Mangano Announces 4th Annual 'Art Expressions For Kids' Exhibit

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced that the 4th Annual “Art Expressions for Kids” Exhibit will be on display now through June 30, 2011 at the Long Island Children’s Museum in Garden City. The young artists who are participating in the exhibit, which is sponsored by the Nassau County Department of Mental Health Chemical Dependency and Developmental Disabilities Services, are children and adolescents who receive treatment and services for emotional issues through various Nassau County agencies.

“This exhibition gives children who are filled with deep and sometimes complicated emotions, a creative outlet to share their feelings, interests and aspirations,” said County Executive Mangano. “This exhibition promotes self-esteem in the young artists and provides a public forum for family and loved ones to express pride in their accomplishments.”

When creating art, most artists often say, “This is me in my happy place.” However, that statement is made all the more powerful when uttered by 12-year-old participant Ashley, who is struggling with serious emotional challenges. Ashley is one of nearly 50 young artists, ages 6-17, whose work is displayed in the 4th Annual “Art Expressions for Kids” Exhibit.

The art has provided children with an outlet for deeply felt emotions ranging from the loss of beloved family members to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Themes such as friends and family, animals, the environment, favorite places and imaginary locales have been captured by the young artists using a variety of mediums.

A reception for the artists and their families will be held on Friday, June 24, 2011 from 2:00 -4:00 p.m. at the Long Island Children’s Museum. Dr. James Dolan, Jr., Director of Community Services for the Nassau County Department of Mental Health, Chemical Dependency and Developmental Disabilities Services, will be on hand at the Artists Reception to lend his support to this exciting project.

“It is vital that weencourage the development of our children’s creative and artistic talents. This project is an important part of the overall effort by the Department tohighlight the accomplishments of our children, and to extend our support to them and their families,” said Dr. Dolan.

Artists from East Meadow, Baldwin, East Rockaway, Elmont, Franklin Square, Farmingdale, Floral Park, Freeport, Glenwood Landing, Hempstead, West Hempstead Hicksville, Levittown, North Bellmore, Massapequa Park, Massapequa, Plainview, Rockville Centre, Island Park, Roosevelt, Roslyn, Seaford, Syosset, Port Washington, Valley Stream, Wantagh, Great Neck and Williston Park are featured in the exhibit.