Little-known music and art venue, Red-16, is slowly gaining notoriety throughout the local music scene. Located across from Indianola Middle School, at 127 E. 16th Ave., Red-16 takes up residence in the lower level of the Xenos Christian Fellowship Church.
“Misconceptions that evangelists are present at the shows spreading the word are unfounded and untrue,” said Ian Martin, owner and manager of the club. “The church receives no profit from any of the performances and other than donating the space has nothing to do with the venue.”
Opened last June, Red-16 has been hosting live music as often as possible, while also displaying local artists’ work. Martin hopes to run a multi-faceted club showcasing local and regional theater troupes, filmmakers, and, especially, musicians.
“Red-16 is my favorite place to play in Columbus,” touted Kyle Sowash, lead singer for the band Tom Foolery and the Mistakes. Sowash noted the intimate atmosphere as well as the air conditioning as perks of the venue. “It’s BYOB, which is nice and they keep your beer cold while you rock out,” Sowash said.
The Mistakes are having a CD release party there Friday and are looking forward to playing at their favorite club.
Besides the rock shows and release parties, Martin is confident he will be able to hold professional art gallery openings for local artists complete with drinks, music and ordourves.
With no financial backing, Red-16 relies on volunteer work and help from Martin’s friends in the industry. One of his close friends, Mandy Hartley, a senior majoring in multi-media productions at Columbus State, has lended her talents to the project.
“I’ve worked with Ian since he started this project and set up the venue’s website, www.red-16.com. About six months ago, I began working on the sound system, and now I am helping him book shows,” Hartley said.
Hartley, a member of the band Reinfield, is confident in the sound system she helped create and said she feels it is one of the best in the city.
“I just think that the bands we have sound really good, and the space is conducive to a good sound and a good time,” Hartley said.
As of right now the club is only open during the times shows are scheduled, though that will be changing come the start of Fall quarter.
Martin has plans to have Red-16 open 10 a.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday, and possibly noon to 5 p.m. Fridays. Coffee and other beverages will be on sale for the bare minimum, as well as sandwiches and snacks for anyone who wants to come and study, listen to local music, connect to the Internet or simply hang out.
As a member of the church, Martin is employed as the sound, lighting and visual maintenance man. He also fixes whatever needs attention in the church as well as in his space. Through his job, Martin was able to secure the club for free.
“We have no rent here, so overhead is next to nothing. I’m not in the business to turn a profit – I simply like being involved in the local cultural and artistic scene and this venture gives me the opportunity to do that,” Martin said. “I’m community oriented and hope to get more of the campus and city community interested in what we are doing.”
Because the location is zoned residential, each event is like a party for whoever wants to come. Alcohol is welcomed, but patrons are carded at the door as well as the window where they retrieve their beverages.
By having the space open during the week in the fall, Martin hopes to spread the word of his venue as well as provide a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for students and residents of all ages.
