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Musician new library artist-in-residence

Staff Report //June 11, 2019//

Musician new library artist-in-residence

Staff Report //June 11, 2019//

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S.C. musician Ara-Viktoria McKinney is the new artist-in-residence at the Richland County Library. She will hold weekly office hours at the library’s main Assembly Street branch to answer questions and share knowledge.

McKinney, known as Ara-V, is a singer, songwriter, actress, director and poet. Her 19-year career dates back to a childhood singing in church, and she is currently working on her third album while performing with her band, the Ara-V Collective.

“My main joy is helping people find their own true voice and style… and teaching them how to present it to the public,” Ara-V said in a news release from the library. 

Ara-V will also coordinate with an arts librarian to offer a variety of programs for all ages, including vocal lessons and songwriting workshops. She plans to feature participants’ work in a summer showcase, according to the release.

Ara-V’s residency extends through Sept. 6.

Developed in September 2016, the library’s artist-in-residence aims to connect the community with local, working artists and provide creative and educational opportunities.

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