“The Art of Community” Exhibition Returns to Redford Township

DETROIT, April 25, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Development Centers has been actively involved with providing comprehensive behavioral health programming to the residents of northwest Detroit and neighboring communities for thirty years.

One of their most recent innovations has been the development of a series of artist led workshops that provide participants with hands-on experiences specially designed to bring out their inner creativity and artistic expression.

This inventive arrangement has not only proven to be highly successful, the subsequent exhibitions of the unique works being produced have become an inspirational must-see event.

Returning again to the Redford Township District Library, the 2nd Annual “Art of Community” will present a public showing of this year’s creations.

Erik Burris, a program intern at DCI and a Masters Degree Candidate from the University Of Michigan School Of Social Work, who served as co-chair for this initiative, stated “The children, adults, and families who participated in the workshops consistently expressed how this experience allowed them to tap into their creativity and talents.  They also acknowledge a sense of pride knowing that their artistic contributions can inspire the community to discover its hidden gifts.”

Fellow DCI Intern, U of M Masters candidate and co-chair Lindi Kanine also added “Many of the youth who participated in the workshops no longer had art programs in their schools. The creative process was so natural and enjoyable for everyone. It was a great outlet and incredible to see.”

Participants now look forward to displaying and celebrating their artistic achievements with the public at the Redford Township District Library on Wednesday, May 8th from 4:00 to 7:00pm. Food and entertainment will be provided as well as the chance to hear, first-hand, from all the participants what they enjoyed most about the experience.

WHAT:  “The Art of Community”

WHO:   A collaborative project between Master Degree candidates from the University Of Michigan School Of Social Work, (www.ssw.umich.edu) Development Centers, Inc, (www.develctrs.org) as well as several prominent local artists serving as workshop facilitators including: craft specialist Victoria Banks; muralist Chazz Miller; and former professor of fine art Lester Johnson.

WHY:  To explore the use of art and creativity as a means for workshop participants to express themselves, and by sharing their creations, to become more engaged with the surrounding community.

WHERE: Redford Township District Library
25320 West Six Mile Road
Redford, MI 48240
(313) 531-5960

WHEN: May 8th, 2013
Public Viewing: 4:00 – 7:00 pm.
Program Celebration: 5:00 – 6:00pm.

Refreshments, Music, Video
There is no charge.