WASHINGTON, D.C. The P.A.I.N.T.S. Institute, a newly-founded, D.C. based arts education nonprofit, will host its first annual Youth Art Showcase featuring original, local art created by the 2016 Art Leadership Program interns. The Showcase will be held at The Howard Theatre on Saturday, July 30 from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

The Art Leadership Program is a holistic summer internship that focuses on art education in the context of the whole person by combing both academic and technical instruction in various artistic mediums with experiential learning opportunities, including community service opportunities and an introduction to fundamental business skills, and competencies as well as lesson related to financial literacy, health and wellness. The 2016 intern class boasts 19 of the most creative D.C. youth between the ages of 14 and 24.

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“We’re grateful to have strong partners within the DC Government,” said John J. I. Chisholm, the P.A.I.N.T.S. Institute’s founder and executive director, speaking about such instrumental partners as the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), the Department of Employment Services (DOES) and Child & Family Services Agency (CFSA). “But we’re proudest of the youth who participated in this year’s Program. The Program allowed them to hone their artistic skills, while they grew and developed as individuals.”

The Showcase will feature (paintings, sculptures and drawings) created by individual interns, as well as a collaborative mural that gives an authentic look into the District. Following the Showcase, the mural will be on display for the general public in Gallery 42 at the University of the District of Columbia Van Ness Campus.

“D.C. represents more than where we are: it’s what we are,” said artist Matthew McLean. “We all grew up here, our families and friends are all here, and we wanted to share our perspectives on this City in a way that a tourist couldn’t see or experience otherwise.”  

“I’m excited that the public will get to see, firsthand, some amazing D.C.-theme artwork,” Chisholm said. “And I’m excited to celebrate these young artists and aspiring adults who are all truly amazing!”

To support ongoing programming, the P.A.I.N.T.S. Institute suggests a $25 donation in exchange for General Admission tickets, and $40 for VIP tickets to the Showcase. Corporate Sponsorship packages are also available. To make donations and reserve tickets, visit here. The Howard Theatre is located at 620 T St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001, and is Metro-accessible by the Orange, Bliue and Yellow lines. For event information and questions, contact Ms. Breanna Robinson at B.Robinson@Paintinstitute.org, or by telephone at (202) 594-8128. Please, join us in celebrating and supporting some of the District’s young, aspiring artists!

This post originally appeared at UDC.edu.