Lubeznik Center for the Arts (LCA) and the Lindsey O’Brien Kesling (LOK) Wishing Tree Foundation will host the 9th annual LOK Young Artist Expo (YAE) showcase on Friday, June 3 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Central at LCA as part of their free First Friday program.

In addition to the exhibition, the evening’s presentation will begin 6 p.m. This year’s agenda includes performances by South Shore Dance Alliance, a longtime partner of the LOK Wishing Tree Foundation. Second City of Chicago graduate and actor, Timmy Barron will return for another year of emceeing and entertaining the crowd with his comedy. Guests can also enjoy complimentary light bites and a cash bar.

This year’s exhibition is a showcase of more than talented 30 talented youths, ages 7 through 17 in all media. The LOK YAE represents artists from LCA’s partnerships with numerous regional schools from 11 different communities. The artwork was chosen through individual portfolio review the students had with LCA’s education director. The LOK YAE will be on view in LCA’s NIPSCO Art Education Studios from May 27 through July 8, and much of the work is for sale.

Attendees will also be able to peruse the other LCA galleries. Now until June 11, LatinXAmerican will be on display, and moniquemeloche presents… will be on display starting June 18. All LCA’s galleries are open to the public six days per week, free of charge.

"The YAE is a one-of-a-kind celebration, honoring these gifted students. The education and mentorship behind the scenes necessary to prep them for YAE is extensive, only possible due to their fearless educators. I get the biggest thrill witnessing their expressions when the general public views their work. This is leadership and confidence budding 101. We have provided them a platform to express in their most natural way,” said Dot Kesling, co-founder of LOK Wishing Tree Foundation.

The LOK YAE is made possible by an ongoing collaboration between LCA and the LOK Wishing Tree Foundation. The LOK is a “living legacy to Lindsey O’Brien Kesling.” It has a dual mission: carbon monoxide education and supporting young people in achieving their highest potential, unleashing their talents and acting upon their dreams through a wide variety of creative and performing arts opportunities. LCA works to ensure everyone in our community, including young people, receives equal access to outstanding cultural experiences.

To learn more about the LOK Wishing Tree Foundation, please visit lokwishingtree.org. To learn more about LCA, please visit LubeznikCenter.org or call (219) 874-4900.