ACW 2024

ACW MEMBER JOSH Polster, four ceramic fountains

By JOY SCHILLING

WAKEFIELD — Consisting of five components, this collaborative event spans a month. It includes an Art Exhibit centered around the Elements theme, a joint exhibit showcasing paired creations by local writers and artists, the 5×7 Small Works Fundraiser where all earnings benefit PAWS of Wakefield, a Pop Up Shop where artists sell their pieces and a display of artwork by WHS Visual Arts students.

Every artist is free to interpret the theme “Elements” in a distinctive manner, enabling them to convey their personal viewpoints, emotions and experiences through visual art. Historically, it was thought that everything consisted of four elements: earth, water, air and fire. The showcase includes a diverse range of artistic forms such as paintings, batik, ceramics, photography, fibers and stained glass. 

A collaborative exhibit by ACW and Room to Write merges writing and art. The concept involves authors submitting pieces on the Elements theme which artists then use as inspiration for their artwork. This process is a playful variation of the previous partnership in April 2024 where writers’ works preceded the creation of art pieces. The exhibit features ten showcased collaborations.

Artists participating in the 5×7 Small Works Fundraiser are expected to create and donate artworks that will be sold for $10 each with all proceeds benefiting PAWS of Wakefield. This presents a wonderful opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind art pieces while contributing to a worthy cause. Any contributions from individuals interested in participating are welcome with the requirement that the donated pieces be small in size measuring 5 x 7 inches.

ACW artists Marcy Sumner and Tanya Green will be the vendors at the Pop Up Shop on opening night showcasing a diverse range of fiber art and photography available for viewing and purchase. The Pop Up Show highlights artists who display and sell their creations for a single evening. Each of the nine showings in October will feature different artists.

The debut exhibition of the new school year for WHS Visual Arts showcases a wonderful array of pieces reflecting the art department’s ongoing partnership with the ACW at the Albion Cultural Exchange. Visitors are impressed by the quality of teaching, resources and supplies available at WMHSArt. Witnessing the talent and innovation of these young artists is truly captivating.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness this showcase of talent at the Albion Cultural Exchange located at 9 Albion St., Wakefield. The event will take place on Fridays, October 4, 11, 18 and 25 from 5 to 8 p.m. as well as on Saturdays, October 5, 12, 19 and 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Additionally, we will be open on Thursday, October 24 from 5 to 8 p.m. coinciding with the WHS Visual Arts Pumpkins on the Plaza event. This art exhibition is made possible thanks to the generous support of The Savings Bank.