Arts News Vol. 3 No. 3 April May 2024

ARTS NEWS

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY

CHOCOLATE CITY # 11: Lucas Dean

ARTS NEWS

Vol. 3 Number 3

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY April / May 2024

HEAD DESIGNER: KOFI KARIKARI (@Kofis_art_)

EDITIOR-IN-CHIEF: DONNELL TAYLOR (@vaze_haze)

WRITER: DAWNE HORIZONS

PHOTOGRAPHER:

RANDY REESE JR. (Labels Free Media)

LUCAS DEAN (@deanphotoz)

15000 Potomac Town Place Woodbridge, VA 22191

Wed–Thurs 12-7pm

Fri-Sat 12-9pm Sun 12-5pm

Cover Photo by: LUCAS DEAN

12 30 36 28

Poetic Visions of a Nation Opens at Open Space Arts

Donnell Taylor II

Photography: Randy Reese Jr.

On a lively evening in February, Open Space Arts played host to the opening reception of “Poetic Visions of a Nation,” a special exhibit celebrating the rich history and achievements of the African American community. The exhibit, which features a collection of powerful and evocative artworks, pays homage to the countless contributions that Black Americans have made to our nation’s history and culture.

The works depicted the everyday lives and struggles of Black Americans, from the joys to the tragedies, even works that spilled onto the gallery floor. Photographer Lucas Dean’s capture of the District of Columbia area really gave visitors a personal relation to how close in the community these artists are.

The exhibit aims to delve into Langston Hughes’ poem “I, Too” and its broader implications on American society, history, and culture. It seeks to convey the evolution of African American identity, the ongoing

Guests were welcomed with light refreshments and live music as they explored the exhibit, which included paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed media.

struggle for civil rights, and the significance of diverse voices in shaping the American narrative.

The opening reception was a vibrant celebration of Black history and culture, and attendees engaged in lively conversations about the nation’s past, present, and future. The exhibit is now closed, but future exhibits at Open Space Arts are just as intricate and engaging.

CHOCOLATE CITY # 3: Lucas Dean

High School Senior Art Scholarship

The first Jewell Pratt Burns Scholarship was offered by the Prince William Art Society in 2008, and except for the pandemic years when county high schools went to remote learning, it has provided one or two high school seniors with $1,000 each which can be applied to tuition, books, art supplies or whatever is the greatest help in their pursuit of a career in art.

To be eligible to apply, students must live in Prince William County or the City of Manassas or Manassas Park. They may attend a public or private high school or be home schooled, but they must be graduating seniors accepted into a Fine Art or Art Education program in a two or four year college. At schools where majors are not declared upon admission, they are asked to state their intention to pursue a two or four year degree in art or art education. The JPB Scholarship is a competitive scholarship, so there may be one or there may be two offered in a giv-

en year, depending on the applicants. Students select among their works and submit a portfolio they feel best demonstrates their talent. They write and submit a letter or essay stating the reasons they should receive the award and demonstrating their ability to verbally convey their passion for art and their dreams for their future. They also have to request a letter of recommendation from an art teacher attesting to their demonstrated commitment as a student of art.

Those who are selected based on their portfolios and letters meet with a panel of PWAS members for a twenty minute interview. They are encouraged to bring any original work they have, and using it, to describe what they intended to convey, how successful they feel they were, any changes they would make, and how they plan to continue to challenge themselves. Of course, particularly skillful or intriguing work can provoke quite a bit more conversation, and twenty minutes passes quickly.

Students who participate, whether they win one of the two monetary awards or not, add to their experience assembling and presenting a special purpose portfolio and interviewing with a panel. Feedback confirms this is an experience that increases a student’s confidence and practice verbalizing their creative ideas, and boosts their willingness to submit to future competitions, critiques and jury processes. Winners and their families, friends and teachers are invited to an award reception in May where they receive their scholarship check and certificate. The final deadline to apply this year is April 23. Procedures, addresses and some additional details can be found on the PWAS web site: princewilliamartsociety.com/ scholarships-outreach or PrinceWilliamArtSociety.com and click on “Scholarship” in the tool bar along the top.

