloween.com/volunteer.