By Justin Gilmore

If there’s anything to hope for, it’s that the weather will be nice for the coming First Friday events this Friday, Nov. 3. Not only for the once-a-month freedom of street-drinking, but equally as important for the frankly excellent array of artistic works that are to be showed off within the streets of Oakland.

Among the most intriguing of this month’s Art Murmur will undoubtedly prove to be the showing of Evan Hobart’s work. Consisting exclusively of intricate ceramic works pieces, Hobart’s creations are as stunning as they are provoking. Synthesizing beast-like formations, such as dinosaur skulls, alongside highly detailed urban cityscapes that include subway lines, vehicles, homes, smokestacks and more, Hobart’s creations are nothing less than beautifully constructed miniature worlds. Showing at Crown Nine (461A Ninth St.) in Old Oakland from 6 to 9 p.m., it’s sure to make your night worth it despite the weather.

Dovetailing this unique exhibit is yet another non-traditional offering: Unraveled hosted at the Creative Growth Art Center (355 24th St.). Consisting of textile-based works by artists Tony Pedemonte, Carlos Perez and Judith Scott, the exhibit seeks to explore the repetitivity of action and intuitive reaction in order to create sculpturally interesting, three-dimensional works. Unique both in it’s composition and format, the assemblage of hooked rugs and ceaselessly wrapped three-dimensional objects will undoubtedly be worth checking out.

Next up on the must-see list is an exhibit hosted my Manna Gallery (473 25th St.) consisting of two distinct showings, Spirit Series and Sacred Architecture. Spirit Series shows off artist Elaine Maute’s newly created minimalist works that range from oil paintings and mixed media creations that are inspired by both luminous styles and subtle minimal tones. Equally as worth seeing will be Sacred Architecture, which includes the work of Daniel Weber. Tending to architecture, Weber seeks to elucidate the creation of sacred structures by use of mixed-media creations made from molded maple veneer. Using simple lines, his works create a sense of relaxation and tranquility that is refreshing in contrast to Oakland’s daily grind.

With so many great offerings and potentially another night of cheap street-side drinks, November’s First Friday is sure to offer something for everyone. Just be sure to get there early, so as to ensure that you won’t miss out of any of what the night has to offer and you’ll most certainly be starting your November off right!