June 9, 2023 - September 2023

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Art for the Soul Gallery showcases an exhibition of skateboard decks designed and executed by local and national artists. The exhibit opened on June 9th, 2023 and will be on view until September 2023. An opening reception was held at the gallery on 1500 Main Street in Springfield on Sunday, June 25th, 2023 from 4:00-7:00 pm.

All skate decks are available for purchase. In honor of National Mental Health Month, funds will be donated to Behavioral Health Network, Inc. and The Disability Law Center. The public is invited to view the works of new and veteran gallery artists, and vote on their favorite designs. Prizes will be awarded to artists in several categories as chosen by visitors.

This exhibition is a part of the Gateway city project Gio’s Ollie Session, a series of events that aim to dispel the stigma surrounding skateboarding, advance inclusivity, and promote safety. According to our Executive Director, Ms. Rosemary Tracy Woods, “It’s time we changed people’s negative perceptions about skateboarding. We want to open the doors and encourage the youth of Springfield to pursue the art of skateboarding - and to do it safely.” In 2022, Springfield’s Park Commission voted to approve the construction of a bike and skate park to be built on Carew Street. Since this vote, the Parks and Recreation Department has begun to create a plan for the park’s construction.

Art for the Soul Gallery hopes to activate the community through this exhibition in support of the park. Art for the Soul also participated in the National Skateboard Day celebration at Greenleaf Community Center on June 20, 2023. Some of the day’s activities consisted of a Community Paint Party with Commonwealth Murals and an informational booth with Theory Skateshop. 

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