iam8bit (CLOSED)

Iam8bit epitomizes the nerd-gone-cool phenomenon occurring right now. It's a space run by former video game reviewers and Comic-Con attendees, which is clear based on the art they choose to exhibit. One of their earliest shows, "Super iam8bit", had over 100 artists reimagine their 80s gaming fantasies for a video game-themed show that, believe it or not, appealed to both nerds and non-nerds alike. A more recent show, "So You Created a Wormhole", dealt solely with time travel. It's seriously geeky stuff. This isn't to say that iam8bit is run by a bunch of dweebs: their shows are smart, interesting and always have a sense of humor. They've also got a good amount of street cred: Their White Canvas Project show, in collaboration with Supreme Being, saw seven world-renowned street artists collect and convert salvage and scrap to create "upcycled" canvases for their work. The gallery is co-curated by partners Jon M. Gibson and Amanda White, and boasts 4,500 square foot space including an inviting and evolving storefront, featuring both artist collaborations and iam8bit's custom wares. Their opening reception parties are actually parties—we're talking hundred+ attendees—and always draw a fascinating cross-section of locals. They're great occasions to see and meet neighborhood folks, rub elbows with up-and-coming artists, and, you know, drink a bunch of free booze. All while geeking out over the upcoming Nintendo Wii U Zelda game.