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War through the eyes of children: Sister City art exhibit and auction

Marshalltown is proud to host an extraordinary art exhibit and auction featuring the heartfelt work of children from Zdolbuniv, Ukraine, our sister city. The exhibit, titled “War Through the Eyes of Children,” showcases art created by young artists aged 6 to 15. Each piece is accompanied by a short bio written by the artist or their teacher, offering a glimpse into the child’s perspective and creative process.

In my December column, I shared how Zdolbuniv had sent us something truly extraordinary — artwork created by the children in their community. At the time, the Sister City Committee, was

working in collaboration with the Marshalltown Arts and Culture Alliance and the Marshalltown Arts & Civic Center (MACC) to bring the art to a gallery, with plans to auction the pieces to support Zdolbuniv. I am thrilled to announce that this vision is now becoming a reality! This is a free public art exhibit during regular viewing hours at the MACC, and no cost to attend the LIVE auction on Jan. 31. We warmly invite the community to enjoy and appreciate these powerful pieces of art.

Public Viewing Hours at the MACC: 709 S Center Street, Marshalltown, IA 50158

• Wednesday, Jan. 22: 10 AM – 4 PM

• Thursday, Jan. 23: 10 AM – 7 PM

• Friday, Jan. 24: 10 AM – 7:30 PM (online auction begins Jan. 24 to Jan. 30– Check out the QR code provided to view art and check instructions on placing your online bid)

• Wednesday, Jan. 29: 10 AM – 4 PM

• Thursday, Jan. 30: 10 AM – 7:30 PM

LIVE Auction Night:

• Friday, Jan. 31 at 7 PM at the MACC

The live event will feature refreshments and a cash bar. For those unable to attend in person, an online auction will run from Jan. 24 to Jan. 30. As I wrote in December, art has a unique ability to speak when words fail. These children’s creations offer a glimpse into their lives during wartime, inviting us to connect with their resilience and humanity. I encourage our community to join this event, whether in person or online. Together, we can support Zdolbuniv and continue building bridges of compassion and understanding.

——

Melisa Fonseca is Marshalltown’s

Fourth Ward city councilor.

Starting at $4.38/week.

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