CHOCOLATE CITY # 9: Lucas Dean

Clearbrook Center of the Arts

Community Arts Show Reception Recap

The Clearbrook Center of the Arts Community Arts Show was a vibrant and eclectic event that showcased the talents of local artists. The show, hosted by Amanda Lin, featured a diverse range of artwork, from paintings to digital art and interactive installations.

The first and second floors of the gallery were adorned with artwork, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience for visitors. Some of the artists were dressed in punk clothing, adding to the unique and edgy atmosphere of the event.

Local artists performed throughout the night, setting an amazing tone for the evening. Visitors were also able to interact with the artists and learn more about their creative processes. Snacks and light refreshments were served, providing a casual and relaxed atmosphere for guests to mingle and enjoy the art.

Overall, the Clearbrook Center of the Arts Community Arts Show was a successful and well-attended event that showcased the diverse talents of local artists and provided a unique and engaging experience for visitors.

Photography: Randy Reese Jr.

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL BOARD

THE FOLLOWING WERE ELECTED AND APPOINTED AS DIRECTORS FOR FY22/23-FY23/24:

CHAIR: ALICE MERGLER

TREASURER: PETER ALTEN

SECRETARY: SEAN PECK

VICE CHAIR FOR MARKETING: DAVID ROBERTS

VICE CHAIR FOR PROGRAMMING: KIM B MILLER

VICE CHAIR FOR NOMINATIONS: JORDAN EXUM

“The Arts COUNCIL is more than art it’s an opportunity!”

“How are you inspired?”

CHOCOLATE CITY # 14: Lucas Dean

CHOCOLATE CITY # 6: Lucas Dean

ARTS COUNCIL 101

Alice Mergler PWC Chair

Since becoming Chair, I have turned into kind of a missionary for the Prince William County Arts Council, for I am often asked, “Just what is the Council?” For this article I am turning to an old Council Brochure to give an informed answer!

The Prince William County Arts Council is a membership organization established by the Prince William County Park Authority in 1992. Our mission is to promote and support local arts, artists and arts organizations, and to enlighten and educate audiences about the arts in the County, and the Cities of Manassas and Manassas Park. Membership is open to individuals, non-profit arts organizations, for-profit arts groups, businesses, and associate members. Our Members represent music, dance, theater, visual arts, literary art, and applied arts.

Our Council becomes the arts community’s collective voice by increasing visibility through media outreach, public presentations and our website to encourage networking partnerships and collaboration among the

arts. We also sponsor workshops and programs for our members, and for students in our schools. Our website, PWCArtsCouncil.org features arts calendars, Arts Council Members profiles and contacts, as well as photos of events.

Each County Supervisor appoints an Appointee to the Council to help connect us to the many activities of the County. Each of the eight Appointees serves for three years, representing his or her district. Also, each appointee serves on the Art Council’s Board. It is a good idea to get to know the Appointee from your District to stay well informed of the many arts occasions.

Hopefully, this is a good answer to the Question! If not, a great way to learn more is to drop by our new member’s location, Edutainment at Stonebridge Shopping Center where you can pick up a copy of this magazine!

“It is the glory and good of Art, that art remains the one way possible of speaking truth.”

Robert Browning

The Ring and the Book

“Hibiscus” photography by Kelly Haneklau

Every third Monday at the Clearbrook Center of the Arts, nestled within the vibrant Tackett’s Mill Shopping Center in Lake Ridge, Virginia, a diverse community gathers to explore the power of expression and creativity. Hosted by the esteemed Poet Kim B Miller, Manassas & Manassas Park, the event, aptly named “Speak Into Existence,” is a haven for individuals eager to hone their public speaking skills and share their artistic talents. It’s a transformative experience where individuals come together to explore the art of public speaking and celebrate the power of expression.

