Jazzmatazz: A Renaissance of Urban Innovation
Grand Opening Gala to support non-profit arts foundation in Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood.
CHICAGO, IL (PRWEB) September 11, 2004
A New Place to Culture Black Pearls Grand Opening of New 40,000-Square-Foot Arts Facility on ChicagoÂ’s South Side
On Sept. 25, 2004, at 6:00 p. m., the Little Black Pearl will celebrate the grand opening of its new facility in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood. “Jazzmatazz: A Renaissance of Urban Innovation,” presented by Bank One, will benefit the organization, which has brought the business of art to a number of urban youth during its 10-year operating history.
The new Little Black Pearl Art and Design Center is 10 times the size of the organizationÂ’s current facility. Located on the corner of 47th and Greenwood Avenue, the center will allow the organization to continue to serve the community and youth that often have little or no exposure to the arts and business. With the help of various community leaders and residents, it will contribute to the revitalization of the cultural and economic status of the North Kenwood/Oakland area.
The gala will begin with a ribbon cutting ceremony held outside the new facility; it will also feature a silent auction, a gourmet dinner, vocal performances from Cassandra Wilson, Rachelle Farrell and Lalah Hathaway, as well as enlightening comments and congratulations from Senate President Emil Jones and other community leaders.
“The Art and Design Center is a culmination of 10 years of hard work and dedication,” according to Executive Director Monica Haslip. She started the organization on the first floor of her home, the organization’s operational headquarters since 1994. “The opportunities that will be provided for the community and program participants are enormous and will last for generations to come,” Haslip said.
Little Black Pearl employees will teach ceramics, woodworking, welding, mosaics, painting and glassblowing to students and workshop participants. In addition to the art studios and an Internet-ready computer lab which houses state-of-the-art equipment, the 40,000-square-foot renovated space will include a two-story glass atrium and courtyard, retail space and a restaurant that will be open to the public.
“We are so proud of the hard work that our students have performed over the years,” said Haslip. “Their level of dedication and professionalism has made it possible for us to include an amazing art gallery in the new facility that will feature the work of Little Black Pearl students, as well as emerging and professional artists.”
About Little Black Pearl
Little Black Pearl is a non-profit organization focused on the empowerment of youth and their families through the use of art. Students who participate in the programs deepen their creativity in the course of learning lifelong entrepreneurial skills.
The mission of the organization is to create avenues for exposure to art and culture while teaching the profitable connection between art, education and business. For more information, please visit us on-line at www. blackpearl. org or call us at 773-285-1211.
About Bank One
Bank One is the largest retail and business bank in Chicago, serving customers through more than 230 branches and 1,100 ATMs. During the past decade, Bank One has committed more than $65 million to non-profit organizations serving the people of Chicago. Bank One, which will change its name to Chase next year, contributes to economic development, youth education, arts and culture and other philanthropic efforts.
Contact: Marc Newman or Dina Harris
Ph: (773) 285-1211
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