Last night we hit up the grand opening fundraiser and silent art auction at the Arsenal–a unique space that mixes fashion, art, photography and events under one (fashionable) roof. We ignored hipster girls dancing in really bad camel-toe inducing high-waisted acid wash jean shorts and (tried) to ignore the absinthe shots. Though we hovered dangerously close, we were disciplined enough to stick with the PBR. Moving on.

Action at the Arsenal

The Lovely Bob Bland of Brooklyn Royalty

Art up for Bids

Not only serving as headquarters for acclaimed Brooklyn fashion line Brooklyn Royalty, the Arsenal fills a needed niche in good ole Billyburg. Explains Bob Bland, the multi-talented designer of Brooklyn Royalty:

I created the Arsenal because I wanted to have a place where fashion professionals, design professionals, photographers, where all the independent creative individuals in Williamsburg can come and have a space where they can affordably create work. Because, especially during the recession, it’s been hard for everyone, including my brand, Brooklyn Royalty, to just get by at all. So when I was thinking of ways to help my brand succeed, it made sense to do something like this, where everybody can work together and succeed and survive in the recession. It’s not just for fashion anymore.

I’ve been producing fashion shows and other events for a very long time besides just designing Brooklyn Royalty and other brands. I definitely know how hard it is to find an affordable event space in New York and I know I’m beating everyone’s price right now because I can and because I want to.  I also offer event planning services, as well. I know everyone you need to know to have a cheaply-run event, but beautiful. If you want an event that looks like it cost ten times what you paid for it, that’s something I can do for you.

So, after several PBRs, breaking the balcony “only six people on balcony at a time!” rules, listening to the DJ play Phil Collins, we said sayonara to the beautiful art-filled space and knew we would be there again someday soon.