How now, town cow?

Though still commonly referred to as a “cow town” by residents and outsiders alike, Sacramento is surprisingly full of talented artists (and surprisingly lacking in cows). Though the trend is for people of vision to immigrate to San Francisco or L.A. as soon as they’re able, a growing number of Sacramentans are seizing the unique creative opportunities offered in their hometown. Visit any one of Sacramento’s overcrowded open mic nights, poetry readings, live music shows or a screening by a local filmmaker to find evidence that art is alive and pulsing in this city. Celebrate a small sampling of the ever-expanding palette of local art at Saturday’s benefit for Access Sacramento (provider of fine community radio, TV and the Sacramento Festival of Cinema)—Cinemagic. Experience the alternative photography of MatrixArts’ Reality Snap show, a selection of the most compelling films from last year’s Festival of Cinema, an exhibit from Arts Furniture Salon and the alterna-audio of The Voice, Sacramento’s Internet radio station. All this while nibbling on Café Milazzo-made treats and sipping on wine! Sorry, Bessie. Sacramento’s moooving on. The art starts at 7 p.m. and tickets are $10-$12. MatrixArts, 1518 Del Paso Blvd. Call 456-8600 x 176 for more information.