Free, sculpture by Edward E. Parker

If you’re flipping through CAN Journal, you have a lot to be thankful for. If you were not directly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, you know someone who was. We’re nearly halfway through 2021, and a renewed sense of hope is gaining traction. Hopefully, the speedy development and administering of vaccines will slow down—and eventually eliminate—the transmission of the virus altogether. We would love to host a Collard Green Festival in 2022!

Extending our Black History celebration through April was a great idea. During the extension, an infinite depth of hidden talent, skill, and ingenuity was discovered and as a result, we were compelled to continue exploring lesser-known Black History facts. We will be dedicating on-site and online space to share what we found. This will include physical installations, posts to social media pages, and updates on our website: eepmoa.com.

With support from Cuyahoga Arts and Culture, we will be conducting a third installment of our Intergenerational Art program this summer. The program is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, June 22. Classes are scheduled to be held each Tuesday and Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00pm for six weeks, for a total of twelve classes. This program is free. All supplies will be provided. We can accommodate forty students. An exhibition will be held to display student work upon completion. An event flyer is currently circulating and is posted on clevelandartsevents.com.

Strengthening our Students, (S.O.S.), who we partner with regularly, will be conducting their annual Summer Camp from June 21 to July 30. They are also hosting an art competition for middle school and high school students, who will be asked to express artistically—draw, paint, video, rap, skit, dance, poetry—how COVID-19 has affected their lives. EEPMOA will represent one leg of the camp experience and will host the final exhibit for the art competition, which is supported by Cuyahoga Arts and Culture. Camp registration is necessary and seating is limited. For more information, call 216.965.7943.

Although our rotating Shinn House Gallery exhibitions have been postponed, Ed Parker is still reviewing prospective artwork for inclusion in future exhibits. Artists are encouraged to submit sample work and portfolios for consideration. We have been showcasing works via social media in the absence of these exhibits, and we are pleased with how well these posts have been received by friends and patrons.

Each Tuesday and Thursday evening, we offer free art classes for seniors from 6:00 to 8:00pm. Students are painting with acrylics and sculpting with clay. Note: Social distancing is practiced during all classes and face coverings are mandatory. Whether you are a beginner or have advanced skills, you are always welcome to join us. The museum is open Monday through Friday, from 10:00am to 3:00pm. Visitation outside of normal business hours will require an appointment with Edward Parker. Be kind, stay safe, and as always, “Think Art for Social Development!”