By SALINA POST
With a bit of talent, even shipping labels can be made into works of art.
The First Friday showcase at The Flower Nook is proof of that.
The First Friday event is scheduled for 5-7 p.m. Friday at The Flower Nook, 208 E. Iron Avenue.
What has now become the showcase for June came about when Peggy DeBey of The Flower Nook challenged inmates at Ellsworth Correctional Facility to create visual artwork on four-inch by 8-inch manila shipping tags using any type of medium.
"The result of the tag art challenge features a variety of themes with exceptional art work," DeBey noted.
The Flower Nook supplied the material and Ellsworth Correctional Facility offered art classes for those first-time artists, as well as to those who just wanted to brush up on their skills, DeBey explained.
"I originally pitched the idea of using tea bags, but was told I could not bring tea bags into the cells as they could be/would be used for drugs," DeBey told Salina Post. "I did some extensive searching and we finally agree the tag was similar in size."
DeBey said she presented the project to Ellsworth Correctional Facility as she knew part of the mission of the facility was to provide encouragement, support, and opportunities for the inmates. DeBey said she believes "creating, whether the process takes place inside a jail cell or in a fully outfitted studio setting, produces a dialogue first for personal reflection and then builds community connections."
While the inmates will not be able to attend the First Friday event, nor will their names be revealed, a journal notebook will be available for those attending the event to share their thoughts and encouraging messages about the art, DeBey said. Additionally, The Flower Nook plans to create a YouTube video to share with Ellsworth Correctional Facility
The showcase tag art, however, is not the only thing to see during The Flower Nook's First Friday event. Also available will be the following, according to information on The Flower Nook's Facebook page.
●A book signing for artist Mary Ann Tanking's second edition of Flora, Fauna, Fish & Fowl.
●Tea Bag Challenge artwork.
●Taraen Tarot readings.
●John Jones nozzle collection.
●New Kansas foods.
●A floral art installation.
●Artwork by 14 additional unique artisans