Cathartic Art After Dark looks to warm up creativity in the winter months
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PARKERSBURG -- Artsbridge offers "Art After Dark" to help participants learn how to get through the dark days of winter by using art
Art After Dark will be 6-10 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 21, at the Artsbridge office at 925 Market St. in downtown Parkersburg. For more information, call (304) 428-3988.
The event was organized this year by Artsbridge Executive Director Lyndsay Dennis, along with Parkersburg Councilwoman Wendy Tuck, who brought the idea of this event to life originally
This is the fifth year for Art After Dark at Artsbridge.
"I got the idea for this exhibit following a discussion with the men at Recovery Point who spoke about how art has helped change their lives and strengthen them in difficult times," said Tuck
Tuck said the event, which offers many activities, is aimed at being a fun expressive evening that also focuses on the solstice and ways to cope with the dark.
The purpose of this event is to bring people together to facilitate the conversation of healing through the depression and anxiety that can be felt this time of year and to show how art can help with coping as well as expressing one's feelings. Art is proven to be therapeutic and calming to the mind and soul.
Artsbridge will have a variety of experiences available for everyone to enjoy. Snacks and refreshments will be provided thanks to the organization of Marcia Westbrook.
There will be live music throughout the evening. Scott Cain is coming back this year to play his dulcimers from 6-7 p.m. Open Mic hour for poetry and spoken word will be 7-8 p.m. Moon King will be performing at Art After Dark from 8-10 p.m.
"Artsbridge and the Parkersburg Art Center have been a big part in helping find my purpose in music. They embraced me like family, cheered me on, and hosted my early events. It's very important to me that all kids have equal opportunities in the arts," said Moon King, who is offering a fun addition to his set.
Those bringing a donation of art or music supplies will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a signed guitar. The supplies donated will be used for Artsbridge programs that serve the community and youth in the Mid-Ohio Valley.
Those who can't attend the event but would still like to donate art or music supplies, contact Artsbridge for information.
There will be several artists set up selling their works and sharing how their art helps them deal with anxiety. Austin McConnell, LMT, will be providing hand and shoulder massages. There will also be a "Creative Corner" where Michelle Waters will be leading a "pointillism snowflake" art project as well as offering mini-yoga sessions throughout the evening. Also on display in the Artsbridge gallery will be the "Art with Angels" exhibit, featuring art by local women in recovery through Angels Harbour. This exhibit will remain on display through the new year.
Artsbridge is open to the public Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. They will be closed the week between Christmas and NewYears.