In continuing with the GEM 2004-2005 theme, Students Take Action on HIV/AIDS, students were invited to express their thoughts on HIV/AIDS through their artwork. The artwork was then put on display at the MYX (Multicultural Youth eXchange) Gallery in Philadelphia. The exhibition opened on January 7, 2005 and ran through February 11, 2005

Featured in the exhibition was work by students from Creative Arts High School, Camden, NJ, South Seneca Middle School, Ovid, NY and Chinese AIDS orphans from Henan Province in China.

Creative Arts High School created a series of works entitled “Nobody Should be Alone”. The series included 18 figural drawings depicting the emotions that people facing HIV/AIDS experience. At the center of the series was a group drawing, featuring the title of the works. The series was collaborated by art teacher Ms. Adele DiMedio.

The students from South Seneca Middle School expressed their thoughts on HIV/AIDS in the form of an Art Quilt. Students used drawings, sketches, poetry, and prose to share their feelings on this topic. The quilt featured work by more than sixty students under the direction of their teacher, Mrs. Heather Cranford.

The third group of artwork was created by children from Henan Province in China. The series features approximately 20 paintings by AIDS orphans. Each drawing is accompanied by a one page Chinese essay and its English translation. Most of these paintings illustrate the hopes and dreams of these children who are living through a tragedy with devastating social and economic impact. More than fifty people attended the opening of the exhibition. Funds raised through the free-will donation will be donated to the ongoing work of the China AIDS Orphan Fund.

Visit MYX at www.myxworld.com.