LEWISTON — Tree Street Youth, in collaboration with Union of Maine Visual Artists-Lewiston Auburn, is now accepting original artwork in connection with Tree Street Youth’s annual fundraising event: “I am Tree.” For the past seven years, the accessibility of Tree Street programs has enabled local youth to hope, dream and rise up to any occasion possible. For that reason, the youth chose this year’s theme to be “I Am The Future.” As our youth grow and develop into tomorrow’s leaders, we are filled with hope for their futures, for the future of our community, and for the future of Maine.

New for “I am Tree” this year is a silent auction of local artist and youth art. We ask that entrants submit a piece of art (in any medium) interpreting the “I am the Future,” theme. The theme is open to the interpretation of the artist and may touch on areas such as unity across lines of difference, aspirations, leadership, connection to the community and resilience.

Artists’ work will be on display at the “I am Tree” fundraiser at Bates Mill Atrium on April 26 — attended by 250 people

 Artists may submit up to 4 jpg images with title, artist’s name, medium and dimensions to UMVALewistonAuburn@gmail.com attention I am Tree, by Thursday, April 5 at 5 p.m.. Accepted works will receive an email on Friday, April 6. Drop off of work will be April 9 to through 12. 

If and entrant’s artwork is accepted, they and their guest will receive complimentary tickets. Please review the artist agreement that can be downloaded at treestreetyouth.org.