KIDS & FAMILIES

Spectacular inflatable art sculptures by Giants in the City, an outdoor graffiti garden, where visitors can stencil or paint on a special wall with artist Atomik, silk screening with Squeegee Science, dance and musical performances and puppet shows are just some of the festivities that will celebrate the spectacular grand opening weekend of Young At Art Museum and Broward County Library on Saturday, May 5 and Sunday, May 6 from noon to 6 p.m. Located at 751 S.W. 121 Ave. in Davie, the new museum will usher in a new era of arts education for families and visitors to Broward County.

There will be special appearances by artists whose works are showcased throughout the museum including Pablo Cano, Edouard Duval Carrie, Leonel Matheu and artist-in-residence Chisseko Kondowe.

"We are unveiling an exciting newera in arts education and entertainment,

building on Young At Art's 22 years of creative educational experiences," said Young At Art Executive Director and CEO Mindy Shrago. "The opening of our fabulous new permanent home is testament to the steadfast support of our community and governmental and corporate partners who understand the importance of art and creative thinking and the positive impact it has on our children and families."

Young At Art offers four permanent, themed galleries: GreenScapes, which encourages children and adults to reconnect with nature by discovering the potential of art to call attention to environmental issues; CultureScapes, which celebrates and brings new understanding of our culturally diverse world through the eyes and art of contemporary artists; WonderScapes, a world of imagery dedicated to childhood development through art, literacy and play; and ArtScapes, which provides a thematic journey of art history where art crosses time, place and culture.

Visitors also will enjoy the unique YAA Institute, Showcased-Artist Studios/Installations, a National Traveling Exhibition Gallery, a Teen Center and Recording Studio, a Museum Gift Shop, the Toss Up Salads Café and a 10,000-square-foot Broward County Library.

Free offsite parking with courtesy will shuttles to Young At Art will be available on both days at Robbins Park, 4005 Hiatus Road in Davie (2 1/2 miles south of I-595 on the west side).