Atlanta Contractors and Designers Prepare for The Next Cool Event

by Kass Wilson, faux finish and decorative artist, Wallstreat Studio

For exhibitors at The Next Cool Event, Feb. 17-18, 2012, the excitement is just beginning. Teams of Georgia’s most creative talent are already meeting in restaurants and coffee shops working on imaginative ways to build sets inspired by iconic films and TV shows. Armed with drawing tablets, fabric samples, color charts, glowing laptops and iPads, you can just feel the energy as ideas flow freely around the table.

So what’s bringing Atlanta contractors and designers and other professionals together for the task? The Next Cool Event, a collaborative production targeting the growing Georgia film industry by showcasing people, places and things that are cutting edge in Atlanta. Imagine a building the size of three football fields filled with exotic sets and exhibits inspired by movie themes. Combine this with live performances from Georgia recording artists and cuisine from the best caterers in the city. The result is a feast for all of the senses.Last year I was involved with three of the exhibits . . . Avatar (above), Dr. Who and Bottleshock. Most of the time, my work is about creating special effects in homes and offices. But for this event, my talents are challenged far beyond the ordinary requests I get from my clients. I was part of multiple creative teams, making giant 6-foot leaves glisten like silk and more.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ob1ggBt1QxY&feature=g-upl&context=G2468078AUAAAAAAACAA

For the set of Dr. Who, I made a window appear as if there was an explosive fire inside. I also created a life-size tree branch so dimensional that it had to be touched to see if it was real. These are the kinds of requests that I love to encounter. I love a challenge that exceeds traditional expectations of faux artistry.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWl7Jp5iu6E&feature=g-upl&context=G259da2bAUAAAAAAABAA

This year I am again involved with many of the design teams exhibiting at the event. I was recruited by corporate sponsor Sherwin-Williams to collaborate on their set, which will be inspired by their clever commercials and leadership in presenting current color trends. Without giving away the surprise, here is a hint… Think King Kong!

Last year, The Next Cool Event quickly became the premier event for the interior design, film, special events and entertainment industries by showcasing the most innovative talent that is right here in Georgia. The plans for 2012 have already given us every indication that this year it will be even bigger and better. If you are a part of Georgia’s creative talent or just enjoy experiencing exciting and imaginative ideas, The Next Cool Event will be held Feb. 17-18, 2012, at the Atlanta Exposition Center where Scott Antique Market is held every month. Tickets are on sale now through Ticket Alternative.

Check out more scenes from last year’s Next Cool Event:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekffd1W6pJA&feature=g-upl&context=G2afb884AUAAAAAAAHAA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcy_8N47Bjg&feature=g-upl&context=G2e20da0AUAAAAAAADAA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHqi9OEAfXo&feature=g-upl&context=G2745e4fAUAAAAAAAEAA