Arts for Border Children "My Heart Changes" Exhibition debuts at the Ventana Gallery, featuring abstract art inspired by the Study of Human Tissue

Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance collaborates with Roche Tissue Diagnostics, known locally Ventana Medical Systems, Inc. (Ventana) to present Arts for "Border" Children.

(TUCSON, Ariz.) - Children can encapsulate their imagination in a work of art; their movements, brushstrokes, shutter clicks and stories can create a realm independent of the adult world. These creative expressions can coax you into their world and alter your perceptions.
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On Thursday, January 19 from 5 to 7 p.m., Roche Tissue Diagnostics, known locally as Ventana Medical Systems, Inc., will host the opening reception for "My Heart Changes," a showcase of artwork from K-12 students in rural Arizona 2008-2011, created by the Southeastern Arizona Arts in Academics project (SAAA). 

The SAAA Project brought innovative, integrated arts programming to schools in rural Arizona, which had little or no such programming prior to their involvement. SAAA was funded by the U.S. Department of Education Professional Development for Arts Educators (PDAE) Programs project grant, administered by Fort Thomas Unified School District, and directed by Karen Husted of Arts for "Border" Children.
The recently expanded exhibit showcases a sampling of the artwork produced during the three-year project. The students used theater, visual art, music, dance, creative writing, media arts and photography to creatively express their ideas.

The exhibition also features original artworks in watercolor and acrylic created by students from Ash Creek K-8 Elementary School, inspired by the examination of human tissue stains - muscle, nerve, and bone marrow. These original art pieces were created as part of a teaching unit on interrelationships between systems of the human body and are a great tie-in to the work done at Roche Tissue Diagnostics, whose mission is to improve the lives of all patients afflicted with cancer. The company enables labs with automated diagnostic instruments and accompanying biopsy-based tests. The unit encompassed activities in science, visual art, math, language arts, health, and music.
Additional artworks showcased in the "Abstract Art Inspired by Study of Human Tissue" include:
▪ Student drawing and paper folding art inspired by studies in science.  (Project received a 1st place award at the Cochise County Fair) 

▪ Original paintings from artist Alex Jones, inspired by local nature and indigenous animals.

▪ Original artwork from artist Susan Corly, in the medium of textiles, beading and mixed media sculpture.

The Arts for Border Children, My Heart Changes exhibition was originally photographed by local artist Josh Schachter.

The Opening Night Reception will feature live performances including theatre, and poetry readings. In addition, exhibition coordinator and teacher Karen Hudsted will provide some background on Arts Integration programming in local schools.  
Reception attendees will have the opportunity to meet the professional teaching artists involved with the project, discuss their approach to bringing embedded arts integration to students of all ages, as well as experience featured theatre and music performances, and view a project film screening.
 
The artwork will be showcased and sold at the Ventana Gallery, and the public is welcome to browse or buy during the length of the exhibit, continuing through March 2017.
 
The Ventana Gallery is open to the public, by appointment, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on the first and third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. To schedule an appointment, visitors should call the SAACA at (520) 797-3959. Advance notice of 48 hours is required.
 
2017 "My Heart Changes" Arts for Border Children Opening Reception
When: Thursday, January 19 from 5 to 7 p.m.
Where: Roche Tissue Diagnostics (Ventana), 1910 E. Innovation Park Dr.
Cost: Free, with refreshments and live acoustic music
Online: www.saaca.org
Phone: (520) 797-3959
 
 
NOTE TO MEDIA: Photos available
 
 
About the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance
The Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) is a not-for-profit organization that exists to ensure that, through engagement in arts and culture, our communities produce strong, inspired citizens. SAACA enlists artists, businesses, governments, and individuals to expand artistic and cultural opportunities in their respective communities. To enhance access to the arts and to promote cultural awareness in the communities it serves, SAACA presents large-scale festivals, events and other programs. The Alliance also promotes educational opportunities in the arts and culture for all ages.