2018 Marti Mulford Youth Arts Exhibit reception

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County (BGCMC) and the Monterey County Free Libraries (MCFL) are pleased to announce the 2018 Marti Mulford Youth Arts Exhibit reception on Thursday, January 18, from 6-8 p.m. at the Seaside Branch Library at 550 Harcourt Avenue.

The exhibit, on display now through January 19 at the Seaside Library Branch of the MCFL, will feature more than 40 pieces of art created by members of the Clubs.

The artists’ ages range from 6-years-old to 18-years-old. Jurors will select pieces in different media for different age groups at the end of the evening. The selected pieces will move on to a Regional Fine Arts Exhibit with other Boys & Girls Clubs throughout Pacific Region. From that point, the pieces have a chance at being entered into the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Fine Arts Exhibit which tours the country at various Club conferences.

The evening event will begin with an exhibit reception and read-aloud at 6 p.m., followed by an awards ceremony at 7 p.m. Local Children’s book author and Librarian Carol D. Shields will read from her book Food Fight. A few copies of the book will be given away during the evening.  Attendees will also learn more about library services and have an opportunity to get a Monterey County Free Library card.

This event honors the memory of Seaside artist Marti Mulford, her passion for art, and her desire to nurture creativity in young people.  BGCMC has hosted the Annual Youth Arts Exhibit for more than 15 years. The 2018 Marti Mulford Youth Arts Exhibit is sponsored by Comerica Bank with support from the Arts Council for Monterey County.

Marissa Serna, BGCMC Arts Impact Specialist, said the arts are well known for igniting an interest in other academic fields, such as reading and literature. “BGCMC is happy to partner with the Monterey County Free Libraries to create an event that celebrates our kids’ artistic achievements while simultaneously showing them they have another community resource ready to support their educational interests.”

“We are really excited about our collaboration with BGCMC,” said Library Director Jayanti Addleman. “We are looking forward to celebrating the kids’ accomplishments and to also share with them our various free programs and resources.”

The public is invited to this free event to enjoy a night of amazing artwork and learn about the programs offered by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County, as well as the Monterey County Free Library system.  For reservations to this event, call (831) 394-5171 or email rlopez@bgcmc.org.

Photo/Pictured is an untitled acrylic painting by eight-year-old Lizette V., a BGCMC member and 2017 Junior Artist of the Year.