On Wednesday, May 19 DC SCORES - a non-profit in innovative and creative after-school programming - held its first Inspired Art Gala at the Corcoran Gallery of Art. The evening featured a flautist, a silent auction showcasing artworks by 60 local DC area artists (Norman Greene, Kirstin Bruner, Genia Blackwell, Christopher Dohna, to name a few) and young DC Schools poets. The artists were tasked to create a piece of artwork, based on poems, composed by the talents of DC SCORES youth.
The event welcomed over 200 guests at the gala in support of DC SCORES' unique fundraiser through artistic expression and poetry for students across the District. The majority of the artwork was sold, generating $8,390 in silent auction sales and $15,550 in paddle raise; $14,500 in ticket sales and donations.
After the live auction guests were invited for performances and poetry recitals by students themselves.
I spoke to a young but extremely talented poet - Daniela S. a 10 year old student from H.D. Cooke Elementary School, who is being trained by her creative writing coach Ms. Jones:
Daniela, your poetry is powerful and meaningful. What do you think about when you compose?
- Anger. I am a peaceful person and I do not want to scream and shout. Through words, I can express how i feel on paper and not be violent.
You are only 10. How many poems have you written so far?
- It is hard to say, may be about 30! It takes me about an hour to compose one.
Will you continue writing?
- Yes, perhaps in 15 years I will be a published writer!
Genia Blackwell, DC SCORES creative writing coach for Middle Schoolers (5-8 year olds) and contributing artist, was thrilled to see some of her students at the event. She mentioned that, at times, it is not easy to be enthusiastic when coaching students how to work creatively. But, at the same time, she re-charges her own enthusiasm from kids!
Amy Nakamoto, DC SCORES Executive Director stated that they definitely plan to build upon the successful elements of this year’s event for next year! Each year, DC Scores hosts three major fund raising events to appeal to different audiences - a Soccer Ball in November; Inspired Art in May; and the SCORE
S Cup (co-ed charity adult soccer tournament) in June/July.
With an additional $25,000 in sponsorships the evening concluded with honoring the guests and encouragements to students, who showed no hesitation in giving out autographs.
Support DC SCORES and creative after-school programing by visiting http://dcscoresevents.weebly.com/donate.html
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