In a field-work expedition designed to honor Western New York's unique Underground Railroad heritage, about 120 seventh and eighth grade scholars from Buffalo Public Schools' My Brother's Keeper (MBK) program, joined by a small group of local educators and artists, will create an original and symbolic art installation while visiting the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center.
From approximately 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, students will experience the new Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center, then use the information and inspiration from their studies of, and fieldwork relating to, the Underground Railroad to shape their art.
The installation will then be presented to the public as part of the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center's interactive artwork exhibit "IMMERSE." The opening reception for "Immerse" takes place from 5-8 p.m. Saturday in the Townsend Gallery at the NACC, 1201 Pine Ave., Niagara Falls. The exhibit will be on display until Sept. 30.
"We are excited to partner with these organizations to create this opportunity. This expedition and art installation reinforce the value of gaining deeper knowledge regarding WNY's Underground Railroad heritage while adding another layer of creative experiences to the portfolios of the young men in My Brother's Keeper. It also provides a personalized gift of honor that reflects MBK's goal of community service and outreach," said program leader Jason Hall.
