A new artistic initiative that’s designed to put a smile to the faces of Port Moody residents and visitors is now in full swing.
And the Port Moody high school student organizing the project wants the community to help to pay it forward with designs of their own.
Arkie Liu, a Grade 11 IB student at Port Moody secondary, launched her Art Abandonment Project last month to coincide with Youth Week, May 1 to 7.
It mirrors Papergirl Vancouver, a non-project group that asks members of the public — of any age and ability — to donate their art, which will in turn be donated to anyone who happens to pick it up: at a park, plaza, arts hub, recreation complex or another civic centre, for example.
Liu said she plans to collect as many decorative cards as possible to distribute them at the end of the summer. She is requesting participants draw a happy image and place a heartfelt message inside.
As well, participants are asked to include the social media handle @pomoarts and #abandonart, and drop off the finished products to the Port Moody Arts Centre (2425 St. John’s St.).
This week, Liu is expected to present the concept to teachers at Port Moody secondary as part of her CAS (Creativity Action Service) program for her International Baccalaureate studies. She already has a few colourful cards in hand thanks to PMAC volunteers and supporters Faye Headridge and TJ Boucher.
Headridge, a Terry Fox graduate who is with Community Ventures Connections (CVS), volunteers weekly at the Moody Centre arts hub with co-ordinator Sandra Niven while Boucher, also with CVS, has charted a two-year action plan to complete 24 projects, which include PMAC art lessons.
A CVS spokesperson said its partnership with PMAC has proved successful, with several people with developmental disabilities joining in classes and socializing.
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VOLUNTEER NETWORK
Volunteer co-ordinators who want to connect with others to learn about what Tri-City programs and services are available — as well as to offer or receive support — can email Sandra Niven at [email protected]. The network is organized by Community Ventures Connections.
