By Regina Strong | Inside Busines
June 7, 2011

Smiles, cheers and pride were on display Thursday as students and parents from across the region celebrated the arts and cultural diversity during ArtQuest:  An Expedition Exhibition at the Diplomat Specialty Pharmacy Building Atrium.  Works of the next Monet, Picasso or Michelangelo may have been among the more than 800 artistic displays and performances showcased at the event presented by the Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce’s YouthQuest, an afterschool enrichment program.

A cross section of parents, students and the community were on hand to witness the talents of more than 2,000 students from across the region.  Songs of inspiration, paintings of wildlife and mosaics with a global perspective were just a portion of the talent represented during the event.

ArtQuest covered the culture from multiple continents and highlighted the creative work of students from schools throughout the region. The exhibition featured more than 800 pieces of artwork and 10 short performances including skits, dance routines and musical performances.

“YouthQuest is designed to provide positive outlets for students after the school day is over,” said Rhetta Hunyady, Group Vice President of Operations and Employer Education and Training.  “Through the arts, students enhance their leadership skills and the global focus of this exhibition provided a chance for them to transcend the world they live in everyday and gain a broader perspective.  The students worked hard to offer a fantastic show.  Thanks to their hard work and dedication the response was excellent.”