by Madison Rutherford | photography by Angelina Aragon
Like many creative projects, The Starving Artist could be described as a work in progress.
O.H.S.O. Brewery + Distillery’s first cocktail-centric concept was designed by Phoenix artist Beth Jagielko, whose multi-hued murals grace all six O.H.S.O. locations in the Valley. The “upscale dive bar” features bespoke lighting fixtures, upcycled furniture and eclectic works of art. Ultimately, Jagielko envisions the space evolving to have an even more maximalist style. “I want to add a lot more,” says the self-taught artist. “I want it to be cluttered… kind of like a grandma and grandpa’s house.”
Since it opened last February, the laid-back Arcadia Lite cocktail lounge has garnered somewhat of a cult following for its dill pickle pizza, Lucky Duck claw machine and art inspired by Iranian artist Golsa Golchini, who combines Baroque and Renaissance-style paintings with vibrant street art. The result is reminiscent of both Rembrandt and Banksy. “I really like the dark, vibey paintings, because when you add a pop of color to it, it’s so fun and unique,” Jagielko says.
Quinceañera Dresses
Jagielko made the bell-shaped pendant shades suspended from the ceiling out of red quinceañera dresses from a local boutique.
Light-Up Bar Top
After hand-painting the bar to resemble Vincent van Gogh’s “The Starry Night,” Jagielko installed optical fiber to give the surface a realistic glow.
Telephone Booth
Inspired by time-worn, pub-style payphones, Jagielko came up with the idea to cover the bar’s phone booth with stickers, creating the illusion that it’s been there longer than it has.
Textured Fabrics
Opting for fabric from Hobby Lobby instead of paint or wallpaper, Jagielko followed a YouTube tutorial to position the patterned material on the walls. It also provides contrast against the custom crushed velvet banquettes and raised floral awnings.
Paintings
All of the art on the bar’s walls was either thrifted or painted by Jagielko herself and modified with spray paint. “The graffiti just makes it so unserious,” she says. “It’s very powerful.”
