LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Graffiti outside a new art museum has sparked a feud in the Arts District over the future of First Friday, the free monthly festival that has drawn thousands of visitors since 2002.
The executive director of the Southern Nevada Art Museum says massive crowds are causing problems and wants organizers to make major changes to the event. He has suggested charging admission to limit attendance.
Organizers say that the idea goes against their mission of keeping First Friday free, open, and family-friendly.
Museum reports vandalism, bathroom issues
The Southern Nevada Art Museum opened on March 6, the same day as the monthly First Friday event. Chris Davin, executive director of the museum, said they experienced multiple issues within hours.
“When we opened, we got vandalized. And the security did nothing. They actually watched them draw the graffiti on the wall,” Davin said.
Graffiti appeared just feet from the front door of the museum after its first First Friday last month.
Davin raised concerns about restrooms.
“There aren’t enough bathrooms,” he said. “They’re depending upon the businesses to use their bathrooms to help take care of the toilet and the porta-potty aspect.”
He also raised concerns about the crowd.
“They’re not coming here to enjoy the art. It’s a local hangout,” Davin said.
The museum is now placing fencing outside its doors to keep groups away from the building.
Organizers respond with enhanced security measures
In a statement, First Friday organizers said they are committed to ensuring an amazing experience for artists, attendees, and local businesses.
First Friday is always committed to doing everything possible to ensure an amazing experience for our artists, attendees, and all local businesses, and we always treat any feedback or new reported concerns with the utmost attention and seriousness,” organizers said. “Our event, held for over two decades, will continue to host a visible and large presence from LVMPD, the city of Las Vegas Marshals, and a substantial private security presence, whom we coordinate with to take into account new issues as they may arise month to month and plan for accordingly.
Organizers said they have a zero-tolerance policy for vandalism and direct such actions to be swiftly reported to authorities in the rare circumstances they occur during the public event.
“Due to recent late-night issues brought to our attention across events in Las Vegas and Downtown broadly, this month’s event will close earlier than usual at 10 p.m. with an enhanced law enforcement/security presence and a modified footprint to emphasize our focus on curating community, culture, creativity, and safe family-friendly offerings while hosting our 100+ local artists, craftspersons, musicians, and vendors,” organizers said.
Other businesses, artists support event
Other businesses in the Arts District said they do not want to see changes made to the event. Pharmacy Boardshop said the foot traffic they receive during the event surpasses any other weekend.
“Sometimes it could be overwhelming,” said Kemper, manager of Pharmacy Boardshop. “But if you don’t like the crowd of a First Friday, then don’t stay open too late. Like, maybe close regular business hours.”
Kemper said the event helps businesses reach new customers.
“It’s a good way for you to get your business out there,” he said. “People who come down for First Fridays aren’t necessarily, like, downtown people. People who are downtown know that we’re here, but people are just finding out that there’s a skate shop in downtown Las Vegas.”
Emerging artist Rocao Ruiz said she looks forward to showcasing his work.
“It brings all kinds of people, like tourists, locals. Locals love it. Young people. So, yeah, it’s been really positive,” Ruiz said.
Ruiz said she will have an exhibit open during Friday’s First Friday.
Davin said changes need to be made.
“If we have better organization, it will be a lot better of an event,” he said.
The museum plans to be open for extended hours during Friday’s First Friday event, but will have fencing up around the building. Museum officials said if they have another negative experience, they will no longer participate and push harder for changes to be made.
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