Make Art a Part
of Your Life

April 2013

     I'm very proud of the arts programming offered in our teaching studios and public galleries. Most recently, I’ve been impressed with the youth programming we’re doing out in the community. Of particular note is our first annual Evanston Youth Film Festival. The young stars and their large crowd of ‘groupies’ attended the March 17^th red-carpet screening. Thirty outstanding films in various genres, including animation, comedy, drama, horror, music and public service announcements, were shown in the beautifully appointed Rotary International auditorium. Cash awards were presented and publicity photos snapped. The creative ideas and skillful use of technology by these young cineastes was notable. We'll post a YouTube link to the films soon.

     This wonderful film program will be followed by another engaging happening – a celebration of ‘Street Arts.’ On May 3, 4 and 5 we’ll present various programs highlighting the artistic cultural efforts of those working in the realm of street art, hip-hop, and arts education. We aim to grow visibility and heighten understanding of these practices for audiences who may not have direct contact with them. We’ll screen the film “Louder than a Bomb,” devote an afternoon to Hip-Hop education, present a demonstration from well-known Graffiti Writers, and host an Educators Panel Discussion. These programs are free and open to the public.

     Our community programs are made possible through the dedication of our amazing staff, the support of our board members, and the involvement of our many attendees. Thank you all for making our arts outreach a reality.

 --Norah Diedrich, Executive Director