Last Friday I attended the opening of two new exhibitions at Akron Soul Train.
In Nyki Fetterman’s “MYSTICISM | BETWEEN,” the Kent-based mixed media artist uses poetry, fiber art and animation to create an ode to life’s small, but cherished, moments.
In “Universal Child,” Cleveland artist Gina Washington uses words and images — including old photos of her family — to create vibrant collages that illustrate personal and shared experiences. Both exhibits are on view until Saturday, Feb. 10.
Earlier this week I stopped by Summit Artspace for a sneak peek at the winter exhibitions. Beginning tomorrow, guests can view five exhibits featuring work from local artists at various stages in their craft, from students (“Taking Care of Our House: Communities Coming Together and Making a Difference”) to a recent college grad (“Bad Nostalgia” by Katherine Strobel) to a budding professional (David Kruk’s “Nobody Here”). Summit Artspace’s winter exhibitions are on view through Saturday, March 16.
Akron might not be as large as its neighbors to the north and south, but when it comes to art, the city holds its own. The breadth of Akron’s art community was apparent to me from day one, as was the enthusiasm of its people — both artists and art lovers.
From an empty downtown storefront that got new life as an art installation to an East Akron mural of the late Art Minson to local institutions such as Akron Soul Train and Summit Artspace, you don’t have to go far to find art in Akron.
Three things to do in Akron this weekend
“Hoo goes there?” Find out Friday at Summit Metro Parks’ Owls & Howls. Join naturalist Lara Roketenetz at Bath Nature Preserve at 7 p.m. for a short presentation followed by a quiet night hike to search for owls. Attendees may bring a small flashlight. Enter the park off Ira Road and follow the parkway to the field station.
The Akron Symphony will perform works from Arvo Pärt Fratres, Mozart and Mary Lou Williams at its Saturday evening concert at E.J. Thomas Hall. The symphony will also perform a piece by Jake Gunnar Walsh and Jon Sonnenberg in collaboration with EarthQuaker Devices, a local manufacturer of effect pedals. Tickets start at $20 for adults (18 and under are $15.)
The Akron Civic Theatre will host a screening of “26.2 to Life: Inside The San Quentin Prison Marathon” Sunday at 3 p.m. The documentary follows the members of the 1000 Mile Club, the California prison’s long-distance running group. After the screening, stick around for a Q&A with Markelle Taylor, who was formerly incarcerated at San Quentin and who now mentors members of the 1000 Mile Club. Tickets are $15.
