By Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine Staff

If you’ve ever wandered through Las Vegas’ Antique Alley and found yourself mesmerized by a mix of atomic-age glam, kitschy collectibles, and mid-century modern treasures, chances are you’ve stepped into the world of Chris Cope. A self-proclaimed maximalist, artist, entertainer, and serial entrepreneur, Chris is the heartbeat behind Mid Mod Casa, Mid Mod Crisis, and Party Fowl Antiques. He’s as vibrant as the artifacts he collects, and just as full of stories.

Photo courtesy of Chris Cope

Chris arrived in Las Vegas in 2002, tagging along with his roommate, none other than drag queen royalty, Shannel, as she launched a new show. From there, Chris dabbled in visual merchandising and banking before launching a 16-year career in entertainment and balloon décor with Balloons with a Twist. But in 2017, the glitter of performance gave way to a new passion: vintage and antique curation.

“Eight years later,” he says, “I’m still running my businesses and have curated my home to entertain guests, models, and photographers worldwide, from Australia to Chile and everywhere in between.”

Mid Mod Crisis: More Than Just a Catchy Name

The phrase “Mid Mod Crisis” is more than clever branding. For Chris, it was a very real chapter of his life. “Last year involved divorce, moving, a minor nervous breakdown, car trouble in the desert, sickness, and a lot of grief.” But amid the chaos, he also rediscovered himself, curated his dream home, and came back stronger—personally and professionally.
The Art of the Hunt

Chris’ ability to unearth vintage gems isn’t just luck; it’s a finely tuned art form. From estate sales to garage finds, thrift stores to high-end vintage markets, he thrives in the thrill of the hunt. “Antiques and vintage items haven’t skyrocketed in price like everything else,” he notes. “Plus, you’re saving something from a landfill.”

His advice for the budding collector? Start small. “Pick a favorite piece of furniture or artwork and let it anchor your space. Build from there. Tell a color story, create visual textures, and play with groupings. Three is a good number. Put the tallest in the middle, and shortest on the left.”

For maximalists like Chris, it’s all about layering—groupings of 10 to 20 items aren’t uncommon. “More is more,” he laughs. “I love creating little clusters of curiosity.”

So what keeps people coming back to Mid Century Modern design? For Chris, it’s about a shared nostalgia and the era’s forward-thinking optimism. “The atomic age sparked a fascination with space travel and global culture. Furniture design from that period is sleek, functional, and has stood the test of time.”

Passion, Purpose, and Personal Connection

Chris doesn’t just sell objects; he tells stories. “I’ve handled world-class antiques and rescued items from the trash; both are equally special if they tell a story.” That deep emotional resonance is what sets him apart. Profit is secondary to passion. “I love finding the right object for the right person.”

And he’s always finding treasures. One favorite? A stunning coat once owned by Liberace, designed by trans showgirl and costume designer Hedy Jo Star. Another? His zebra statue, Zebediah, who joined him on a healing road trip to Texas.

Photo courtesy of Chris Cope

What’s Next? (Spoiler: A Lot.)

As if running multiple businesses wasn’t enough, Chris is also launching a higher-end vintage store, expanding into home staging and furniture rentals, and growing his design and art businesses. “I didn’t know you could actually choose your own schedule,” he says. “Now I have the freedom to live the life I’ve always dreamed of.”

One of his newest projects? Staging a cutting-edge crypto club in the Las Vegas Arts District with vintage furniture and found objects. “I’ve surrounded myself with the right people who know my value, and now we’re building something incredible together.”

Where to Find Him (Good Luck!)

Chris is always on the go, whether it’s Arizona, California, or a deep dive into the back room of a thrift store. But you can catch him at his five spaces inside the Antique Alley Mall (1126 S. Main Street), or digitally through his colorful array of Instagram accounts:

Antiques & Finds: @midmodcrisis & @partyfowlantiques

Home Staging & Rentals: @midmodcasa

Art & Design: @finetimedesigns

Chris Cope isn’t just curating rooms, he’s curating a life full of adventure, artistry, and unapologetic joy. Whether you’re hunting for a time-worn treasure, redecorating your home, or just looking for a little inspiration, step into Chris’ world. It’s bold, it’s brilliant, and it’s always in style.

As for that final burning question: boxers, briefs, or commando? “Yes,” he laughs. “All of the above.”

This article was originally published in the 2025 Arts & Entertainment Issue of Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine, and can be read in its original format here.