events

Tech Company Features Jessica Legako in Art Exhibition Oklahoma City-based tech company amshot spends most days focusing on IT services and software development, but once per quarter, local arts and charity take center stage at its downtown office. exhibITion: Far Away Lands, a collection of contemporary works by Oklahoma artist Jessica Legako, will be showcased on July 25 from 4:30 to 8 p.m. at the art show, sale, and reception. Her works will remain in amshot’s office throughout the summer. Benefiting Oklahoma Women in Tech (OKWIT), the event is co-sponsored by COOP Ale Works. It will take place at 428 Dean A McGee Avenue. It might seem unusual for an IT company to be promoting local art and culture, but Michael C. Thomas, CEO of amshot says, “our organization is committed to combining art, fun and community service as a core part of our business.” The proceeds of each exhibITion art show benefit a local charity, giving art-lovers more reason to attend. Each show has attracted upward of 150 persons — some are there for the artist, some are there for the art, some for the community, “and some for the beer,” jokes Thomas, as a local brewery provides beer to attendees 21+ for a $5 donation to the selected charity. “I’ve been a longtime fan of Jessica’s work, and I’ve commissioned pieces from her over the years,” said Rick Alliss, COO of amshot. “I’m really excited to feature one of my favorite local artists right in our office.” Legako’s works portray texture, movement, distance, and depth, primarily using intricately layered oil paint on wood or canvas surfaces. She draws inspiration from her childhood, dreams, aspirations, and nostalgic memories, playing off the relationship between the image she creates and the wood grain it is created on. In addition to selling the art on display at the July 25th event, Legako will also be debuting a collaborative line of canvas bags, pouches, and totes with local upholstery studio Thready or Knot. “exhibITion is amshot’s way of providing another outlet for promoting local artists in downtown Oklahoma City,” said Thomas. “It’s all about combining art, fun, and community service.”