Marquette is preparing for a weekend of creativity, music, and community at The Crib. The COZEE Art & Music Shows, curated by local artist and photographer Jacob Darner, return from October 18th through the 20th. This weekend-long event is set to feature a combination of visual art and live performances, creating an eclectic atmosphere for both art enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
Jacob shared the ethos behind the COZEE shows, emphasizing their role as a welcoming platform for local creatives. "As an artist, one of the biggest challenges is finding a platform for your work. The COZEE shows offer a less intense, more accessible way for artists to showcase their work and connect with the community," he explained. With no strict theme for the shows, the focus remains on fostering creativity and building connections.
The upcoming COZEE shows will take place at The Crib, a coffeehouse and roastery on Marquette’s Third Street. Each night will feature three musical acts, with local favorites and a special guest band from Chicago, Daarling, performing on Friday.
Jacob is especially excited about branching out musically for this event. "It feels pretty cool to have a band from out of town excited to come and play in Marquette," he said. "Marquette is such a great place for music, and it’s awesome to see people from bigger cities recognize that."
The event isn’t just about music—Saturday, October 19th, will feature the Art on Tap series, where local artists discuss their work in an informal setting. Previous conversations have touched on the challenges of burnout, staying inspired, and finding balance as a creative. An upcoming Art on Tap at Superior Culture on Friday, September 27th will feature a makeup artist who will explore color theory, and the speaker for the October Art on Tap is yet to be announced.
As both the curator and an artist himself, Jacob plays an active role in shaping the aesthetic of the shows. When asked if his personal artistic vision influences the curation process, he reflected, "I guess there is a bit of me in the shows. As the curator, I have a hand in everything, from organizing the submissions to designing the event posters." This sense of ownership and connection to the event is evident in how passionately he talks about each element.
Kurt discussed the upcoming events with Jacob Darner:
Beyond COZEE, Jacob is involved in the Marquette Art Tour, which this year ties directly into the weekend’s festivities. The tour’s fall event will culminate with COZEE serving as the official afterparty, further cementing the show’s role in Marquette’s bustling arts scene.
The COZEE Art & Music Shows at The Crib promise to deliver a memorable blend of art, music, and community. Whether you’re an art lover, a music enthusiast, or just someone looking for a cozy place to hang out, this event has something for everyone.
For artists interested in submitting work, you can contact Jacob at thatdangdarner98@gmail.com, or find him (and a variety of links) on Instagram. The deadline is October 5th, and submissions are open to all.