OIL CITY, Pa. — Graffiti Gallery in Oil City is currently accepting submissions for an art exhibit titled “Heal” that will show during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The exhibition will run from September 9 to October 7, and is open to the public. All artists are welcome to submit to the juried show.

The new exhibit is curated by local artist and social issues advocate Kiyomi Knox, of the PPC Violence Free Network.

“[The exhibit] is just something I wanted to do to tie together the gallery and Domestic Violence Awareness Month,” Knox commented.

While the show is being held in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, Knox is asking artists to depict their interpretation of healing from any experience, whether it be from trauma, illness, loss, or mental health.

Knox said the show is meant to create a sense of healing for artists exhibiting their work and also for the viewers of the show.

“The ‘heal’ topic really covers every single person, so I’ve had a lot of positive response about people wanting to be involved,” Knox explained.

Drop off for artwork is from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on September 4, at 206 Seneca Street.

Other arrangements for artwork drop off can be made by contacting Knox at k.m.knox@eagle.clarion.edu.

Submission Requirements

• The gallery can accommodate most traditional mediums, but artists must contact ahead of the drop-off date for large installations, electric, kinetic, heavy, or unusual pieces.
• Artwork must be ready to hang.
• Artists may submit up to three pieces for a hanging fee of $15.00 to be paid by check or money order.

The opening reception will be held alongside with Oil City’s Wine Walk on Friday, September 9, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Light refreshments to be served.

There will also be a healing activity that viewers can participate in while attending the opening. Shirts and markers will be provided in order to show expression about violence for the Clothesline Project, which will be displayed during the month of October.

The Graffiti Gallery is open Fridays and Saturdays from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., as volunteers are available.

For additional information, people can visit www.graffitigalleryoc.org or call 814-676-5303.

Graffiti Gallery is a non-profit exhibition space under the Oil City Arts Council operated by volunteers. Now in its sixth year, the gallery presents seven shows annually and advocates cultural development through diverse themes, local history, and newer artistic genres. It has presented both regionally awarded professionals and emerging local artists. The space is rentable and open to community events. Interns and volunteers are welcome. The submission fee is $15.00 for up to three pieces, payable by check.