Calling all artists. 

The Cranston School Department is once again hosting its popular, annual ArtsFest with a month-long exhibit at the Cranston Public Library’s central branch on Sockanosset Cross Road.  Every grade in the school district is represented in the exhibit which features artwork in a wide variety of mediums.

The opening reception was held last Wednesday, as in years past, it was crowded with students, teachers and parents who were admiring the artwork and encouraging the young artists.   

“I love this (event) because it shows how art should be supported,” said Angie Bailey, who along with her husband Collin, were there to celebrate her daughter, Lena.  Lena, an eighth grader at Hope Highlands middle school participated in the ArtsFest show with an orange-toned, monochromatic self-portrait.  She wants to be an artist and plans on continuing her studies when she enters high school next year.  “I want her to do what she loves,” her mother said.

The Arts Fest exhibit will run through March 30 at the library.