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WILKES-BARRE – Color, creativity and culture came to North Main Street on Sunday at 5-7-0 Tattooing Co.’s inaugural kids art show, an exhibit featuring the artwork of youngsters between 5 and 13.
The event, entitled “The Time to Shine Kids Art Show,” was a collaborative project by Art of Pa and the business.
Geena Russo, owner of 5-7-0, said the company, located downtown for 15 years, had moved “next door” two years ago, for the specific purpose of showing off the artwork of area residents.
Usually, the business brings in artwork crafted by adults, with a kickoff event offering sophisticated appetizers and wine.
Sunday, however, meant juice boxes and sandwiches as attendees made their way through the artwork display that was filled with color and texture.
Aviaunna Espaillat, 6, was eager to show off her dragonfly, which she did in a variety of colors.
“I saw a picture of a dragonfly,” she said. “And I just did with a lot of colors and some glitter.”
Russo’s friend, Shannon McCann, said the show was a great opportunity to “let kids create.”
The concept of inviting young artists to display their work at the business was that of Mike Reznick, the business’ curator.
“Its nice when you can help kids to be noticed,” he said.
All youngsters who offered their pieces for display were accepted, he said.
“There were 35 young artists,” Reznick said. “We might have stopped at 20, but we didn’t want to exclude anyone.”
Brille Russo, 11, whose colorful painting of a rainbow was on display at the event, said she not only enjoyed having people view her artwork, but that she enjoyed getting a chance to see other the artwork of other children.
“One of my favorites had a lot of flowers in it,” she said.
The young participants could choose whether or not to put a price on their artwork, with most of those up for sale being sold during the event.
“If they do sell it, we don’t take a commission,” said Russo.
The artwork will be on exhibit at the business throughout the month.
“Over a hundred people came through today,” said Russo. “It was all that we expected.”
