The Dunes Use Rock (and Art and Fashion and Philanthropy) as Ammunition

Ora Nwabueze isn’t a typical DC lawyer. And, the kinds of events staged by his company The Dunes aren’t the typical DC “scene” happenings. Nwabueze founded The Dunes in the spring of 2009, “with the goal to support talented and committed artists, musicians, designers, and non-profits, by providing them unique exposure at unprecedented events in some of the most amazing spaces in The District.”

“I found myself spending a lot of time with all kinds of artists and also doing a lot of charity work,” said Nwabueze. “The Dunes is my attempt to streamline the two by showcasing artists who may not have a forum where they can exhibit or perform, and adding a charitable component to our events when it makes sense.”

Ora Nwabueze

The Dunes is comprised of diverse array of DC’s finest – media mavens, policy wonks, creative types, and business owners – Dunsies, as Nwabueze affectionately refers to them. While membership in the group is invitation-only, the aim is to draw from the entire DC area – not just particular social circles. “We’re basically looking for interested, creative, and good-hearted people to join the collaborative and attend the events,” said Nwabueze.

The Dunes’ strength lies with the group’s versatility. Events span just about all art forms and showcase a wide range of local venues – everything from a fashion and accessories show at Leftbank, benefiting Pediatric AIDS/HIV Care, to an exhibit of images from Uganda, to a four-band benefit rock concert.

The rock concert is Nwabueze’s passion project. “Rock as Ammunition” will be held Friday, 6 November, at the beautifully restored North Hall at Eastern Market. The musical lineup includes local bands Memphis 59, Tennis System, and Shapiro, as well as Athens, Georgia’s Spring Tigers. Nwabueze admits, “I am music-obsessed. I listen to it constantly, play guitar and go to tons of concerts. And to top it off there are two amazing non-profits here in the DC area that focus on youth music education – Girls Rock! and Guitars not Guns. This really was a no brainer.” Admission is $20 and proceeds from the evening will be divided evenly between the two organizations. The evening will also feature on-site screen printing with Truth Among Liars! and will close out with DJ Doc Rok performing a four-turntable mash-up of iconic rock and hip hop. Tickets are available online or at the door, and guests must be 18 or older.

For more information on how to get involved with The Dunes, contact Ora Nwabueze.