Edward Parker Museum of Art: Art for Social Development

 

Edward Parker Museum of Art founder Ed Parker with Liz Maugans at Yards Project Space

All is well at the Edward Parker Museum of Art. As a difficult year comes to an end, we are focused on what we have to be thankful for. We have experienced a slow but steady increase in visitation, and our class and program participation has grown. Our team is healthy, optimistic and looking forward to next year, with plans to bring back the annual Collard Green Festival and Alternative Health Fair.

It’s been nice to witness, and be a part of, the return to normal in the arts community. Edward Parker is in the studio sculpting, and recently had his art featured in a few exhibitions including Still We Rise, which explored the forgotten histories of six East Side communities, and Uplifters: New Beginnings from Old Things. Ed is also being interviewed regularly—as he recounts the details of his over six-decades-long career and contribution to the arts, he is providing a glimpse into his process and sharing the wealth of his experience.

We just wrapped up our third Intergenerational Art class with an exhibition in the museum’s event center. As expected, attendance and participation in 2021 surpassed our 2020 numbers, as people have become more comfortable returning to public spaces and events. We continue to maintain a safe social distance and encourage the wearing of masks during class because the practice has proved successful in minimizing health risks.

Board member and artist Rodney Carpenter has teamed up with Ed Parker to host “mini” art festivals once a month. The festivals will continue through October, if weather permits. Public admission is free, and vendors can secure a spot for free as long as they bring their own display tables and seating. For vendors without their own set-up, a table and two chairs will be provided for a fee of $25. For those interested in securing a spot, or who have questions, send an email to c1artstudio@yahoo.com with the word “festival” in the subject line.

Edward Parker curates three galleries at Shinn House, located in Mount Zion Congregational Church. Although the shows were previously suspended, he is preparing to resume these exhibits and is seeking artists to show their work. Interested artists should submit sample work for consideration. Since the exhibits were postponed, we have used our Facebook and Instagram pages to showcase a variety of artwork.

Every Tuesday and Thursday evening, we host free art classes for seniors from 6:00 to 8:00pm. Our students are currently drawing, painting with India ink, and sculpting with clay. Although we realize many people have been vaccinated, we are still practicing social distancing during class for the safety of all participants. Whether you are a beginner or have advanced skills, you are welcome to join us.

The museum is open Monday through Friday, from 10:00am to 3:00pm; however, visits may be scheduled outside of normal business hours by appointment. Be kind, enjoy life, stay safe and remember to “Think Art for social development!”

 

EDWARD E. PARKER CREATIVE ARTS COMPLEX/
SNICKERFRITZ CULTURAL WORKSHOP FOR THE ARTS
13240 Euclid Avenue
East Cleveland, Ohio 44112
eepmoa.com
216.851.6910