Gallery accepting submissions for HEAL exhibit

Graffiti Gallery in Oil City is accepting submissions for the exhibit HEAL.  The juried show is open to all artists. The drop-off for artwork is between noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 4, at 206 Seneca St.  This new exhibit is curated by local artist and social issues advocate Kiyomi Knox. The exhibition will run from Friday, Sept. 9, to Friday, Oct. 7, and is open to the public from noon to 6 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.  The HEAL show is about the journey and overcoming of life’s struggles in different ways, according to Knox.  The goal of the exhibit is to share these experiences and advance the healing process and raise awareness of the topics presented by the entries.  Artists are strongly encouraged to present their own thoughts of the word HEAL, Knox said.  The topics of the art piece can be very personal or about public awareness, according to Knox.  The gallery is seeking works that highlights the artists’ interpretation of what they consider to be concerns.  It can be anything from grief, separation, illness, violence, loss— to spiritual, social, environmental, issues. For example, works can present experiencing trauma, or present their thoughts about damage to natural resources. Or, artists may choose to share a sense of spiritual awakening, or celebrate the end of an intimate struggle.  Topics are not limited to the ones listed above and can be light-hearted or serious. The gallery can accommodate most traditional mediums but artists must contact ahead of the drop-off date for large installations, electric, kinetic, heavy or unusual pieces.  Graffiti Gallery is a non-profit exhibition space under the Oil City Arts Council. Now in its sixth year, the gallery presents seven shows annually and
advocates cultural development through diverse themes, local history, and newer artistic genres. It has presented both regionally awarded professionals and emerging local artists.  The space is rentable and open for community events. The gallery is seeking interns and volunteers. The hanging fee is $15 for up to three pieces payable by check. For additional information, people may visit www.graffitigalleryoc.org or call 676-5303.