January 14, 2010
CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH - On November 22, senior Reggie Evans received the second place award in Facing History’s Young Artists Speak Up art exhibit at the Western Reserve Historical Society in Cleveland. The exhibit runs through February 26 and is part of Facing History’s Choosing to Participate community programming.

Reggie’s self portrait is set in his Noble neighborhood, with the stars and planets visible. Reggie describes his style as realism with flair. He started taking art lessons at Cleveland Institute of Art when he was 10 years old. “Mrs. Hood-Cogan here at Heights has been great—she gives me lots of creative freedom but encourages me to work hard,” he said.

“The painting shows my sanctuary—my neighborhood—where I feel safe and at home,” he said. “Cleveland Heights is such a great place—I think we encourage up standers here.”

The exhibit includes profiles of Up Standers, individuals and groups who have fought injustice, including 25 from the Cleveland area. It looks at the importance of participating in a democratic society, inclusive communities, and the consequences of action and inaction.