Use this search box to find articles that have run in our newspapers over the last several years.
Correspondent HOLYOKE Maria Baez brings out the best and most creative side of the children she comes in contact with every day in the city. Baez's efforts will be showcased in the fourth annual Broderick House Art Exhibit slated April 24, featuring artwork made by the children at the Broderick House, as well as from the Morgan School and Brightside for Families and Children in West Springfield. Children whose parents work at Holyoke City Hall are also exhibiting work as part of the show. Baez serves as site director at the Broderick House, a transitional housing site for homeless families on Cabot Street. She noted during an interview with Reminder Publications that what sets this exhibit apart are the "self-expressions through art and the collaborations of different agencies in the community." "Art is my therapy," Baez said, adding, "many positive experiences through art have inspired me so I want to pass it along to the families at the Broderick House and beyond." Indeed. As one walks through the stately first floor of the Broderick House, there are colorful examples of artwork everywhere in watercolors, oils, pencil sketches and magic markers and more are arriving daily. The art exhibit is family oriented and includes work by children of all ages. The first floor of the Broderick House encompasses a dining room, living room, kitchen, pantry and various office space, and bright and bold artwork for the upcoming show graces the walls of each room. The second and third floors are reserved for the living spaces of each family. The theme of this year's show is "Emotion," and Baez proudly notes that 90 percent of the entries are all originals and most are available for sale. All proceeds raised from the art sales will help the families at the Broderick House. "I wanted the families to express themselves through a positive avenue," she added. "The creation of art is a universal recreational activity that allows for all people of every age, race, gender and background to participate." As part of the April 24 festivities from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. which is open to the public, a Spanish luncheon is planned from 12 to 1 p.m. Baez will host a pizza and ice cream reception for the young artists later in the day. "It is a positive experience not only for the artists, but for their families and the entire community," Baez said. Baez has dabbled in watercolors, oils, acrylics and pencil sketches herself for more than 20 years, and notes she enjoys teaching children the importance of self-expression through art. If she had a wish list for the Broderick House, it would be an ample supply of basic art-related items so that children would always have resources to create artwork. "Any art supplies are always welcome and are tax-deductible," she added. When Baez isn't working at the Broderick House, she can be found engaging children through the programs of the city's Park and Recreation Department. Earlier this year, she received the Civic Pride Award by Mayor Michael J. Sullivan. "Her energy is endless, as is her love for her community and those who live in it," Karen M. Blanchard, director of Providence Ministries for the Needy Inc., said, which oversees the Broderick House. Area residents interested in more information about the art exhibit may contact Baez at 534-7610. The Broderick House is named after Sr. Agnes Broderick, S.P., who was instrumental in the creation of the program. The goal of the Broderick House is to assist homeless families move into safe, affordable housing, while also providing life-training skills and counseling to the women while they are residents. | ||||||