The evening begins with a masterful lesson in the art of public speaking, led by our knowledgeable facilitator. From dissecting vocal “tics” to exploring common mistakes made by speakers, the session delves deep into the nuances of effective

Unleashing Creativity and Confidence: A Night of Public Speaking and Open Mic at Clearbrook Center of the Arts

communication. Participants learn invaluable strategies for managing stage fright and captivating audiences, all while staying true to the theme of the event. As the session draws to a close, attendees are armed with newfound confidence and practical tools to elevate their speaking prowess.

But the learning doesn’t end there. With hearts racing and anticipation mounting, it’s time for the much-anticipated open mic segment. Like a potluck feast of artistic expression, attendees eagerly step up to share their talents with the supportive audience. From soul-stirring poetry to electrifying musical performances, each contribution adds a unique flavor to the evening’s tapestry of creativity.

One attendee, a student from Colgan’s Performing Arts High School, was inspired by the evening’s atmosphere of encouragement and inclusivity. Although she didn’t take the stage this time, she expressed a desire to participate in future events, eager to share her talents with the community. Her enthusiasm mirrors that of many others who see “Speak Into Existence” as a platform to express themselves and connect with like-minded individuals. It is evident that this platform is more than just a stage—it is a nurturing environment where aspiring artists can flourish and grow. As the evening unfolded, connections were forged, ideas were exchanged, and inspiration flowed freely. Networking conversations buzzed with excitement as attendees shared their visions and aspirations. And while our stomachs may not have been filled with food, our souls were nourished by the collective spirit of creativity and camaraderie.

Looking ahead to Speak Into Existence Open Mic, anticipation is high as we prepare to celebrate Women’s History Month. It promises to be an evening dedicated to honoring the voices and achievements of women throughout history, amplifying their stories and contributions.

So mark your calendars, spread the word, and join us for an unforgettable evening of arts, entertainment, and community at Clearbrook Center of the Arts. Together, let’s speak our truths, unleash our creativity, and inspire each other to reach new heights.

Making a Dent With Art for People in Need

Mary Rook

On a Friday night’s eve, a small but mighty group of people meet quietly online, taking minutes, recording the budget, discussing the big gala, and getting down to brass tacks. The tacks? Raising money for local charities. The brass? Doing it through the arts.

The big gala is an enormous fundraising event that features performance artists, silent art auctions, live and DJed music, and red-carpet-ready guests. Last year, poet laureate emerita, Kim B Miller, and American Idol alumni, Aaron Kelly, were among the performers. Yes, it was a hit.

Through ticket sales, donations, and sponsors, the AOLC can raise funds enough to keep local charities afloat. And they’re all volunteers. That’s right, those tedious Friday night meetings are done in everyone’s spare (and not so spare) time. Each member of the board has an intimate love of the arts and a passionate belief in their own duty to

better their community. But, there’s other reasons, too.

I eat, sleep, and breathe this stuff,” says Kelly Haneklau, President and founder of Arts of Life Charities (AOLC).

When your best friend calls you and has a passion and you believe in her and you’re her number one fan? You say “yes,” says Karen Propheter, Events Committee Chair.

“I’m a career volunteer,” says Cindy Lancaster, Vice President and Secretary. “Kelly and I have known each other for years.”

“Kelly bribed me to be the next treasurer,” jokes Peter Alten. “She promised me a matchbox car.”

So how did this courageous and whimsical band of pure-hearted helpers come to be?

In 2019, Kelly mixed her personal philosophies with a splash of ingenuity. “The art of life is helping others and having a good time while doing it. That’s how this whole idea came together,” Kelly says. As an

artist herself, Kelly knew the power the arts have in bringing people together. Though they also do small events throughout the year, the gala is the AOLC’s biggest fundraising event and every penny raised, after expenses, goes back to the charity of their choice.

