The first of a series of exhibits showcasing Berks County students’ artwork will open Nov. 13 at Berks County Community Foundation headquarters, 237 Court St., Reading.
“Art and music programs continue to be threatened during school districts’ budget discussions, but those programs are vital to students’ social, emotional and educational development,” said Kevin K. Murphy, Foundation president. “Art and music programs influence academic achievement, civic engagement, critical thinking and other characteristics we value in our children.”
Artwork by students of all ages from Tulpehocken School District will be on display until Feb. 27. An opening reception to recognize students’ talents will be held Nov. 13 at the Foundation from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided.
The exhibit features more than 50 pieces of art, from pencil drawings to oil paintings. It also includes sculptures and other three-dimensional pieces.
“We will continue a quarterly rotation of art from public school districts until we have covered all 18 districts in Berks County, and then we will start it all over again,” said Frances A. Aitken, Foundation senior vice president for finance and operations.
As manager of the Foundation’s building operations, Aitken is coordinating installation of the exhibits.
“It’s pretty wild to look out from my office and see a portrait of The Mad Hatter staring back at me,” Aitken said. The pastel piece was created by Katie Becker, a Tulpehocken junior.
The free exhibit will be open to visitors Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Berks County Community Foundation is a nonprofit corporation that serves as a civic leader for our region by developing, managing and distributing charitable funds aimed at improving the quality of life in Berks County. More information is available at www.bccf.org.