New art gallery features local artists
By: Lydia Kuelsov 09/01/2008
Photo by Mark Stanley.
There is a hidden treasure waiting to be rediscovered on the Northside. It is well-known and loved by the people who have been attending faithfully for many years. The Parkway United Church of Christ, which like many other places of worship, is going through a transition to remain relevant in today's rapidly changing world. As the congregation ages and the surrounding community changes, the church continues to redefine itself with the foundational belief that "God is Still Speaking"- that life, spirit and worship is an ever-changing process that people of all walks of life can engage in as a community right now.
Parkway continues to build its vital music program with many talented singers and musicians enriching the worship services. There is a wide variety of spiritual music drawn from different cultural traditions and genres - from classical music to Hungarian folk songs, from African American gospels to Native American chants, from ancient Gaelic melodies to early American shape note spirituals - many found in the church hymnal for community song and worship, honoring the rich cultural traditions that make up this community. As a newcomer to the church, I have been moved to tears many a time by the beauty and soulfulness of some of these songs, often accompanied by piano or the incredible pipe organ that the church owns, or the wonderful choir or the unique Bell Choir. Often, outside musicians are invited to perform, and what talented artists they all are!
Parkway is now expanding its Arts Program to include the visual arts. As part if its effort to reach out to the wider community in an open and affirming way, Parkway is opening its new Parkway Arts Gallery this September. The inaugural exhibition, Of Nature and Spirit, draws from the work of 10 local artists whose selected works explore the relationship between nature, spirit and the arts. The exhibition runs through December 7, and will include monthly events in the "Spirit of the Arts" series, including guest speakers leading workshops, artist talks and panel discussions and more. Come join us for the opening reception on September 7, from noon-5 p.m., for music, food and refreshment, and a chance to meet the artists. Parkway is at 3120 Washburn, at the intersection of Lowry and Washburn. To contact the church call 612-522-1439. For Parkway Arts Gallery info call Lydia at 612-722-2614.
