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High school student holds art show to benefit Micah Ecumenical Ministries Date published: 4/24/2008
BY AMY FLOWERS UMBLE
Michael Mathias, a Courtland High School senior, didn't have to look far for his culminating Commonwealth Governor's School project. His father, Joe, manages Ritz Camera in Fredericksburg's Central Park and his mother, Betsy, volunteers with Micah Ecumenical Ministries. Michael took his first pictures as soon as his young hands could hold a camera. And he often volunteers at the community dinners his church holds for the area homeless. He also sometimes dropped off food when his mom volunteered at Micah's hospitality center weekday mornings. So when Michael had to do a yearlong project, he wanted to combine his passion for photography with his heart for the homeless. He put together an art show to raise money for Micah's work with the homeless. "I'm excited to see those 18 and under having an interest in ending homelessness," said Meghann Cotter, Micah's executive director. "It will take every person in this community, from every business to every agency, from every nonprofit down to every high-schooler to have a commitment to ending homelessness in this area." Michael, an 18-year-old who has also worked with the homeless on mission trips with the Presbyterian Church of Fredericksburg, created the exhibit by approaching friends and area art teachers with requests for artwork. The works will include paintings, photography and sculpture. They will feature landscapes and some works dealing with homelessness. Michael doesn't know how many works will be on display in the Fellowship Hall of the Presbyterian Church, but he hopes the show will provide exposure both for high school artists and for Micah. He especially wants teens to learn more about homelessness through the project, so they can help those without a place to live. "Everyone knows there are homeless in the area, but they don't know more than that sometimes," Michael said. "Teens might see a homeless person on the street and give them five bucks, and that might not really be what that homeless person needs. It might be better to give money to Micah or a group that helps them." Amy Flowers Umble: 540/735-1973
Date published: 4/24/2008
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