******FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***** 
March 22, 2009

J. Erik Jonsson Dallas Central Library exhibits DIAMONDS from DUST: 152 portraits of Great Peacemakers, created by young artists in the MasterPEACE program of Today Marks the Beginning.

Dallas, TX - Students in two Dallas elementary schools and three afterschool programs created collage portraits of global peacemakers, resulting in this inspiring exhibit. The students were all participants in the MasterPEACE program of Today Marks the Beginning. The exhibit also includes 12 photographs by Dallas photographer John Katz, who captured the process.

Participating schools were Parish Episcopal and L.L. Hotchkiss Elementary. The three afterschool programs were at Whitney Young Elementary; J.L. Long Middle School and S.S. Conner Elementary. These afterschool lessons were done in conjunction with the Thriving Minds program of Big Thought.

The curriculum of MasterPEACE: Young Artists Making a Kinder World, focuses on combining peacemaking skills of non-violence with art experiences for the children. The particular lesson that inspired these portraits is titled "Great Peacemakers Like You and Me."  The children were asked to make something out of nothing, just like these heroes who tackled extremely difficult situations.  In the portraits, a bottle top could become an eye. A straw could become a nose; a piece of discarded jewelry, a hat. A special reception will be held March 26, 10 am – noon.  All are invited. Free.
	
Where: J. Erik Jonsson Central Library 1515 Young St. 75201, exhibited in 2nd Floor, Kahn Pavilion, 3rd Floor, Northwall, 4th Floor, Northwall and Showcases 
      
When: Peacemakers Portrait Exhibit March through April 2009. Free.
	

Contact: Lou Michaels, 469-438-6640   michaels@talentdynamics.com
  
       Karen Blessen, 214-827-3257
       kblessen@todaymarksthebeginning.org kblessen@sbcglobal.net

       John Katz, 214-637-0844
       j@johnkatz.net

Mission: Today Marks the Beginning uses art to impact public awareness of social issues. Innovative projects join with creative talents to help bring about unifying and compassionate solutions.

www.todaymarksthebeginning.org
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