Persistence IV: d’Art Center’s Annual National All Women’s Exhibition

Persistence is an annual exhibition that features work from female artists from across the country to celebrate Women’s History Month. This annual exhibition is open to functional, non-functional, 2D, 3D, fine art, and fine craft in all mediums. In honor of Women’s History Month, this exhibition is only open to female artists.

The open call for Persistence IV received 400 submissions from 112 artists from 26 states. 67 pieces from 50 artists from 19 states
(11 Virginian artists) were selected for this exhibition.

Juror Biography: Lori Pratico is the founder of the Girl Noticed Community Mural Project. Girl Noticed is a community-based arts outreach program that through self discovery uncovers and showcases the unique strengths, contributions and abilities of females, illuminating their greatness and its value in society. Nominations cover a wide spectrum, from overcoming personal struggles to momentous achievements. The individual chosen represents many others like them and has brought attention to subjects such as Asperger’s Syndrome, racism, poor body image, domestic violence, education, breast cancer awareness, and LGBTQ rights to name a few. The murals are done in charcoal, which will fade off the wall, adding a sense of urgency to “notice.” Notice the girl and what she values in herself, what makes her feel good about herself, before those things change or fade away. It is a temporary mural with a positive and permanent message. For Lori, her artwork is not only her passion but also her voice. She is driven to inspire people to recognize that no matter what, there is always something about them extraordinary and worth noticing. As a teenager Lori’s life was greatly affected when a teacher nominated her for The National Honor Society and let her read the nomination letter. The small act of someone taking notice had a great impact on her life. “Most girls and women compare themselves to unrealistic norms society has put into place. We strive for perfection, and live in a constant state of I’m not good enough”, says Pratico. Girl Noticed reminds us to pause, acknowledge and
appreciate others and ourselves.

Lori also has a piece on display in the Persistence IV Exhibition.

www.girlnoticed.org