Events & Activations
A grassy field, an empty storefront, or an underutilized public space -- all have challenges that Pipkin Creative has experience solving. We've activated spaces to create jazz shows and community farmers' markets, programed special events and large community festivals, and created art house music activations. We know how to take an empty space and turn it into a vibrant part of the community.
Kennedy Center “Couch Concerts”
(Eaton DC x Pipkin Creative)
Pipkin Creative anchor event “The Petworth Jazz Project” partnered with Eaton DC and The Kennedy Center to present two performances set in the currently in-flux “Power Plant” at The Parks DC. This was part of the Kennedy Center “Couch Concert” Virtual Performance series and featured Imani Grace and Luke Stewart (Bass) with Pat Cain (visuals). A beautiful and provocative exploration of genres and themes, the production reflected the tense and tenuous emotions of pandemic life in 2020.
Eaton Hotel "Magic Hour"
Production and curation of Washington D.C.’s most sophisticated jazz weekly performance, the “Magic Hour." Taking place in the gorgeous and lush rooftop lounge at Eaton DC, this event presents world renowned jazz artists simmering and gliding through free jazz, standards, bebop, hip hop and everything in between.
The Parks at Walter Reed
This green gem in the heart of uptown DC is a re-imagined and redeveloped parcel that formerly housed the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. At full build-out, The Parks will include 3.1 million square feet of mixed-use development and will feature adaptive reuse of existing historic buildings, new construction and over 20 acres of open space. See some great videos on their YouTube playlist.
Ideation, production, and execution of all activation events at the 66-acre The Parks at Walter Reed development. The event slate includes a jazz series, farmers market, public art, live music, DJ’s and fitness events. Together with Walnut Street Creative, the team also manages all social media channels, outreach and community engagement.
Jazz at The Parks at Walter Reed
Activating an underutilized public space with beautiful music.
Piloted in September 2017 with a 3-hour performance featuring a wandering brass band trio, kids performance a and fabulous full jazz set, the site developer client contracted with Pipkin Creative for a full summer series in 2018.
The free outdoor concert series attracted hundreds of neighborhood residents and featured some of the leading jazz musicians in DC.
Petworth Community Farmers' Market
Pipkin Creative helped establish the first Farmers' Market in Ward 4 in 2010. Still active each May through November, the market provides fresh local fruit and produce, goods, prepared foods, bread, organic meat, eggs and dairy. The market also supports WIC and matches dollar purchases to increase buying power for vulnerable and needy people.