A piece of Marywood is making its way to First Friday Scranton.

The Marywood University Student Art Therapy Association (MUSATA) is holding a pop-up exhibition at the Leonard Theater on Nov. 2.

First Friday Scranton is a free art walk in downtown Scranton that gives artists the opportunity to showcase their work and also serves as a means of revival through art for the downtown area.

Although the art therapy program has held shows in the past, this Friday marks its debut at First Friday. It is expected to be the first of many appearances Marywood’s art therapy program makes at the event, but visitors can expect something different every time.

The show, titled “Forward Toward Growth,” will offer visitors introspection through art, which will come in the forms of weaving, ceramics, jewelry and digital media, along with traditional paintings and more. Many of the pieces are inspired by the concept of growth and healing for individuals.

President of MUSATA and Graduate Art Therapy Student Jenna Edmonds said she believes the event can used as a way to spread awareness about what art therapy actually is.

“I think it’s a really great opportunity to show the community not only what art therapy really is, but also how it works at Marywood and who the students actually are,” said Edmonds. “It is great for the community, but on the flip side, it’s also great professional experience for the members of MUSATA to be able to organize a show and see what goes into it.”

Graduate Art Therapy Student Juliette Meyers touched on the importance of art therapy students having the ability to display their work in public.

“I think too that our field exists because we are artists, so being able to have the opportunity to show for ourselves is a little bit different than working with a client and it keeps our field going,” said Meyers.

Visitors interested in purchasing artwork will find a selection of pieces up for sale. Along with the artwork, visitors can also expect food, wine and music from Marywood’s Tutti Ensemble.

“Forward Through Growth” is being held one night only this Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. on the basement floor of the Leonard Theater, 335 Adams Ave. in Scranton.

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