Valley Art Center is dedicated to bringing joy to our community through art. In line with this mission, we are excited to announce a new public art project in celebration of both World Art Day and Earth Day. VAC is partnering with artist Ron Shelton, who creates environmental displays from ordinary objects that are often made of unstainable materials. He not only transforms these environmental hazards, like plastics, into beautiful works of art, but also raises awareness of the environmental impacts of his chosen medium. “Since I began this plastic study, my artistic practice will no longer be a tool for merely an aesthetic pursuit. Art has the power to change the world and change minds,” says the artist.

Shelton will create a stunning wasp nest pattern installation, made entirely from recycled plastics, in Chagrin Falls’ Riverside Park. It will be installed for World Art Day (April 15) and deinstalled a week later on Earth Day (April 22). The piece itself will then be recycled and will reappear on the exterior of the Valley Art Center’s building for an exhibition focused on reused materials, Contemporary Debris, premiering in September.

This project will showcase the beauty of public art and the power of sustainability while providing an opportunity for the community to get involved. On March 18, VAC will be hosting an all-ages community workshop where all are invited to lend a hand and help bring this project to life. The artist and VAC hope this project will inspire creativity and encourage conversation about the impact of our actions on the environment. Be sure to mark your calendars and join VAC in making a difference through art.

Valley Art Center is also thrilled to announce the second edition of our Emerging Young Artists Exhibition. This exhibition provides a platform for young Northeast Ohio artists, ages 16 to 22, to showcase their work and learn, grow, and network with others in their community.

Says Assistant Director and Gallery Manager Julie Polsinelli, “VAC is excited to see the creativity and passion that the young artists of Northeast Ohio will bring to this exhibition. By supporting the next generation of artists, we hope to help foster the development of the arts.” Join us in supporting and attending this exhibition featuring the exceptional works of young emerging talent.

VALLEY ART CENTER
155 Bell StreetChagrin Falls, Ohio 44022valleyartcenter.org440.247.7507

EVENTS:

Ron Shelton Community Workshop, 2-6pm Saturday, March 18

2nd Annual Emerging Young Artists Exhibition, March 31–May 10. Opening 6-8pm Friday, March 31

World Art Day Installation, Saturday, April 15