Nov. 29, 2021 -- RoxArts and Cleveland artist Debbie Apple-Presser teamed up recently to offer an art project to all CH-UH elementary school students called "Together We Rise."

The K-5 students painted self-portraits using the primary and secondary colors of their choice to express their individuality and emotions. The color choices offered to them did not include skin or hair tones such as black, brown, peach, or white. The goal was to show students how colors in a self-portrait can reflect how the artist feels on the inside.
   
"I chose this project because it truly reveals the depth of one's character and individuality, which in turn, shines a light on the many different ways our students excel and shine. Together, we rise," said Apple-Presser. "Together We Rise" is the District's theme for the 2021-2022 school year.

The community will have several chances over the coming months to view the students' artwork in person. The first pop-up gallery will be at Appletree Books on Cedar Road, beginning on December 3 with an Artists' Reception from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. On that day, 10% of Appletree's sales will benefit RoxArts. The event is free to attend.

Watch the video, produced by Heights graduate Antonio Harper ('13), of Apple-Presser introducing the project to students and providing instructions.

RoxArts is a nonprofit that supports enrichment opportunities to introduce all students, K-8th grade, to a variety of forms of creative expression across the CH-UH school district