MoorArts’ holiday arts festival will be held at the Church Street recreation center following the Lions Club holiday parade on Dec. 3.
Now in its 14th year, the event gives students in the township’s public school system an opportunity to showcase their work for the community.
“It was the brainchild of two students who were student reps at MoorArts,” said Diane Cairoli, the center’s visual arts trustee. “They came up with this idea and we went for it.”
Cairoli has seen mediums such as paintings, pastels and photography in previous shows and she described seeing students’ reactions to their displayed work.
“They usually bring the grandparents and the whole family, and they’re getting their pictures taken in front of the art and it’s really fun,” she said. “I’ve seen that at both the holiday arts festival and at the one that we have in June, too, the district arts show.”
“They’re just really proud of course, and they’re just so excited.”
Cairoli said teachers enjoy seeing their students shine.
“Sometimes the teachers will be there and they usually make an appearance for sure, and I’m sure they’re proud of their students and all the work and all the hours they put in teaching them,” she noted.
“I just think that they’re so talented and with the teacher’s help, they have just done amazing things and continue to do amazing things.”
MoorArts, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the fine and performing arts in Moorestown and its schools, hosts events throughout the year that support scholarships and teacher grants for arts-related projects.
Cairoli believes the holiday arts festival is important for students.
“Our statement is, ‘We believe that arts should be regarded as a necessity, not a luxury,’” she explained. “It’s so nice to have this open for people to come for free.”
Cairoli said the arts show adds a festive touch to the holiday season and enables the students’ creativity to be shared with family and friends.
“I think that is really something to take home to,” she said. “The whole concept of art as being a way to express yourself in ways that you can’t otherwise do and it gives you that outlet, and I think that’s so important, especially in these times where people are saying, ‘Oh no, we don’t need an art program.’ Yes, we do.”
“This just emphasizes how important it is and … what these talented students can do.”
The holiday arts festival starts at 1 p.m. on the third floor of the Church Street recreation center. Entertainment will include live music and a children’s craft station.
Visit MoorArts’ Facebook page for more information.
