Flushing Y’s family affair

Usually, the opening of an art exhibit conjures up images of black-clad urban sophisticates devouring brie and Chablis. At the Flushing YMCA however, their art exhibit is a family affair.
The long-running exhibit, which opened on Thursday, May 22, is called “All Kinds of Families” and the proceeds from the eventual sale of the works will benefit the “YMCA Strong Kids Campaign.”
Exhibit Curator, Cynthia Strunsky McLean explained the focus of the exhibit. “Families come in many varieties and sizes and we showcase that variety in our works.”
Subjects vary from traditional mother-and-child subjects to “Buddies,” by Anki King. There are water colors, pastels and oils. The works are beautifully displayed in the central stairwell and hallway of the Flushing Y, located at 138-46 Northern Boulevard.
The variety carried over to the attendees, from State Assemblymember Ellen Young, who observed “that each family is uniquely special in its own way,” to teenagers working toward their GED at the Y’s educational program.
“We want our neighbors in the community to know about the more welcoming and inviting environment here at the Y,” said Flushing Executive Director William Nelson. “The exhibits will be changed from time to time, and the next group will be featuring local artists. If they contact us, we’ll put them in touch with (the curator).”
Though she currently lives and works in Manhattan, McLean explained, “Sixty years ago, my own family moved to Flushing. I was raised right here, and was thrilled to participate in this.”
Linda Marr, an assistant vice president with sponsor New York Community Bancorp, commented, “We’re honored to participate in the exhibit and the Strong Kids Campaign. Everyone involved here is just wonderful.”
The campaign makes YMCA programs and membership available to those in need.
In addition to the long-familiar residence rooms (127 in Flushing, recently refurbished) and swimming pool (with a newly-renovated ladies locker room), the Y is focusing on “Family Nights” and other activities for family groups.
For more information, please call the Flushing Y at 718-961-6880 or visit their web site at www.ymcanyc.org/flushing.