The beneficiaries of these funds have one simple criterion. “We are looking for organizations who help people specifically. Not the environment or political campaigns, etc.,” Kelly says. “It has to be people-centric: homelessness, food insecurity, equity, things like that.”

In 2022, AOLC’s beneficiary was Therapeutic Adventures (TA), a charity that provides adaptive sports, outdoor adventures, camps, and therapeutic retreats for persons of all ages with disabilities and other complex medical needs. The board had voted unanimously to fund their organization. “In 2019, before we were an official charity, we were just volunteering to help. I called the executive director and

told him I wanted to raise money for TA,” says Kelly, “I said, ‘You don’t know me and you probably think I’m crazy or an angel.’”

Then, at the first unofficial gala event, the AOLC team found out what exactly the Executive Director, Mark Andrews, thought of Kelly’s call. “I was driving down the road coming back from a veterans’ retreat when I got a call from an angel.” He also later said the money they donated had helped them survive COVID. “If it weren’t for that money, we would have had to close our doors,” he said. “That’s when I knew we were doing what we needed to be doing,” Kelly says.

As a 501(c)3 non-profit, AOLC is legally able to grant funds to charities in Virginia, Maryland, and DC, but they have plans to keep growing. “Right now, the immediate dream is to get our local communities in better shape,” Kelly says. “Our next stop is regionally, then nationally, then globally.” Globalization may be a bigger dream, but that is the level to which AOLC has committed itself. “We’d love to see all communities thriving, people working together, helping each other, eradicating challenges that the people in need are facing,” Kelly says. “I know I won’t see that in my lifetime, but we can certainly make a good dent in it.”

Right now, AOLC needs two things—donations and volunteers. The big gala takes place in the fall, and though it’s their largest fundraiser, AOLC needs donations all year round. “We don’t keep money except for operating costs,” Kelly says. The board of volunteers hopes that in the future, they can employ people for some spots, but the board will mostly remain unpaid to show the community their commitment is selfless. “We all have different sets of skills and we bring them together for a common good and purpose,” says Cindy. “We make it work and do good things.”

Writing for Wellness

Dawne Horizons

“When I’m perplexed I write. When I’m excited I write. When I’m sad I write. When I’m mad I write.

I write to express the sincerity of my heart.

I write to express the joys of my soul

I write to release the feelings in me that by pouring out allows me to stay free. “

Taken from, My Solace an excerpt from, Spoken Words from the Heart by Dawne ‘Essence’ Horizons

Feelings and thoughts get caught up in the mind and entangled in the soul. When your soul gets overwhelmed with the cares of life you begin to ‘act out’ in certain ways. You see, the soul is your mind, will and emotions. Those things that get in your gates (your five senses: see, hear, touch, taste, and smell) namely your eye gate (things you see, watch or observe) and ear gate (things you hear whether past or present) affect your soul. Your soul can be affected negatively or positively based on how you feel or view those interactions to be. One of the ways to process your feelings or cleanse your soul so you can rest and experience wellness, is to write. I’m sure you have heard people tell you to write your feelings down or keep a journal but you’ve probably thought: I’m not a writer or I don’t know how to do that or I don’t have time for that. But the truth is you don’t have time NOT to do write because the thoughts and feelings swirling around in your head are costing you time, energy, sleep, productivity, relationships and maybe even your job. Now that’s expensive! And why let negativity take up space in your head or in your life,

rent free?! Especially when you can process and release yourself from the negative thoughts and feelings, clearing your mind of the clutter thereby releasing your soul from perpetual cycles and trauma. Once released you can then be the real you, that energetic, happy, positive person you used to be.

I encourage you to write. Whatever you are thinking, just write it down or speak it into your smartphone and let it take notes for you. It doesn’t have to be a specific format or formula. You can simply right words down on the page or a numbered list or bullet points, or no form at all! You can simply use crayons, markers, pencils or a pen to write words or even scribble them on a piece of paper. The possibilities are endless. The main point is to write.

