For as long as I can remember, Chuck E. Cheese's tagline has been “Where a Kid Can Be a Kid”. The concept in itself is pretty simple, but has anybody ever asked if there is a place “Where an Adult Can Be a Kid”? Maybe the only person to ask AND answer that question is Ben ‘Opt Won’ Chavez, the man behind Chubby Robot and the 8 Bit Art Show which is showcasing its second installment this Saturday night at Family Affair’s Downtown Denver location (2049 Larimer St.). Self-described as a “super 80’s kid”, Chavez has turned his love for nostalgic music, toys, films, and video games into the one of a kind 8 Bit show featuring custom Nintendo systems and canvas pieces by an assortment of Denver's elite artists. On the surface the show could be seen as any other random collection of art but in conversing with Opt Won, the theme and inspiration go much deeper than meets the eye.
(Ben ‘Opt Won’ Chavez sporting his Nintendo Power Glove at last year's 8 Bit Art Show)
“Most anybody has memories playing Nintendo and the nostalgia that comes with it” said Chavez on his inspiration in developing the 8 Bit series. “It reminds me of a time in my life that I hold close to my heart, being a kid” added Chavez, seemingly revealing his intentions of having attendants return to their glory child days. “I would say they (music, toys, films, and video games) are the staple of memories, at least for me. When I listen to an old song, play a video game or see a piece of art it reminds me of the first time I experienced it.” The show is more than a trip down memory lane for retired gamers, featuring legitimate artist from the Denver area including Xencs L. Wing, Pisto Rish, Gabe Filthe, and countless others. “I selected artists who are unique and all around bad asses in what they do, each I believe has their own niche. I added more artists and different styles of art” said Chavez regarding this year’s collection of 8 Bit artists.
In addition to the art show, DJ Tense & DJ Es Nine of the Crunk Brothers crew will be spinning live sets complete with 8 bit beats made special for the event and 8 bit video sets. Upping the ante is DJ Discord, who will be making beats on his Game Boy. Toy Magnus, co-host for the weekly web show Young Collectors, will have a display of video game history (which will all be for sale) and what kid party would be complete without cupcakes, which The Shoppe will be providing all night. The night ends at The 1up video arcade bar (1925 Blake St. / over 40+ vintage arcade games, 15 pinball machines) in celebration of the show. “I want my shows to spark human emotion and bring happiness, even it is for just an evening. I want people to have a good time with friends and family. I love hearing people say ‘I remember this!’ I want people thinking they have never heard or seen what just happened. I want them to leave in anticipation of our next Chubby Robot event” finished Chavez in eagerness of Saturday. If the event turns out only half as good as it sounds, no doubt the anticipation will be there for the third installment next year and we will finally have the answer to “Where an Adult Can Be a Kid”.
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Chubby Robot Presents 8 Bit II Art Show
Saturday, October 13th, 2012 Family Affair - (2049 Larimer St.) 6pm-12am - All Ages - FREE
The 1UP - (1925 Blake St.) 12-2am - 21+
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