Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/121369
Sarasota News Leader April 12, 2013 Page 97 10TH ANNUAL EMBRACING OUR DIFFERENCES EXHIBIT OPEN Since 2004, Embracing Our Differences' annual juried art exhibit has graced downtown Sarasota's bayfront with billboard-sized images created by artists, writers and students from around the world reflecting their interpretation of the message, "enriching lives through diversity," a news release notes. 250,000 people visited the exhibit in Island Park in 2012. "By creating simultaneous exhibits in Bradenton and Sarasota, we expect to increase audiences by 25,000 for this year alone," Shelton adds in the release. "We look forward to providing even more opportunities for our community to deepen its awareness This year, a grant from the William G. and that respecting the views of others and standMarie Selby Foundation enabled the organi- ing up against hatred and prejudice will lead zation to mark its 10th anniversary with an to a better world for everyone." expansion of the exhibit to Bradenton. The Shelton notes the organization received more Embracing Our Differences artwork will be than 4,000 pieces of art and statements from showcased in Sarasota's Island Park through people in 52 countries, including Kenya, MaJune 2; at the Anthony T. Rossi Waterfront laysia, Israel, Iran, the Philippines, Singapore Park in downtown Bradenton through April and the United Kingdom, as well as the United 29; and at North Port High School, May 1 to States. Students from 128 elementary, junior June 2, the release adds. and high schools comprised 60 percent of the According to Michael Shelton, executive di- individuals submitting art and quotes, the rerector of Embracing Our Differences, nearly lease points out. The artwork is displayed throughout much of Island Park. Photo by Norman Schimmel