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What Art U? Show Returns For Second Year
Youth art show spanning art media showcases budding local talent
May 7, 2024 at 8:00 AM
Alfonso Soler
Organized by OpenedEyes, the second annual What Art U? student art showcase will take place at the Bayfront Convention Center. The show features multimedia art from students across Erie county, including work from the Neighborhood Art House.
SATURDAY, MAY 18
Back for its second year, the What Art U? art show will feature the works of a multitude of young artists, this year at a new location. Previously hosted at the Erie Art Museum, the event — sponsored by OpenedEyes — will be expanding to the Bayfront Convention Center for this year's showcase.
This year, the event has partnered with several surrounding school districts for the submission of artwork, including Harbor Creek, Millcreek, Wattsburg, Collegiate Academy, and the Neighborhood Art House. Thanks to these collaborations, submissions are expected from between 175 to 250 young artists in the area.
Drawings, paintings, sculptures, and other media will be on display, but this year's event will host more than just visual art. A fashion show is slated for the afternoon, featuring designs and creations from stylist Kyle Jordan that reflect the OpenedEyes organization. There will also be a poetry portion of the show, allowing students to perform spoken word pieces on stage. Wrapping up the day will be a segment featuring live performances from organizations such as Erie Dance Theater, along with other solo acts.
New this year is the opportunity to purchase select pieces of artwork through a silent auction being held throughout the day.
The event is gearing up to be family friendly, with photo booths and 360 cameras available to capture the day as well as live artwork creation throughout. There will be a raffle held, as well as vendors and an activity station for younger children.
Submissions are still being accepted for the show through May 10 and must be done so through the young artist's school/organization. To ask any questions or for more information on the process, contact Ceasar Westbrook at westbrook@openedeyes.org.
1 p.m. to 5 p.m. // Bayfront Convention Center, 1 Sassafras Pier // For more info: facebook.com/openedeyesnonprofit