Second annual Tista Creative Arts Exhibit held at Tuscan Café

WARWICK - On Friday evening, April 29, the Tuscan Café on South St. in the Village of Warwick hosted the second annual Tista Creative Arts Exhibit. The event was held in memory of Daniel Rocco Battista, the son of Rocco and Judy Battista, who died on April 26, 2008 at age 20. “The Tista Memorial Creative Arts Exhibit,” said Judy Battista, “is a project of love that gathers different artists in creative media. It celebrates the many talents of Daniel. He loved music, art, poetry, mechanics, cooking, sports, writing, dance, skateboarding, trumpet, and singing and was so talented in all he did.” The exhibit is designed to pay tribute to him in many ways. All art done by his friends is inspired by aspects of their friendship. A mannequin, for example, was a project of six friends who each took a section and made it into a work of art. “They artistically created the mannequin as a totem pole of Dan’s friendship with them,” said Battista. “The wings signified the angel and the skateboards, the trumpet, the sushi sticks and even his glasses as well as the amazing individual poems, writings, and messages were everything that Dan meant to them. The mannequin and the skateboard have become the symbol of the Tista art exhibit.” Other works of art on display had a significant meaning to the artist. “It may be dedicated to a special loved one or represent a milestone or a learning in the journey,” said Battista. “But all follow the significant theme of the exhibit.” During the evening some of the works were part of a silent auction, but most were for exhibit only. “The 'angel arts,’ for example,” said Battista, “were done by other talented artists, including Dan, who are angels in Heaven. Art is a beautiful way to express emotion of love, grief, joy, happiness, and remembering our loved ones. As we celebrate life, Heaven and earth become one.” In addition to Dan Battista, the “angel” artists, those who have died, included Scott Driscoll, Derrell Sterling Milligan, Casey Allen Luffman and Kim Sue Stambaugh. During the evening performing musical guests were Christian music guitarist Kyle Hancharick, Vinny Vera, Max Kofi and Carol Diorio. Judy Battista also introduced Eric Fierstein, 11, winner of the Danny Battista St. Stephen’s - St. Edward’s Educational Trust Fund Music Scholarship. The exhibit will continue through the month of May. All proceeds benefit the “Tista 4 Life” Memorial Fund, which was established to aide in creating awareness about suicide prevention through education, support systems, mental health wellness programs, and community outreach. The St. Stephen’s - St. Edward’s Educational Trust administers the Danny Battista Trumpet Music scholarship fund. Contributions are tax deductible. For additional information contact the Battista Family at 987-4207 or 325-5517.