NORTH FORK, NY — The spotlight will soon shine on young local artists at Aldo’s Coffee Company in Greenport.
The Center for Advocacy, Support and Transformation, or CAST, has announced a partnership with Aldo’s through its arts and culture program to celebrate the artists through a multi-mural showcase taking place during the 2024 summer season.
The call for submissions, inspired by the theme “Coffee and Community”, asks for students in grades 5 to 12 to draw what could eventually become one of two large murals to be created on the walls of Aldo’s, CAST said.
Each piece of art is not only meant to highlight Aldo’s products but showcase the commitment to creative arts, community youth and partnership, a release added.
“Partnering with Aldo’s Coffee Company on this mural art project allows us to uplift the voices of underserved children in our community by giving them a platform to showcase their talent. This project exemplifies CAST’s commitment to nurturing creativity and supporting the arts as a vital part of our comprehensive services to those in need. Our collaboration with community partners like Aldo’s is essential in making these initiatives successful and ensuring that we can continue to provide meaningful opportunities and support to our community,” said Cathy Demeroto, executive director of CAST.
One mural will sit on the exterior of the building facing Mitchell Park, while the other will be created inside the shop; a third submission will be brought to life as the new welcome sign greeting guests upon entry, CAST said.
“We’re incredibly excited to see how the young artists in our community interpret the theme of ‘Coffee and Community.’ This partnership with CAST allows us to celebrate local talent while enhancing our space with their creativity. It’s a wonderful way to bring people together and support the arts,” Josh Sommer, co-owner of Aldo’s Coffee Company said.
After more than three decades, longtime owner of Aldo’s, Aldo Maiorana, retired last year and sold the business.
After the first round of submissions, three students will be selected to move forward for a second round, deciding final placement. The murals will be painted throughout the month of July and into early August, both onsite and at CAST headquarters, organizers of the initiative said.
Winners will be announced in July, with all participants receiving a complimentary summer drink ticket and invitation to join a Gelato Party in August showcasing the art and celebrating all students involved.