The purpose of writing is to get what’s in your heart and in your mind, taking up space, out of you and on to the paper. It’s a dump of your thoughts and feelings on to the paper. No one has to read it, unless you want someone to. The only purpose is to dump your thoughts and feelings out in a safe place so you don’t hold on to it any longer. This is how you free your mind and soul. This is writing for wellness. Start today! Be on the lookout for this workshop at the Chinn Library coming soon.

If this article resonated with you and you want the specific steps to clear your mind and free your soul then Connect with me to get your Free Writing for Wellness ebook where I give you 12 steps to experience freedom and heal from trauma. You can follow me @dawnehorizons on FB, IG, LI, TikTok or www.askdawne.com

Dawne is a mother of five adult children, grandmother of four girls, Poet, Author, Keynote Speaker, Wellness Coach and Owner of Dawne Horizons Spiritual Spa & Healing Ctr LLC located in Dumfries, VA. Check out her self published poetry book, entitled, Spoken Words from the Heart or her new Amazon Bestselling poetry anthology entitled, “100 Poems & Possibilities for Healing” by lead author, Laura DiFranco and 30 others from around the globe!

Strangers and Tunnels: Lucas Dean

Mirrored Messengers: Lucas Dean

Tema Choir USA

Tema Choir USA, under the leadership of Director and Founder, Ebenezer A. Allotey, performed for the active adult community of Acclaim at Belmont Bay on Saturday, Feb 17.

This ‘mini’ concert was the 3rd of several African American History programs at Acclaim, to include a ‘Cultural Colors’ Fashion Show as well as a Buffalo Soldiers Art Exhibit earlier this month.

Tema Choir performed ‘Life Every Voice’, “We Shall Overcome’, ‘Your Grace & Mercy’ and other uplifting, heartwarming musical melodies in English and in the choir’s Ghanaian language.

Music gladdens the heart and brings people together. The concert truly brought joyful smiles to the faces of both the residents and staff. The choristers enjoyed refreshments and fellowship with the residents following the concert.

Acclaim at Belmont Bay sends a big ‘THANK YOU’ to Tema Choir USA, and we want them to know that they are welcome to come back to visit (and sing) anytime.

Continue to foster friendship and unity, while building a better world through music and community service.

With Gratitude, Sonia L. Ellis

Program Director, Acclaim at Belmont Bay

Greater Manassas Children’s Choir –Performers (and now Songwriters)

The Greater Manassas Children’s Choir (GMCC) serves students in kindergarten through 8th grade from public and private schools, as well as homeschools, with wonderful music education and performance opportunities. The young singers in GMCC are divided into three age groups and are under the direction of Rebecca Verner (Older Choir), Susan Dommer (Younger Choir), and Nicole Golder (Kinder Choir). Each choir group has a professional accompanist. The Greater Manassas Children’s Choir is a program of the Manassas Chorale, a member of the Prince William County Arts Council.

The Greater Manassas Children’s Choir provides a much-needed enrichment opportunity for all students in Prince William County and surrounding areas. Although many children sing in their school choruses and church choirs, GMCC offers children an additional learning environment and better understanding of singing and performing with others. This year the GMCC singers were introduced to a dynamic group songwriting process through a professional duo who worked with the children to create original songs. Made possible by an Arts in Practice grant from the

Susan Dumar

Virginia Commission for the Arts (VCA) and generous individual donations, GMCC was able to contract with Kid Pan Alley (Paul and Cheryl Reisler), a group on the popular VCA Teaching Artists Roster. This highly experienced, professional team came to four regular GMCC rehearsals and worked with the children in two groups, upper grades (58) and lower grades (K-4).

