The inauguration’s crushing crowds and public transit catastrophes can’t come soon enough, so Heineman Myers Contemporary Art in Bethesda is doing its part to prepare you for Obama-Con 2009 with the first inauguration-themed art event of the season. For one night only, “44” will feature art from 17 Obama-inspired artists (including Shepard Fairey, the most famous Obama artist out there). Can’t afford art? Limited-edition T-shirts will also be up for grabs. Local musician Yoko K will perform works based on the president-elect’s campaign speeches, and the mix from DJ Z-Trip played at Obama fundraisers hosted by Fairey will be in rotation. It begins with a clip of Obama’s thoughts on contemporary music: “The thing about hip-hop today is it’s smart, it’s insightful.” Proceeds from the event will benefit juvenile diabetes research and nonprofit charity organizations Cakes for Cause and Nonviolence International.
“44” IS ON DISPLAY FROM 5–10 P.M. AT HEINEMAN MYERS CONTEMPORARY ART, 4728 HAMPDEN LANE, BETHESDA. $10 DONATION. 202-415-6547