Adoption art exhibit takes 'A Closer Look'

By Paul Henderson Lansing State Journal LANSING (AP) -- When 15-year-old Tristin of Grand Rapids created his artwork, he had one thing in mind. "I wanted people to get a picture of me and to know what I look like and who I am," Tristin said. "They have an idea of what kind of person I am just by looking at the pictures." Tristin, who now is in placement housing, and eight other foster kids created artwork reflecting who they are and what they feel Sunday afternoon. at the Absolute Gallery in Old Town in Lansing. The "A Closer Look at Me," gallery was part of St. Vincent Catholic Charities adoption event. Whitney Banks, a recruiter for Wendy's Wonderful Kids in part with St. Vincent Catholic Charities, said the idea for the event came to her while she was on a date at the Blues Festival in Old Town. "One of my (foster) kids would always draw things for me," Banks said. "If he couldn't tell me what was going on with him, he would draw them." Banks then asked around the art galleries in Old Town and asked if they featured any children's art. She was pointed to the Absolute Gallery and, after explaining her ideas, the gallery agreed to sign on. Banks held the first adoption art event in May. "I think the kids were more nervous than I probably was," Banks said. "It's great for them (children) just to experience and get out into the community to spread this awareness because I always say 'you are the actual voice of adoption.'" Banks decided to hold another event this month because November is national adoption month. Tristin, who wants to go to college for computer aided design to create video games, had a lot of fun creating his artwork. "(I liked) spending time with Whitney (Banks) and getting to know people." Tristin said. Banks said no children have been adopted from the two events so far, but there have been inquiries. "These young people are just so phenomenal," Banks said. "Just take a chance and get to know who they are and if you feel that connection with them, see that connection out or at least try to see it out." "(Getting adopted) is the number one thing on my list," Tristin said. Banks plans to hold another event in May. Published: Wed, Dec 26, 2012