LANCASTER – “Coming Out: 15 Artists/15 Years of Common Roads,” a traveling exhibit of works by regional artists and youth, opens Oct. 6 at the Lancaster Campus of HACC, Central Pennsylvania’s Community College.
The free, public exhibit is described as a visual journey and narrative guide as seen through the eyes of local gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender regional artists and area youth.
The exhibit, which is being hosted by the Lancaster Campus, is sponsored in part by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, Red Tettemer ad agency, Institute for Cultural Partnerships and Jump Street.
The public is invited to a reception and panel discussion by the artists regarding their works from 4-6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, in Room 203 of the East Building on the campus, 1641 Old Philadelphia Pike. The exhibit will be on display from noon-3 p.m. Monday-Friday and 5-7 p.m. Thursdays through Oct. 31, pending special events.
Common Roads was established 15 years ago to support and enhance the well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth (ages 14-22) in Central Pennsylvania. The organization fights discrimination and harassment through training and education and outreach to the community at large.
“Coming Out” is curated by Don Blyler III, vice president of the Common Roads board and a board member of the Lancaster Museum of Art. Local visual arts artists were given the opportunity, through art, to express their feelings, whether prior to or through coming out, or their thoughts as an “out” artist. The show premiered in February and has traveled to various public venues in the region.
“Coming Out” features Scott Alpert, Victor Capecce, William Douglas, Mindy Deardorff, Neil R. Dreilbelbis, Andrew Guth, Sherryl Heberlig, Robert Hughes, Melody Keim, Kristin Kest, Steve Myers, Kristen Richards, Terri Lynne Smith, Sarah Stroyan and Kate Williams. Many have exhibited their work throughout Central Pennsylvania and several are nationally known.
“I am proud to continue the work of former Multicultural Affairs Coordinator Christina Oscsodal in setting up this pioneering exhibit,” said Brenda DiModugno, who now is coordinator of multicultural affairs at the campus. “It is my hope that many people will attend the opening reception to show support for these local artists.”