Hello Art-Monkeys,

We hope you’ve enjoyed the holidays so far. The new year is upon us and with that comes some changes. We have some news for you and while we know that it may come as a shock to some, we hope you will understand.

Our branch of Dr. Sketchy’s began in October of 2007. Nicola Black of Nicola Black Design, L.L.C. and Beth Smith of The Midwives Collective joined forces and brought Dr. Sketchy’s to Philadelphia — working together for one year. In October 2008, Dr. Sketchy’s Philly continued through December 2009 run by director, Nicola Black.

For various reasons, this month (December 2009) brings the end of Dr. Sketchy’s Philly as currently brought to you by Nicola Black Design, L.L.C. Here is Nicola’s letter to all of you who’ve had a part in Dr. Sketchy’s Philly:

I’ve been involved in Dr. Sketchy’s Philly for the past 2 years and 2 months and it’s been nothing but fun. I have met so many wonderful people and have learned so much from them. What other job would allow me to interact with so many beautiful and talented people? I have met burlesque stars, other fabulous Dr. Sketchy’s directors from around the world, artists that kick some serious ass, Dr. Sketchy’s enthusiasts that donate their time or sponsor the event with prizes… it’s been a wonderful run. The community surrounding Dr. Sketchy’s is what’s impressed me the most. Without all of you, our branch wouldn’t have become one of the most successful in the world. I consider each and every one of you a friend.

Thank you to all of you who have had a hand in Dr. Sketchy’s Philly. James Mundie, your support was always incredible – thank you! The Midwives Collective, thank you for your drink mixing skills and help with the event! Cocktail Onion, thank you for your scantily clad bar tending — so many people got a kick out of your crazy antics! Mew Gallery, Fleisher Art Memorial and The M-Room, thank you for housing us. DJ Todd Crazy-Face, thank you for the kick ass tunes that always matched the theme — I know that was a lot of work! To Dr. Sketchy’s South Jersey (Tracy of Madcow Designs and Brian) thank you for all of your incredible help with each session. Working the door, bringing extra props and words of encouragement. You both rock! To all of the models we worked with – WOW! You all did such an amazing job. Talk about creativity… you ladies and gents blew my mind. Scott Johnston and Joey Martini – you two are just incredible. Thank you for all of your support and jokes. You both always make me giggle. Molly Crabapple – thank you for being so completely amazing and sharing your idea with the world. Dames, Drinking and Drawing… one of the best ideas ever! To our sponsors, thank you! Your support and donations helped keep us afloat. Big thanks to The Philly Roller Girls – you supported us consistently for the past 2 years. Thank you so much for that! And to the Art-Monkeys… I’m at a loss for words. I am so impressed by your loyalty. I only hope I run into you along the way here and there at other art events – hopefully at a future Dr. Sketchy’s Philly! I’ll be there drawing with all of you!

I’m sure I will look back on this experience as one of the most interesting and fun times of my life. Thank you to everyone who had a hand in it. Long live Dr. Sketchy’s!

XO,
Nicola Black

It was a very hard decision for us, but for the time being, the best one. Because we love Dr. Sketchy’s so much, we want to be sure it was left in capable hands. Molly Crabapple is accepting applications now, so feel free to apply here. We know whomever she chooses will bring you a fantastic event. Once again, thank you to all who made our run with Sketchy’s as wonderful as it has been. We look forward to seeing you all at Dr. Sketchy’s Philly in the future — we will be drinking and drawing with the rest of you. And if you liked all the promotional material for Dr. Sketchy’s Philly and are interested in working with Nicola for your upcoming design, check out her graphic design studio here. There’s no reason why we can’t stay in touch! Cheers!