With Cheryl at the whiteboard and Paul on the guitar, they encouraged young singers through a collaborative songwriting process to create lyrics and then melody for their very own song. After tossing around a lot of topics, each group decided on a theme they could all love. The older group chose the subject of sunsets, and the younger group chose the theme of “people we love.” Cheryl and Paul Reisler worked with the students in two-hour sessions for four weeks to hone their ideas on lyrics and melodies into two, new choral masterpieces!

The level of concentration, sophisticated use of poetic language, and application of musical knowledge was exceptional work for this age group, or any age group! The Music Standards of Learning for Virginia Public Schools supports goals such as thinking and acting creatively “to transform ideas and

emotions into distinct forms of musical expression” and “to understand and apply a creative process for developing ideas for creating and performing music.” Through active participation, the children develop collaborative skills, inspire creativity, build confidence, and foster community. All of the GMCC singers were so excited to participate in this creative choir experience that every singer contributed to the development of their original song. Robyn Thomson said, “ Of course I was surprised. I was finally writing a song!” Even the youngest singers said they had fun and that they thought it was a joyful experience.

What happens to these songs? They have been sent to an arranger

and will be set into choral octavos for the singers to learn parts. These songs will be part of the program at the GMCC Spring Concert on Sunday, March 5, 2024, at 3:00 PM at the Manassas Baptist Church, 8800 Sudley Road. Thanks to Kid Pan Alley, we cannot wait to see how much the GMCC singers bring to the stage when they are performing the world premiere of their own pieces of music!

A Night of Honor and Connection:

Supervisor Kenny Boddye Celebrates Community Service at Hectors of Lake Ridge

Dawne Horizons

Supervisor Kenny Boddye of the Occoquan Magistrate District recently hosted a heartfelt Mexican dinner at Hector’s of Lake Ridge, honoring the dedicated appointees serving various boards within Prince William County. As a newcomer to the Prince William Arts Council, my experience at this event was nothing short of inspiring and uplifting.

The evening was filled with a palpable sense of camaraderie as appointees from different boards gathered under one roof, united by a shared commitment to serving our community and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. It was an opportunity to forge new connections, exchange ideas, and celebrate the diversity of talents and passions that enrich our county.

The room buzzed with energy as conversations flowed effortlessly among attendees representing a wide array of interests and causes, from social justice and animal welfare to disability rights and environmental conservation. Each interaction offered a glimpse into the profound dedication and unwavering resolve of individuals working tirelessly to effect positive change in our community.

One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with fellow appointees. Over delicious fajitas, I had the pleasure of connecting with Emily from Supervisor Boddye’s staff, sharing insights about my involvement in the arts and learning more about her role in supporting the community. Additionally, meeting Dave, the appointee on the Board

of Equalization, was a truly enriching experience. His expertise in the wellness industry sparked a lively discussion about health and well-being, underscoring the depth of knowledge and expertise present among attendees.

Amidst the vibrant atmosphere, Hector’s of Lake Ridge provided a warm and inviting setting for the gathering. Nestled by a serene man-made lake, the restaurant offered a picturesque backdrop for heartfelt conversations and connections to flourish. From crafting our own fajitas to savoring sweet tea and guacamole, every moment was infused with a sense of community and camaraderie.

Supervisor Boddye’s address underscored his deep appreciation for the dedication and service of each appointee. His commitment to fostering positive change in Prince William County, particularly within the Occoquan district, was evident in his words of gratitude and encouragement. As a leader who leads with warmth and approachability, Supervisor Boddye exemplifies the spirit of inclusivity and collaboration that defines our community.

In conclusion, the dinner at Hector’s of Lake Ridge was more than a gathering; it was a celebration of service, connection, and the collective effort to build a brighter future for Prince William County. As I look forward to the next four years of serving alongside Supervisor Boddye and my fellow appointees, I am filled with renewed enthusiasm and dedication to making a meaningful difference in our community.

