5/7/2010 - First Friday Art Show Opening: "SIDE by SIDE"

The Staff & Volunteers of RVML Present:

First Friday Art Walk in Ashland's Railroad District

May Exhibit: "SIDE by SIDE"- Bringing the Outside In
A Showcase of Art from a Spectrum of Talents

Featuring Studio Sfumato Artists: Alex Iverson, Sara Johnson, Karl Elwood and Mieke Ryneal
Rogue Valley-Based Artists: Betsy Lewis, Lisa Byrne, Cathy Dorris, Ulla Mentzel, and Dan Mish
Exhibit Organizer: Tess Ryneal

Opens First Friday, May 7, 5:00-8:00 pm - Exhibit runs May 8-30, 10-6 Daily

Exhibit Description:

See what a world without boundaries looks like!

May, a month of new beginnings, of life springing into motion. This exhibit aims to bring the worlds of disabled and non-disabled artists together, remove labels, limitations and boundaries, and showcase only ABILITY.

Can you tell from their works which of these artists have achieved national acclaim? Who has won awards in recognition of artistic excellence? Or which of these artists struggle with disabilities? Does it matter?

Everyone viewing this "side by side" show is given the opportunity to weave in and out of both worlds, and hopefully conclude that they are really one.

Please come experience and celebrate the artists' ability, and meet all these exceptional people who have recognized that art is the common thread which binds them together.

Light Refreshments Served

About the Organizers:

Tess Ryneal was challenged to find a senior project at Ashland High School, and decided it was time to bring "the outside in". Passionate about advocating for the disabled and integrating them into our community, Tess chose to use art as her vehicle. As John F. Kennedy said, "Art is the great democrat, calling forth creative genius from every sector of society, disregarding race or religion or wealth or color." And, one might add, it disregards physical ability.

Living Opportunities, the sponsor of Studio Sfumato (sfoo-MA-toe), has been creating new life experiences for individuals with developmental disabilities since 1974. The ability to live in the same neighborhoods, work for the same employers, and to have the same opportunities that all people enjoy and aspire to in the community.

Studio Sfumato website: http://www.studiosfumato.org

Living Opportunities website: http://www.livingopps.org

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RVML COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER is a volunteer operated, donor-supported 501c3 non-profit organization in Ashland, Oregon providing easy access to a variety of unusual information that inspires, heals and transforms. Free Media Exchange: 1000's of books and videos on all subjects to purchase or exchange. 50-Seat Event Center: Attend weekly events or rent it for your own! Rogue Valley Metaphysical Library: Founded in 2001, RVML has grown to be among the largest of its kind in the world with over 15,000 books, videos and audio programs to borrow! Subjects include: cosmology, psychology, media literacy, sociology, science, mythology, society, spirituality, personal development and more! Thank you Volunteers and Donors!

RVML Community Resource Center- 258 A Street, Ashland, Oregon
Across from Ace Hardware, near Ashland Food Co-Op in the heart of the Railroad District
OPEN EVERY DAY 10am-6pm - (541) 552-9119