Side Street Studio Arts presents 'Changing Light,' featuring work of artists-interns

Side Street Studio Arts, 15 Ziegler Court in downtown Elgin, will host an exhibit of artwork created by its artist-interns Adrian Mesino and Ricco Nunes titled "Changing Light."

The exhibit is a culmination of the two Elgin artists' time as artist-interns. It opens Friday, Aug. 18, with a gallery reception from 7 to 9 p.m.

It also will feature a music and storytelling performance by Mesino. The event is open to the public, with a $5 suggested donation at the door.

"Changing Light" is an exhibition showcasing the relationship between reality and identity while aiming to escape, create, and hold on to environments and the individuals within them. The exhibit is inspired by the artists' desires and wishes. From graphic novel characters to real life friends, the show highlights personal experiences, fantasies, and elements derived from life.

The artist-intern program launched during the summer of 2013 and has since seen 17 young artists participate. The professional practice program is designed to help young artists as they find and explore different entrepreneurship and artistic methods. At the culmination of the experience, with guidance from its directors and staff, an exhibition or production is created from an ongoing archive of each artist's work. Artist-interns explore best practices for managing, editing, and install of work, and become an integral part of the support staff.

Side Street Studio Arts was founded in 2013 by Tanner Melvin and Erin Rehberg as an outlet for the Elgin arts scene. Currently under the direction of Amanda Harris, Roberto Martinez, Melvin, and Rehberg, it provides educational and creative resources and an accessible space, run by artists. Its mission is to support the artist and artistic journey through collaboration. For more information on the artist-intern program, visit www.SideStreetStudioArts.org, call (847) 429-2276 or email SideStreetStudioArts@gmail.com.