In the Pink Kicks Off October 2

A unique and enduring alliance between creativity and breast cancer awareness kicks off in early October when the 8th Annual In the Pink art extravaganza opens with a public reception October 2.

Billed as a celebration of “Women’s Strength, Beauty and Healing,” the opening reception will be held October 2, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Garde Arts Center, 325 State Street. In the Pink will continue with varying art exhibits at 10 area galleries throughout October, which is also National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The In the Pink event is sponsored by the Breast Health Task Force of Southeastern Connecticut, a collaboration between Lawrence + Memorial Hospital, Ledge Light Health District, breast cancer survivors and other local providers.

In the Pink’s main focus has always been to raise awareness about breast health and the importance of early detection in fighting breast cancer, says Diane Pezzolesi, an employee of L+M Hospital and a co-chairperson of the event.

“Over the years, it has been our goal that local communities and their leaders will become increasingly active in promoting the importance of breast health and early detection of breast cancer,” Pezzolesi says. “In the Pink is a unique regional art celebration that serves to promote the key message that early detection can help to reduce breast cancer mortality.”

The opening reception at the Garde will feature remarks on cancer prevention, treatment and early detection from three L+M physicians: Dr. Vanessa Johnson, oncolology; Dr. Brenda Koblick, radiology, and Dr. Elizabeth Arguelles, a surgeon and medical director of L+M’s new Breast Health Center, which L+M is forming to provide comprehensive care to women with breast health issues.

The reception will also feature a photography exhibit by Kristen Jensen that focuses on breast cancer survivors, and a performance by the Tsetse Gallery Performers. The reception is free and open to the public.

Other galleries that will be featuring In the Pink exhibits throughout October include: the Norwich Arts Center; the Gallery at Wauregan, Norwich; Gallery at Firehouse Square, New London; Studio 33, New London; Studio M, Mystic; Mystic Art Center (Art after Dark); Noank Foundry Artist Studios, Noank; Seasonal Home, Gales Ferry; Six Summit Gallery, Ivoryton, and also the Waterford Library.

The public is encouraged to contact specific galleries for openings and exhibit times.

All participating galleries have agreed to donate a percentage of sales during the shows to the Terri Brodeur Breast Cancer Research Foundation or the new L+M Cancer Center.