Blooms and Blossoms, our latest Art at Argo’s exhibit will arrive July 8th to the showroom. The works are by local artist, Leslie Laufman and the mood is dream worthy florals – soft and ethereal. Leslie was introduced to us by way of an Argo & Lehne customer and we can’t be more thrilled by the introduction. Not only are her paintings breathtaking but so is her dedication to our community through the music and education of local non-profit, CityMusic Columbus. For every painting sold a portion of the proceeds will benefit CityMusic.
Leslie, a retired hemotologist in the Columbus area practiced for over 30 years and found her most indelible career moments were with outreach projects throughout our community. I suppose some things don’t change. She has been a strong supporter of CityMusic Columbus, which offers children a variety of music classes and experiences in the Columbus area. Another constant in Leslie’s life has been her art. Forever dabbling in watercolor and taking classes periodically throughout the years she is now solely focused on her art and the non-profit. She is a member of the Central Ohio Watercolor Society and you can find Leslie showcasing her watercolors at many local art festivals.
City Music
CityMusic understands music enhances learning, literacy, enrichment, spirituality and creativity. Their programming features music lessons and experiences for children who may not have access to them otherwise. They are committed to identifying and helping children who are at risk for harm or loss in the course of their mental, physical and social development. Many studies document that participation in music performance, either solo or in groups, not only enhances reading skills and socialization, but can also bridge development gaps for troubled children, and can help them to resolve social or behavioral problems.
CityMusic has partnered with, Central Ohio Music Therapy, which provides musicians, teachers and music therapists who develop curricula and who are trained to work with troubled children and adolescents. Together, CityMusic and Central Ohio Music Therapy offer the following programs, which will expand rapidly, as they achieve new funding:
- Toddlers – we provide music experiences at HeadStart and in public libraries. Sprouting Melodies is an award-winning early childhood music program. It is the only early childhood music program created by music therapists and offered through board certified music therapists who complete the early childhood training. Sprouting Melodies offers a distinctly different, research-based approach to infant and toddler music classes. Classes include songs, instrument play and movement that encourage musical, social, physical, and emotional growth and development.
- School age children – we sponsor guitar lessons, provide practice guitars, and places for practice. Children who demonstrate skill, aptitude and responsibility in the care of their loaned guitar will be eligible to receive their own guitar.
- Preteens and teens – we underwrite guitar lessons and singer-songwriter programs. Teen Songwriting Labs provide a creative outlet for teens to improve self-expression, decrease stress and anxiety, and work on team-building skills.
Artist Opening
July 15, 1-3 pm meet artist, Leslie Laufman in our showroom where she will be discussing her works and CityMusic while we clink champagne flutes for this budding artist who brings so much to our community.
Blooms and Blossoms -a floral watercolor exhibit at Argo & Lehne Jewelers on display from July 8 – October 14. Visit our Art at Argo’s Fine Art Collection to see Leslie’s exhibit online.
How to Connect
Leslie Laufman – website, Facebook, Instagram, or email, leslielaufman@gmail.com
CityMusic – website, Facebook, Instagram, or email, info@citymusiccolumbus.org