For Immediate Release
Every Victim Matters Multimedia Youth Art Show Makes Perspectives of Youth Matter
(Edmonton, AB – March 28, 2011): As part of National Victims of Crime Awareness Week April 10 - 16, 2011, the Edmonton Restorative Justice Network (ERJN) will showcase the artistic accomplishments of young people between the ages of 12 - 24 at the third annual Every Victim Matters Multimedia Youth Art Show.
The exhibition, on display April 11 and 12 at Latitude 53 Gallery, provides youth the exciting opportunity to artistically express thoughts and feelings on what it means to be a victim of crime, know a victim of crime, or suffer from bullying, racism, homophobia and other types of injustice. Participants will be eligible to win one of two $300 grand prizes (in the 12-16 year old & 17-24 year old categories).
This multimedia presentation includes art in various forms; from drawing, painting, and sculpture, to music, spoken word, rap and performance art, the scope of artistic expression reflects the importance of the issue.
“This year’s art show has really gained momentum,” says Erik Bisanz, chair of ERJN. “With more than 80 submissions, the 2011 Every Victim Matters Multimedia Youth Art Show promises to showcase a diverse collection of artwork and live performance, while providing youth a safe platform to create and share their thoughts on a significant issue.”
Supported by the EJRN, a network of organizations committed to the restorative justice approach in how our community deals with crime and conflict, the Every Victim Matters Multimedia Youth Art Show is an opportunity for youth to have their voices heard.
“ERJN is undertaking the youth multimedia art show because of a prevailing public view that sees youth primarily as offenders rather than victims,” says Bisanz. “We want to recognize youth as victims of crime and involve them in telling their own stories.”
The opening reception – featuring live performances by youth artists – will be held Monday, April 11 from 5-7:30pm at Latitude 53 Gallery (10248 106 Street, Second Floor). The opening reception is free and open to the public. Program to start at 6pm.
Submissions include artwork from a variety of local organizations: iHuman, Da Bomb Squad, Youth Emergency Shelter Society, Austin O’Brien High School, J Percy Page High School, Queen Elizabeth High School, Eastglen High School, St Francis Xavier High School, Ross Sheppard High School, Victoria School of the Arts, Vernon Barford Jr. High, LY Cairns School and Highlands Junior High School.
The perspectives of youth matter. The Every Victim Matters Multimedia Art Show runs April 11 and 12 at Latitude 53 Gallery (10248 106 Street, Second Floor). Free and open to the public.
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Media are invited and encouraged to attend the opening reception on Monday, April 11, 2011 from 5pm-7:30pm. Interview, photo and video opportunity. Please contact Megan Dart for advance interviews.
Media Contact: Megan Dart | Catch the Keys Productions | 780.994.7113 | mdart@catchthekeys.ca
Interview Contact: Erik Bisanz | Chair, EJRN | 780.901.8209 | yrap@ycdo.ca
