Cracker jack of all trades

It's hard to believe that Beatnik Studios hasn't been around forever. Even though it's only existed for six years, its impact on the local arts scene has been significant.

The space launched in 2008 as a photography cooperative, and over the years, it has evolved and expanded into something of an artistic catchall, taking on seemingly everything—and killing it, be it live-music shows, art exhibitions, dance parties or as a wedding venue.

Now, even though it's hardly middle-aged, the venue, which closed briefly, has just received a bit of a facelift. Well, it's more of a complete overhaul, actually, with a move to a new location.

Previously located on 17th Street off Broadway, the new Beatnik Studios is housed downtown at 723 S Street and will celebrate its latest incarnation with a party on Saturday, August 2. There will be food plus drinks from Two Rivers Cider Company, Rubicon Brewing Company and New Helvetia Brewing Company.

There will also be a performance by Aerial Evolution and live music by Proxy Moon, Güero (whose singer Ricky Krull is pictured above), Jazz Gitan and the Foxtails.

The party is free—which means you've got no excuse not to pony up for an anniversary present. Tradition dictates that a sixth anniversary should be celebrated with candy. A box of Cracker Jack, maybe? 6 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, at Beatnik Studios, 723 S Street; (916) 400-4281; www.beatnik-studios.com.