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		Home October 2008 Saxbys Coffee Dallas, TX Saxbys Coffee in October, 2008 (Friday the 3rd, 10th, 17th, & 24th)
		Report by Xai Homechan Photos by Jenice Johnson, Vinh-Luan Luu and David Rodriguez
		See photos taken by Jenice Johnson
		It’s another Friday night at Saxbys Coffee in Farmers Branch until a crowd of artists arrive and begin to rearrange the furniture. Tables are combined to make larger makeshift tables draped in black cloth, and more tables are carried in. ArtLoveMagic founder Michael Lagocki is seen improvising, pointing here-and-there as he’s directing the placement of art booths. On the outside, a tough-looking bald man sets up a PA system and runs
		through mic-check. Saxbys storeowner Bill Priestly, also bald, brews a curious concoction of thick mud-like substance. In less than 30 minutes, Saxbys Coffee is transformed into a live art scene featuring some of Dallas’ finest artists and musicians.

Spencer Garland – I’m a fan, by the way – kicks off the live music performances with his trademark folk drawl, his lyrics beyond his age. His eyes widen and roll when he blows into the harmonica as if possessed by the spirit of some musical prophet. A few sets in, the bald sound engineer returns to the stage, only this time, he’s joined by two others. As it turns out, he also sings and plays guitar for his own band. It’s Bobby Priestly (brother to Bill), and for the few songs he plays, we forget his tough demeanor and we’re nodding heads to catchy choruses and beautiful harmonies.

Coffee drinkers and art lovers were treated to an amazing night at Saxbys Coffee. Kudos to ArtLoveMagic (Justin Nygren, David Rodriguez, Michael Lagocki) and their roster of artists for putting on such a festive and positive event. The most important part of what they are doing is providing a sense of community in an increasingly disconnected world. If that isn’t art, love, and magic, then I’m not sure what is.

See photos taken by Stan Tongai

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