This notice was provided by Marlene Paul, Executive Director of ART 180:

ART 180’s Open Studio Series begins Tuesday, January 12 and continues until January 14, showcasing the talent and creativity of young people in challenging circumstances. Exhibitions will take place in three different locations and will include a selection of comics, mixed media tapestry, prints, music, creative writing, drumming, theater, photographs, sculpture, puppetry and a mural.

Yes, the Big Show usually steals the show. It’s the ART 180 event with the carnival-like craziness and hoopla that comes with the end of a school year and the beginning of the summer, but the smaller and more intimate Open Studio Series shines for a different reason. It’s an up close and personal glimpse at the art and ideas of young people in our fall 2009 programs. Please join us for one or all of these conversations with the young artists and program leaders. It’s a time for close observation of their amazing art and a warm celebration of support for the young artists as they work to create change in their community.

Come and see their work, hear their voices, and be inspired. Each program is free and open to the public (children welcome), so please join us and bring a friend or neighbor. Refreshments provided.

Tuesday, January 12, at 6 pm
Gallery5, 644-0005
200 W. Marshall St.
(in Jackson Ward between Adams & Madison)
Comics by Friends Association for Children
Mural by Henderson Middle School/Communities In Schools of Richmond (CIS)
Mixed media tapestry by Southside Boys & Girls Club and Prints by St. Andrew’s School

Wednesday, January 13, at 6 pm
Robinson Theater Community Arts Center, 562-9133
2903 Q St. (in Church Hill at 29th)
Music by I Have a Dream/Broad Rock Elementary
Writing by Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School
Drumming and dancing by The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club
Theater by Youth Life Foundation of Richmond

Thursday, January 14, at 6 pm
Sacred Heart Center, 230-4399
1400 Perry St. (in Manchester between Commerce & Cowardin)
Photographs by Boushall Middle School/CIS
Mixed media quilt by Elkhardt Middle School/CIS
Puppets by Elkhardt Middle School/CIS
Sculpture by Southwood Boys & Girls Club