I wanted to post this a few weeks ago, but I am still learning how to edit and put video into a blog - so it's a little later than expected, but the message still resonates. 

Italy has so many wonderful things to brag about: geography - the Piedmont is stunning; to the food - event in the Fast Food restaurants you can get a glass of wine; and the arts & culture scene - beyond David and the Uffizi there are free concerts and performances nightly. As someone who owns an art gallery - Gallery 213 - the amount of FREE or next to free, access to various art and cultural experiences around the country is amazing.

My first introduction to the Italian Summer Music Festival scene was in Asti at an intimate performance by Roger McGuinn formerly from the Byrds.  This is the first time I have posted a video to YouTube... Good thing I am not a film director!

That evening was special, not only because of the intimacy of the show - small classroom, summer rainstorm outside and acoustic performance by one of the legends of rock music. It was special because even though the music was in English, and the songs were written for an earlier generation, the audience joined in singing and all ages from 6 to 86 years were moved and inspired.

It's amazing how music can transcend generations and have a message that unites. The same can be said for other forms of art. On September 3^rd the Milestones Project will be showcasing the Canadian Premier of its Diversity Photo Exhibit. "Celebrating childhood around the world to tell the same story and confirm a universal truth: We are all connected. This connection is where true and believable healing begins."

Event Details -

Grand Opening Reception - Thursday, Sept. 3^rd, 5:30-9:00pm

Program - Presentation by Photographers: Richard & Michele Steckel

Location - Gallery 213, #213 - 100, 7^th Ave. SW (Art Central)

Art, all forms, has a unifying force - supporting projects, like the Milestones Project Photo Exhibit - can actually bring about social change. Not because it is free, but because it is built on the values and the principles that are at the core of humanity.

Exhibits like this one cannot happen without the support of many people and companies behind the scenes. One corporate partner that Gallery 213 and Milestones Project would like to recognize is INDUSTRYimages. Thank you to Gavin Harrison and his team for helping us put this exhibit together. If you are interested in volunteering or supporting this project please contact Lindsay Gordon or download the sponsorship PDF below.