Beacon Quarterly Throws an Eclectic, Art-Filled Summer Barbecue

The cover photo of Beacon Quarterly's ninth issue, Tan Lines
Image: Courtesy Beacon Quarterly
True: Portland might not be known for its tan citizens or cloudless days. But that’s not stopping Beacon Quarterly from having some fun in the sun. The hyper-visual, Portland-based magazine—which focuses on artistic spaces and draws contributors from around the world—is releasing its ninth issue in style.
“It's bringing the magazine to life and creating this experiential event for guests,” says Beacon editor in chief and creative director Chacha Sands. “At any given moment in every different area of the venue, something will be happening.”
She means it. Over the 13-hour event (yup), held at Southeast Portland's Century Bar, there will be an onslaught of music: 25 performers curated by Beacon, two hip-hop collectives, and a record label covering everything from classic beats to conceptual indie rock. The afternoon brings a music industry panel called Trust the Process, hosted by Eight Flat Frequencies.
Expect on-site screen-printing (bring your own pieces or pick up something at the event) as well as a concept shop, curated by Dumpster Dogs, House of Onyx, and Sets by Phe, featuring fashion item and wearables in an all-inclusive range of nude skin tones.
And if that’s not enough, you can even take a turn as a cover model. Beacon has turned its Tan Lines Cover—a photo of a nude, sun-roasted blonde carrying a bag of charcoal briquettes—into a themed installation with interactive photo booth and barbecue lounge space, complete with AstroTurf and a life-size cutout.
Tan Lines Release Party
Noon–1:30 a.m. Sun, July 28, Century Bar, $5–25