What happens when you mix two people who are good with kids and like to fix bicycles?  An environmentally focused art program that engages kids in the creation of bicycle sculptures! The results of which will be on display at the Grant Street Gallery on Friday September 3rd from 6:00-9:00pm, located at 220 Grant Street (at Lafayette Avenue).

This project was conceived at the Gloria J Parks Community Center by Arts Coordinator, Alissa Corby and Program Director, David Harter, both Green Options Buffalo volunteers.  

The students, who ranged in age from six to ten years old, worked to deconstruct the bicycles and recreate them into works of art with guidance on the proper use of tools in a hands on, collaborative setting. All bicycles, bicycle parts and appropriate bicycle tools were supplied through Green Options Buffalo's community bicycle workshop, which offers classes that are available to all members of the community to learn how to recycle, repair, and maintain bicycles.

Throughout the project, students worked in teams and individually, helping each other in supportive and noncompetitive ways. Alissa Corby stated that "While building their sculptures, students had total freedom in the design and construction of their projects. Each created a concept on paper and then worked slowly through the challenges posed by bonding pieces together, distributing weight and accomplishing their visual goals."

Through this project there was a specific focus on engaging students in environmental issues providing them with a sense of stewardship of their world. Program Director, David Harter explained, "We tried to expose the students to a lot this summer. It was important for us to have kids walk away with both a greater sense of curiosity about the world and a greater understanding of their capacity to alter it."

Through the generosity of Prish Moran to donate the space at the Grant Street gallery, these youth will have their work on display for the public to view. As Dave Harter went on to say, "for these youth to be able to see their recycled art on display at The Grant Street Gallery, made with their own hands, tells them that their efforts are respected and worthwhile. Lessons that, we can only hope, they will carry with them forever."

Come support the artists of Buffalo, present and future!