Geranium is thrilled to continue their long-term support of the Town of Aurora’s Mayor’s Celebration of Youth Arts (MCOYA). This will be our sixth year sponsoring this wonderful program, created by the Aurora Cultural Centre (ACC) in partnership with the town. The exhibition is now in its twelfth year and provides an important showcase for new and emerging young artists.
MCOYA is just one example of Geranium’s commitment to supporting important community and cultural initiatives in the communities where they build.
From High School To Infinity
MCOYA23 is open to Grade 12 and graduating art students across the Aurora area with a particular focus on those who intend to continue their artistic pursuits. The MCOYA program provides a unique opportunity for these young artists to come together with other like-minded, creative students to display their art in a professional exhibition installed in the gallery space at Aurora Town Hall.
Beyond just showing their work, the students gain valuable skills and experience as they collaborate with ACC Gallery staff to design, curate and install the exhibition, including creating accompanying virtual content.
The Opening Gala with Mayor Tom Mrakas and members of Geranium and the Aurora Cultural Centre
Opening Night Gala
We were also honoured to be part of a special Opening Gala Reception on Wednesday, February 15. A well-attended event and the ideal kick-off to this exhibit.
New Speaker Series Adds New Depth
This year the MCOYA program has added a whole new level of engagement by creating an inspirational Speaker Series which will feature successful professional artists sharing their stories.
On March 1st Emily DiCarlo will talk about life after high school and some of the opportunities that may be available to assist aspiring artists, including residencies, publications and more. Emily will also share insights on some of her own projects and experiences to help others in finding their own career paths.
On March 9th Brandon Vickerd will reflect on some of the milestones and challenges that arose in his first 10 years after high school and describe his own journey to becoming a professor and internationally exhibited sculptor.
In Person Or Virtual – The Choice Is Yours
The MCOYA23 exhibition will be open for in-person viewing from Saturday, February 11th until Saturday, March 18th; the show is open to the public Monday – Saturday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.
The virtual exhibition will be available to view on-line from Saturday, February 11th until Saturday, April 1st at auroraculturalcentre.ca/mcoya2023
Visit the Aurora Cultural Centre website for full details and don’t miss this exciting opportunity to see some dazzling new art and support the next generation of Canadian artists.
