Saturday, February 11, 2012

Friday, Mar. 12, 2010

Youth Art Show premieres

Event set for Ted Falasco Arts Center

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The Los Baños Arts Council is hosting an event coordinators are hoping will remain on the community's calendar every year following. A youth art exhibition will be held today through Sunday in honor of Youth Art Month, which is recognized throughout the United States each March.

Coordinators Laura Corben and Sharon Caredio felt there wasn't a better time to start the local event up again.

"There have been youth art shows before," Corben said. "But we're hoping it becomes a more regular event."

The exhibit will feature art work of all mediums -- watercolor, photography, acrylic, sculpture, ceramics -- from youth in kindergarten through 12th-grade throughout the Los Baños Unified School District, Our Lady of Fatima School and home-schooled students. Corben said as of the deadline, there were more than 100 entries set to take center stage at the Ted Falasco Arts Center, 1155 Fifth St.

"Whether art programs are funded by the district or not, art is a part of the human experience," Corben said, "and students aren't going to stop being creative. It doesn't take a lot to inspire creativity in children. They've got it. So turn 'em loose."

Corben said what makes the event worthwhile for attendees of any age is that it is not about "fancy art," it's about art that is inspiring to younger generations and the artists themselves who see their work featured.

"Art is an essential part of their lives," she said. "I really hope there will be a good turnout from the community."

The exhibit opening will be held tonight from 6 to 8, Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

During Saturday's run, there will be a variety of activities for children during the day. Corben said she's looking forward to the Los Baños High School art and photography clubs assisting with the events.

"It's a celebration of art and having them there to help the younger kids, it's a benefit for everyone," Corben said.

Caredio said in comparison to other communities, Los Baños is "way behind the times." While the community has grown in population, it hasn't grown in opportunities for youth as far as arts and culture are concerned, she said.

"Many of our students are musical or drama performers and many are involved in the visual arts but must travel to other cities and communities to enjoy or be involved in their passion," Caredio said. "Art is a billion dollar industry and we are seriously overlooking it here in Los Baños. That is unfortunate. I myself am very supportive of the agricultural community, sports, music, and drama. We need to support each other to co-exist and become a well-rounded community."

For more information contact Sharon Caredio at scaredio@losbanosusd.k12.ca.us or call (209)675-2787 or Joan Bengston at (209)261-6171.