El Buen Amigo Art Opening

El Buen Amigo, a fair trade storefront and cultural center in Allentown is pleased to announce the re-opening of their Community Art Gallery, featuring a show by the Rich Art Experience (RAE), at 7PM, on October 2nd, at 114 Elmwood Avenue.

RAE is a group of individuals with special needs who create beautiful artwork in a variety of mediums.  The work on display will feature abstracts, landscapes, paint on photography and portraits by five different artists - Nancy Richert, Brian Federick, Ann Milliken, Betsy Roshner and Dan Mika.

Named in honor of art therapist, Molly Rich, who ran an art therapy program until her retirement (and the subsequent cut in funding), Rich and her friend and ally Barbara Murak began RAE, which meets weekly at the Impact Gallery in the Tri-Main Center.

"Our focus is on art-making, exhibiting and socialization," Murak said. "The group members talk openly about the stigma of mental illness and demonstrate non-judgmental acceptance and support of each other."  

The Latin American Cultural Association (LACA) of El Buen Amigo is honored to welcome the creative and accomplished group to the gallery.  Look for LACA to increase their efforts in the future to support the Buffalo Arts Community with community and cultural events such as gallery openings, live concerts and parties. LACA is working to cultivate relationships among local artists and provide opportunities that encourage emerging artists to stay and work in Buffalo. 

Call 716.885.6343 for more information.