FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla – In the spirit of promoting originality, diversity and acceptance, ArtServe, South Florida’s award-winning non-profit arts service organization, hosted  “True Colors,” a multi-media art exhibition representing the theme of being both true to one’s self and respectful of individuals from all walks of life. 

Featuring more than 120 pieces of artwork, “‘True Colors’ really speaks to the times we live in,” said ArtServe President and CEO Jaye Abbate. “This bold exhibition explores the nature of identity and diversity along all spectrums, including thematic works on First Amendment rights, LGBTQ issues, race and ethnicity, women’s rights and more.”

“True Colors” kicked off with a free gallery reception featuring food, music and a traditional Mexican dance performance organized by Florida Day of the Dead founder and renowned puppeteer Jim Hammond. Many guests attended in Day of the Dead-inspired attire including colorful costumes and sugar skull makeup.

Also featured in “True Colors” is Lori Pratico, ArtServe’s artist-in-residence and founder of “Girl Noticed,” a nationwide charcoal mural project aimed at empowering women and giving value to girls by recognizing their potential. For this project, Pratico travels to every U.S. state to erect a series of large murals, each of which depicts a female in the community who deserves to be noticed.

“I notice. I notice it in the eyes of every woman and girl I meet. I notice it in the lines that have formed around their mouths, or how high they hold their head. This is what I wish to express in my portraits – the strength, courage and tenacity in every woman,” said Pratico.

ArtServe gallery hours are Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission to the gallery is free. For more information, call 954-462-8190, contact information@artserve.org, or visit www.ArtServe.org.