Art can be theraputic, both for the creator and for the viewer -- especially when the former is an inmate. The incarcerated individuals who have works in the Insider Art exhibition gained a positive outlet of self-expression, and also are providing people with a different perception of those in prison. Check out the listings here for more details about Insider Art and other exhibits opening this weekend.
Belas Artes 2010 African World Festival: Colors of Africa art exhibit coincides with month-long celebration of African music, film, dance and workshops. Saturdays. Continues through July 31, free. Belas Artes Multicultural Center & Art Gallery, 1854 Russell Blvd., St. Louis, 314-772-2787, www.belas-artes.net.
Go With the Flow: Photography by Greg Matchick. Matchick uses water as inspiration for his photographs. Opening reception from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 30. Wednesdays-Sundays. Continues through Aug. 28, free. Gateway Gallery, 7921 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314-503-3880, www.gatewaygalleryonline.com.
Insider Art: Exhibition of work created by prison inmates; proceeds from sale of art goes to Inside Dharma, a group that aids inmates and those recently released from jail. Opening reception from 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday, July 30. July 30-Sept. 26, free. Subterranean Books, 6275 Delmar Blvd., University City, 314-862-6100, www.subbooks.com.
Noah Kirby: Killbox: Installation inspired by small-squad tactical maneuvers and close-quarters battle techniques. Opening reception from 6 to 10 p.m. on Friday, July 30. Fridays, Saturdays. Continues through Aug. 28, free admission. Good Citizen Gallery, 2247 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, 314-348-4587, www.goodcitizenstl.com.
One Man, One Show, One Night: A solo painting exhibition by St. Louis artist Ron Young. Sat., July 31, 6-10 p.m., free admission, www.fabulousartbymeronyoung.com. New Halls Ferry Plaza, 12761 New Halls Ferry Rd., Florissant.
Perspective: A Photography Exhibit: Group show featuring work by Caleb Charland, Greg Kluempers, Ariana Bauer, Jane Linders and others. Opening reception from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 31, with complimentary wine-tasting and hors d'oeuvres. Starting July 31, Mondays-Saturdays. Continues through Aug. 28, free admission. The Vino Gallery, 4701 McPherson Ave., St. Louis, 314-932-5665, www.thevinogallery.com.
Sweeter Than Honey Hotter Than African Sun: Dance performance by Afriky Lolo founder Diadie Bathily and Cote d'Ivoire dancer Rokia Ouattara closes out Belas Artes African World Festival. Sat., July 31, 8 p.m., free. Belas Artes Multicultural Center & Art Gallery, 1854 Russell Blvd., St. Louis, 314-772-2787, www.belas-artes.net.
Tom Hunt: European Scenes: Paintings of Europe. Artist's reception from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 30. July 30-Aug. 27, free admission. Grafica Contemporary Fine Art, 7884 Big Bend Boulevard, Webster Groves, 314-961-4020.
