Droppin’ Jewels PKX Arts and Film Festival
Poughkeepsie, NY (February 28, 2024) – The Art Effect proudly announces the highly anticipated annual PKX Arts and Film Festival, themed “Droppin’ Jewels,” set to take place from April 18-20, 2024. The festival aims to celebrate the richness of Poughkeepsie’s community, highlighting its assets, heroes, and the intergenerational creative energy that defines the city. Throughout the free, 3-day festival, families, friends, and the community will participate in family-friendly art and media activities, teen art exhibition opening reception, short-film screenings, food trucks, vendors, and more. All components of the festival are free and open to the public.
Droppin’ Jewels’ is more than just a festival; it’s a testament to the spirit of Poughkeepsie and its youth. This year’s theme emphasizes the valuable gems found within the community – the nameless heroes, families, and friends who contribute to the city’s greatness for present and future generations. The festival serves as a jewel mine, unearthing the creative and collaborative energy fostered through generations.
The festival will kick off on Thursday, April 18 at 6 PM at the Trolley Barn Gallery, 489 Main Street in Poughkeepsie with the opening of the PKX Art Exhibition, inviting the public to enjoy the artwork from youth around the country and light refreshments. At 7:15 PM, the Trolley Barn Gallery will host a Pop-Up Fashion Show showcasing the talents of local youth.
On Friday, April 19 at 6:30 PM the film festival kicks off with incredible short films produced by youth from around the country, as well as from the City of Poughkeepsie. Following the showcase, Poughkeepsie youth who participated in The Art Effect’s winter break workforce training intensive with featured artist Hezues R., filmmaker and media entrepreneur and Poughkeepsie High School alumnus, will debut their collaborative film, The Last String. The evening will culminate with an awards presentation and Q&A with the youth filmmakers.
On Saturday, April 20th, the festivities begin at 2 PM with many community partners including Brain and Body Coalition, Celebrating the African Spirit, Charlia Frank, Fall Kill Creative Works, Family Services, The Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center, Poughkeepsie High School Art Club, Poughkeepsie Farm Project, Poughkeepsie Open Studios, Pershing King Organics, and even more offering family friendly activities! Plus, festival attendees will enjoy food trucks, music, demos, performances, and a public art sculpture unveiling. The Art Effect’s MADLab Youth Artists will delve into the ideas behind their sculpture at 4:15 PM.
At the heart of this celebration is the Youth Arts Empowerment Zone (YAEZ), an initiative centered in and around The Art Effect’s Trolley Barn Gallery. The PKX Festival is important in advancing YAEZ’s mission of fostering youth-driven place-keeping through artistic expression. YAEZ empowers youth to shape their community and preserve its essence.
More than just an event, the PKX Festival embodies the essence of community and unity while celebrating the diverse talents of Poughkeepsie. It is a tribute to the collaborative efforts of youth and organizers alike, aiming to create an inclusive and inspiring experience for everyone. Learn more & get real-time updates at thearteffect.org/tae-events/pkx.
About the theme’s inspiration:
The upcoming PKX Festival, with the theme “Droppin’ Jewels,” is an embodiment of the influence of Keli Faircloth’s grandmother. As an active participant in various programs at The Art Effect, Keli has been an important member of the PKX Festival Committee and the Youth Curatorial Team. Inspired by her grandmother’s wisdom, found in the phrase, “Child, I just dropped some jewels on you,” Keli has evolved into a knowledge keeper, sharing her wisdom with those around her.
This personal connection increases the significance of the festival theme, “Droppin’ Jewels,” as it becomes a celebration of Poughkeepsie’s creative energy across generations. As we anticipate the PKX festival, Keli’s familial influence will be infused in the event with a spirit of wisdom, creativity, and community empowerment.
PKX Teen Art Exhibition, Thursday, April 18 from 6-8 PM:
The 3rd Annual PKX Festival presents the International PKX Art Exhibition, opening its doors on April 18th. The International PKX Art Exhibition serves as a platform for young artists to display their creativity from around the globe. This exhibition is a tribute to the extraordinary artistic talents of teenagers aged 14-19.
PKX Film Showcase, Friday, April 19 from 6-9 PM:
The International PKX Short Film Festival is a captivating showcase featuring high quality short films produced by youth from countries including Portugal, Hong Kong, Singapore, Spain, and Japan. This event, taking place on April 19th at the Annual PKX Festival, is a great opportunity to experience talented young filmmakers’ creativity and storytelling skills.
