“This exhibit is a major platform for our children to tell their own stories, to embrace the fullness of a rich legacy, and to affirm their humanity,” states Janice Mirikitani, Founding President of GLIDE. ”Many of our young people have experienced the difficulties of being marginalized. Their expression through self-portraits is a means by which our children define themselves and celebrate who they are.”
In a time when many schools are losing creative arts programs to budget cuts, FYCC is proud to offer an outlet for creative expression to their kids, something that will help them as they grow into adults in today’s world. Candice Jacobs, FYCC Creative Arts Lead Teacher reflected, “I want the kids to understand the world differently, to experience their world more fully, to learn from the world from an artist’s perspective.”
Beautiful are the Souls of my People will open in GLIDE’s Creative Space on Thursday, June 2, 2011coinciding with the first day of FYCC’s Summer Programming. The public is invited to a free Opening Reception on Thursday, June 2, from 5:30pm – 7:30pm with special viewing for children from 3:30pm - 5:30pm. A second community reception will be held on Sunday, June 5th following the church’s Celebration services at 9am and 11am.