YouthQuest Teams Up with Lavarne Ross for 2nd Friday ArtWalk

For the second year in a row, YouthQuest teens are showcasing their artistic talents during the 2nd Friday ArtWalk in downtown Flint – this time with the help of an internationally renowned local artist.

Lavarne Ross – a Flint native whose work is on display throughout the city, country and beyond – has been working with high school and middle school students who attend YouthQuest at Northwestern High School, Southwestern Academy and International Academy of Flint.

“The students have been sketching out their ideas for how to tell their stories about growing up in Flint,” said Ann Moliassa, who coordinates YouthQuest’s art programming. “Mr. Ross has been encouraging the students to expand their techniques as they work on the pieces they are creating. It’s been a great experience for everyone.”

On May 12, the young artists will join Ross to display a variety of artwork in front of the Mott Foundation Building at 519 S. Saginaw St., Flint.

Additionally, the students will be leading several live performances throughout the evening. Visitors can catch the dance, vocal and spoken word performances at 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

“It will be dramatic, dynamic and fun for the audience,” said Moliassa, noting the students will have the opportunity to view other artists’ work on display during ArtWalk.

The event will be held from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. For more information, call (810) 600-1404.

YouthQuest is made possible through the generous support of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation and 21st Century Community Learning Centers.

This article was featured in the May 2017 issue of Afterschool Download. Also in this issue:

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