Art Exhibition

"Without Miguel de Cervantes the Iberian Peninsula would have been a house without a roof"

Nobel Laureate Jose Saramago

Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote, considered by literary historians to be one of the most important books of all time. His novel had long lasting widespread influence on many other artists and writers as well as cultural traditions. The analogy and reason to understand the benefits of art is not always apparent or immediate but exploring art is to unleash imagination, empathy and a sense of wonder. The Barrington community is making an effort to engage and inspire by bringing many art forms to the public. Of course all these programs become possible because of the deep commitment of its local volunteers.

An example of its support is the thriving Barrington chess program that was born and nurtured here thanks to the many hundreds of community volunteers. Inspired by adult volunteers for the last 21 years over 100 youth have served as volunteers. This has promoted learning, philanthropy and artistic collaboration with its community. One such collaboration was the Mort Luby Art Exhibition held on July 17th 2022 at The Barrington White House. Mort Luby is a prolific, award winning artist who has donated his time and opened his home to advance artistic and social causes. In December last year he helped Chess Without Borders raise funds for ex prisoners and their families host a Christmas meal and in February this year he helped raise funds for Barrington High School team to compete at the National Chess Tournament in Nashville.

The event at the Barrington White House was a remarkable success as it brought the community together, highlighting the work of artists and showcasing 25 oil and watercolor paintings by Mort Luby. Barrington High School senior, James Zhang was an incredible volunteer as he came in early, organised the event, welcomed guests and kept accounts on the sales of the paintings. Both James Zhang and Anthony Zhu from Barrington High School marketed the event on social media and worked towards making sure every detail was addressed. The "Fascinating Rhythm Aces" band was a welcome addition to this event as they serenaded guests at the entrance of the Barrington White House.

Thanks to the important role as examples played by adult volunteers such as Bob Lee who spent precious time photographing the event youth feel inspired and enthusiastically keep the tradition of service learning alive.

The town of Barrington feels more complete "like a house with a very good roof" introducing art and the joy of service learning to its youth.

Chess Without Borders also presented Richard Seigler, CEO of the nonprofit Bulamu Health Care with a check of $250 from a portion of the proceeds of the chess camp held at BHS.

On September 10th at Grove Avenue Elementary School, Chess Without Borders will host a chess tournament where all proceeds from the tournament will benefit a local charity.

For more information on participating at any level please email chesswob@gmail.com