Students around campus this week may have noticed tie-dye signs that said, “Wait for it,” with a time taped below. Anyone who was in the area at the time listed became an audience member for performers from Queens arts programs.
These performances, called “artbursts,” was the kick-off for the Festival of the Arts at Queens. Julie Funderburk, director of The Arts at Queens, said this is the second year they have sponsored this event on campus.

Dylan Gilbert and Stuart Collins play guitar in the Coffee House
“We’ve been planning some of the details since January,” Funderburk said in an email. “However, many of our short performances are not intended to be highly polished presentations but rather a chance to be energetic and informal and take risks.”

Kate Guidry plays the ukulele on the Lion’s Den patio

Jimmie Chavis, Erikka Hanright and Dylan Gilbert perform in the Coffee House
Florencia Rusinol, junior:“I loved doing artbursts because each time we went out and played, you could really see how much joy it brought to everyone. That joy is why I believe that the arts are so important. Besides all the cognitively stimulating effects music has that I learn about through music therapy, it can bring joy and creativity to anyone’s life.”

Jacklyn Pfuhl, Kayla Kreidl and Kenesha Raeford dance in Diana Courtyard

Matrisha Stafford, Florencia Rusinol and Rachel Stewart perform in Trexler Courtyard
The Festival of the Arts at Queens began March 20 with the opening of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Arts events on campus will continue through April 24.
“The arts are for everyone and the arts are everywhere,” said Funderburk in an email. “Our intention is that Artburst reflects this and inspires creativity, which is a vital component of the intellect. Regardless of a student’s major or career ambitions, the arts are enriching. “
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