Information: www.lionheartpac.com, 678-365-6561
Creative kids in Gwinnett County have a new outlet for showcasing their work. The recently-unveiled Cotton Seed Gallery in Norcross features a space specifically designed to spotlight the creations of local artists younger than 18.
The idea of a children’s gallery had its roots in a bigger community effort to make arts accessible to the community. That started eight years ago when the Lionheart Performing Arts Centre moved into Norcross’s downtown district.
“We’ve been renting an old church from the city, but in the last couple of years, we’ve grown like crazy,” said Lionheart’s Tanya Caldwell. “We have people who want more classes in photography and art, and we always need extra rehearsal space.”
So when the city purchased the historic Summerour Cotton Gin at 125 Lawrenceville St., Caldwell saw an opportunity to expand.
“As soon as they showed it to us, we loved it,” said Caldwell. “It has so much potential for us to grow into. There’s even a barn-like structure that would make a great children’s theater. My dream now is to take over the whole property in 10 years.”
The first floor is already a gallery that hosts exhibitions of local artists. But Caldwell wanted to do something specifically for the school-age set, and it needed an appropriate name.
“We wanted to call it something unique - not just ‘the kid’s museum’,” said Caldwell. “Since we’re in an old cotton gin, and we’re nurturing our children to be creative, the name ‘Cotton Seed’ just popped out.”
Caldwell worked with teachers at Summerour Middle in Norcross to assemble an opening exhibit that features works by the school’s art club. One of the most eye-catching is a 5-foot sculpture made from recycled water bottles that incorporates themes of environment and sustainability. Art teacher Linn Zamora said the work is just one her students have completed that does double duty in raising awareness about serious issues, but having a place to exhibit it is also important.
“Having their work shown in public is an exciting opportunity,” she said. “It’s an experience that will get the kids engaged in their community. I think people will be amazed at what they see, too. I’m very proud and sometimes a little awed by what my students create!”
With the first exhibit in place, Caldwell now plans to reach out to schools around the county to invite their student-artists into the space.
“The teachers we’ve talked to are very excited to have another venue outside the hallway of their schools to show student work,” said Caldwell.
During the summer, the space will also be busy with kids’ art camps, and the first one kicks off on Monday. There’s also a lineup of acting classes starting June 24.
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