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Holocene Not Too Cool For You by Courtney Mumma Portland is creatively diverse and brimming with interesting, talented people. This magazine depends on that. But these same Portlanders are sometimes threatened by the unfamiliar. We often find comfort in dark bars where we have complete anonymity. Holocene is no dark bar. Holocene creates an atmosphere in which it is virtually impossible to be inconspicuous. Sure, you could creep behind the meat curtain and hide out in the smoking room to admire the art installation, which is currently Esther Ahn's best interpretation of a rotting lung in cheesecloth covering the ceiling. Or you could take a small group of refugees and hunker down behind the tall silk curtain (designed by Seaplane's Holly Stalder and Kathryn Towers). But then, you might be missing the point. One of the particularly unique aspects of Portland is its DIY, collaborative nature. Holocene's owners, Charlie, Jarkko, and Scott, At Sunday brunch last weekend, while being entertained by local DJs Hermano and Safi, and drinking a marvelous bloody mary, I met with two of the owners, Jarkko and Scott. According to Jarkko, "the fantasy of this place, what this place would really like to be, is a meeting place for people who are really productive creatively". Everyone working at Holocene is doing something creative. Both Scott and Jarkko told me that they want Holocene to be as diverse as possible, not stratified or mainstream like some other places (I'm not naming names, but they're mostly on the west side). And then, for those of you who are not that creative or just not that productive, be a voyeur. Holocene is stunning, Holocene may seem foreign to Portlanders. It looks like New York City or San Francisco. But its collaborative beginnings and its enthusiastic intentions to become a fresh outlet for innovative energy is characteristic of this town. Holocene isn't trying to divide us, it's here to please, inspire, and delight. Jarkko said, "When people come and bring out their journal or sketchbook, it makes me so happy." So, come on people, make him happy already. For menu, calendar, and links, visit www.holocene.org |
are three friends who brought together local designers to create an extraordinary venue, and they're proud of it. So proud, in fact, that Jarkko effortlessly provided a list of credits including, but not limited to, shouts out to their brilliant woodworkers Devan Anthony, Andrew Bowers, and Jason Eksuzian, and thanks to their friends at Seaplane for making the throw pillows, aprons, and tall silk curtain.
and it's inevitable that you will be impressed by the modern, light, open design. There is always something interesting going on at Holocene. Indulge yourself with reasonably priced, unique food that is as often as possible local and organic. Check out the slide or video presentation on the colossal white wall in the expansive dining room/bar. Enjoy a fashion show featuring local designers. Or, if you're eager to boogie, get your dance on in the space across from the smoking alcove.