Some believe that the Mayan calendar, which ends on Dec. 21, 2012, marks the end of the world. The Collective, whose purpose exists to attract a younger, contemporary audience to the Farnsworth Art Museum, believes that if we’re all going to bite the dust, there’s no sense in throwing an after party after the world ends.

Actually, it’s a little more nuanced than that.

“We really want to celebrate what we thought was a very successful year for The Collective,” said David Troup, Farnsworth’s Communications Officer. “The point is to open the Farnsworth to a part of the community that has not yet felt comfortable entering the museum, so we’re hoping The Collective’s second annual party will be the kind welcoming, inviting event for all.”

Last year’s inaugural event, held in a completely transformed space of Rockland’s Bicknell Building, blew people away. Think: DJs, distressed and dirty brick walls spotlit with a giant art installations; sumptuous displays of food (in some cases food as interactive art!) More than 350 people attended last year and more than one person commented that they felt they’d been transported to a New York City night club.

This year’s event will have to be smaller, due to a smaller space; so this is your fair warning to get those advance tickets now. There may not be any left at the door.  In keeping with the tradition of transforming an industrial work space into an underground art rave, the event will be using the third floor of the Oddfellows Hall Building on School street in Rockland, donated by Ferraiolo Construction. Troup said the steering committee of The Collective (about 15 people including young professionals and artists in the area, as well as Farnsworth staff) have spent a month and a half converting this space for one night — a huge undertaking.

“Intelligent, electronic music” will kick off this dance party courtesy of Mr. Dereloid - winner of the 2012 Portland Phoenix Music Poll for Best DJ/Dance act and his collaborative partner DJ Mike Said.

Highlights to look for: 40 Paper Satellite will be shaking the drinks ($1 - $2 drinks by Down East Magazine's choice for best cocktails in Maine) and an array of good cocktail food will be available by such caterers as Maine Coast Catering and Shepherd's Pie. Just like last year, The Collective will showcase art installations by independent artists not already associated with the Farnsworth collection. Expect the art to be intriguing and to knock you off balance. Certain pieces have been chosen for their ability to add to the overall atmosphere of the theme of ‘End Of The World,' which by the way, is open to any costume interpretation if you still haven’t gotten your Halloween kicks out (though not mandatory.)

“Choose your own ending,” said Troup. “When you see the various art installations, you’ll understand what that means. As long as you’re wearing your dance shoes, I think you’re all set.”

“Last year people called it the best party of the year,” said Marney Pelletier McKenney, in Membership. “And they’re looking forward to this one being even better!”

The party starts at 9 p.m and goes to 12 a.m. Nonmembers: $25 in advance; $30 at the door. Tickets may be purchased online at farnsworthmuseum.org/ticket-end-world-after-party, or at the Museum Store or by calling 207-596-6256. For more information on how to be part of The Collective or when they’ll appear next, visit: facebook.com/farnsworthcollective

 Kay Stephens can be reached at kaystephens@penbaypilot.com