What to Paint?” (Artist self-portrait) acrylic by Kelly Haneklau

Edutainment Productions Inc. at Open Space Arts: A New Era Of Creativity And Community Opportunity

Photography: Randy Reese JR

Arevolutionary wave of creativity and community engagement is continuingly unfurling in the heart of Prince William County, through the efforts of Edutainment Productions Inc. at Open Space Arts (OSA). With a series of events that blend entertainment with education, OSA is cementing its reputation as a

beacon of culture and community. From the electrifying Anime Night to the thoughtful “Poetic Visions of a Nation” exhibit and the communal Grammy Watch Party, OSA is on a mission to transform its space into a hub of creativity and opportunity, culminating in the launch of the OSA Cabaret Room.

Anime Night: Where Cultures and Communities Collide

Anime Night at OSA emerged as a groundbreaking event, drawing in anime aficionados, music lovers, and gamers alike. The event featured live DJs pumping out anime-themed beats, a corner dedicated to Super Smash Bros battles, and decorations that brought beloved anime characters to life. This immersive experience not only celebrated anime culture but also fostered a sense of belonging among attendees. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with guests lauding the fun atmosphere and eagerly anticipating future anime nights. This event underscored OSA’s commitment to offering a welcoming, inclusive space for diverse interests and passions.

“Poetic Visions of a Nation”:

Celebrating African American Culture

February saw OSA host “Poetic Visions of a Nation,” an exhibit that paid tribute to the African American experience through a vibrant array of artworks. This exhibit drew inspiration from Langston Hughes’

“I, Too,” exploring the African American identity and the ongoing civil rights struggle. The opening reception was a festive affair, featuring live music and light refreshments, as attendees delved into the artworks that spanned paintings, sculptures, and photography. Notably, Lucas Dean’s photography connected visitors with the local essence of the African American community. The exhibit was not just an artistic showcase but a platform for dialogue on America’s past, present, and future.

Grammy Watch Party: A Prelude to the OSA Cabaret Room

The Grammy Watch Party at OSA marked a significant step towards realizing the dream of a New Yorkstyle Cabaret performance space. The event celebrated music’s biggest night with live broadcasts, creative activities, and communal joy. Donations collected during the evening contributed to the development of the cabaret space, envisaged as a unique venue for performing arts in Northern Virginia. This initiative reflects OSA’s dedication to enriching the community through the arts and creating opportunities for artists to shine.

“Emerging Expressions: Youth Unleashed” Art Show Celebrates Young Artists

On a balmy March evening, OSA hosted “Emerging Expressions: Youth Unleashed”, a captivating exhibition that showcased the raw talent and creative energy of young artists. The opening reception buzzed with excitement as budding artists mingled with their families and newfound fans, celebrating their first opportunity to exhibit their artwork in a gallery

setting. The atmosphere was electric as attendees admired the artworks, engaged with the artists, and shared their thoughts and interpretations. The young artists beamed with pride as they spoke about their creative processes and the stories behind their work. It was a heartwarming sight to see their passion and dedication to their craft.

The exhibition served as a reminder of the importance of nurturing and supporting young artists, providing them with opportunities to express themselves creatively and share their unique perspectives with the world. “Emerging Expressions: Youth Unleashed” was a celebration of the boundless talent and limitless possibilities that lie ahead for these young artists.

Looking Ahead: The OSA Cabaret Room and Beyond

The ongoing and diverse events at OSA are more than just community engagements; they are stepping stones towards the establishment of the OSA Cabaret Room. This space promises to usher in a new era of creativity and opportunity, offering a unique platform for performances that can captivate and inspire the community. The vision for the Cabaret Room is bold and transformative, aiming to provide an intimate setting where art and culture can flourish.

As Edutainment Productions Inc. and Open Space Arts continue to weave these innovative programs into the fabric of Prince William County, they are not just building a space; they are crafting a vibrant community where everyone is welcome to explore, create, and celebrate together. The journey towards the OSA Cabaret Room symbolizes a future brimming with potential—a future where creativity knows no bounds, and community ties grow ever stronger.