SPOTLIGHT ON:
Spark: An Expo of Youth Arts
WHAT IS IT?
Spark: An Expo of Youth Arts is the marquee event for New West Youth Week, featuring an art gallery, live entertainment, interactive booths and a concession.
WHEN AND WHERE?
It’s set for Friday, May 6 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Queensborough Community Centre.
WHO CAN GET INVOLVED?
Any youth who likes to create. Organizers are looking for contributions from young artists.
“We are accepting works that youth are proud of and we want to provide a no-pressure environment,” writes Jerome Oregas, recreation leader attendant at Queensborough Community Centre, in an email. “We just want to celebrate youth for being inspired/confident in being creative!”
Organizers are accepting submissions in all art forms – dance, spoken word, literature, drawings, etc.
Organizers have already contacted a number of art-related clubs at New Westminster Secondary School and have interest from groups including the After School Film Club and a group called SewMate, which makes handcrafted items to fundraise for B.C. Children’s Hospital.
Organizers have also called for artists at Queensborough Middle School.
WHY QUEENSBOROUGH?
“The Queensborough community (especially the youth) don’t get to experience events like these in their own backyard,” Oregas says. “The bridge and distance can sometimes be a barrier. I would love to see this become an annual event and grow to draw visitors from all over.”
WHAT’S SO IMPORTANT ABOUT THE ARTS FOR YOUth?
“I loved being involved in the arts when I was younger, and I support the importance of how being creative can realize the potential within individuals,” Oregas says.
Organizers hope spark will “instill confidence within youth and empower the courage to create positive change.”
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
To get involved, contact Jerome Oregas, 604-525-7036 or email [email protected].
