The Moundsville-Marshall County Public Library, the Benwood-McMechen Public Library and the Cameron Public Library will host collage-pop art events with New York-area artist Michael Albert this month, along with other area venues.
From 4:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, June 19, the Moundsville Library will have a special meet-and-greet reception and exhibition of Michael Albert’s work. The highlight of the evening will be Albert’s presentation of two original collages, celebrating Moundsville and Marshall County, to city and county officials. Light refreshments will be available. Albert will share his background and techniques for the workshop – anyone interested in trying their hand at collage may do so, whether you’re 7 or 77. Participants are invited to stay for the concluding art gift giveaway and signing.
The Benwood-McMechen program is set for 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 20, and the Cameron Library program will be from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. the same day. These events are especially promoted for youngsters for the “Libraries Rock” Summer Reading Program.
These programs will begin with a presentation by the artist/author followed by a hands-on cereal box collage workshop. Bring your favorite cereal box (or other colorful thin cardboard packaging) and turn it into a unique work of art. The program is recommended for ages 7 and up. There will also be plenty of cereal boxes on hand for anyone who doesn’t bring their own or wants to find additional letters, colors and pictures. Following the workshops, there will be a free poster giveaway and signing for all participants, with other items available for purchase.
Albert is the author of An Artist’s America, which features examples of his own signature brand of collage art dubbed “Cerealism.” It all began in 1996 when instead of throwing away an empty Frosted Flakes cereal box he turned it into original art. Albert is also the founder of Sir Real, a brand of organic all-natural fruit juices with packaging that features his artwork. Merging the pop culture of consumer packaging with art, and merging art with natural foods, was a “green” accident waiting to happen, because the business school graduate sought to give his natural creativity an outlet that was also good for the environment and the consumer.
Albert makes frequent appearances at museums, libraries, schools and other venues, offering presentations and workshops to share his enthusiasm for art, learning, imaginative recycling and creativity with a conscience.
The Moundsville Library is located at the corner of Fifth Street and Tomlinson Avenue. The Benwood-McMechen Library is located at 201 Marshall St., McMechen (304-232-9720). The Cameron Library is located at 44 Main St. (third floor of the Benedum Building) in Cameron. (304-686-2140). These events are sponsored by the Evan G. Roberts Trust through BB&T Bank and the Robert Baker family. Call 304-845-6911 (Moundsville-Marshall County Public Library) for more information.
