The Cuyahoga Valley Art Center (CVAC), 2131 Front Street Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221, has invited all area artists to participate in, IN BLOOM: A Floral Exhibition, to be on display in CVAC’s gallery from June 26^th  – July 27^th. This juried exhibition will highlight up to 60 works of art spanning across a plethora of differing artistic mediums. “Flowers have been utilized as a form of visual communication for centuries, its symbology reflecting both social changes and artistic innovations throughout time.” tells Danielle Dieterich, Director of CVAC. “This exhibition shall highlight the visual impact of flowers through a variety of different mediums.”

Professional Artist Mark Giangaspero, native of Akron & Cuyahoga Falls will be jurying CVAC’s IN BLOOM: A Floral Exhibition. Giangaspero studied and taught under Jack Richards, of Jack Richards Studio on Front Street Mall in Cuyahoga Falls, until his untimely passing in 2014. After taking some time off, he recently began teaching again at CVAC this past spring on Monday afternoons. Giangaspero has shown and continues to show in National and International exhibitions such as McDonough Museum, the Butler Institute of American Art, Viewpoints at the Cincinnati Art Club, National Arts Club in New York and many others. His works “Mr. Richardson” and “Portrait of Chris” are in the Butler Institute of American Art Permanent Collection.

Giangaspero will select one first-place winner, who shall receive a $150 cash prize, a second-place winner who shall receive a $75 cash prize and up to 5 honorable mentions. Awards will be distributed as the winners are celebrated during the IN BLOOM: A Floral Exhibition reception on July 14^th from 5:30-7:00 PM. Patrons will have the opportunity to mingle with the artists, enjoy refreshments and hors d’oeuvres and purchase art during this free reception.

In an effort to support the artistic development of today’s artists, CVAC is excited to continue showcasing the up-and-coming as well as established artists of today. Hosting upwards of ten open-call exhibitions a year, more than most art centers in Ohio, CVAC’s exhibitions continue to be competitive and well respected within the arts community.