“An art show is like a big rock concert only flip flopped where the music enhances the visual presentation…” In the ever changing kaleidoscope of the art world, things like color, creativity and medium fit together into one vision. This is the eye of the artist. Limitation free and positively spirited, Bili Kribbs breathes life to the Massillon art scene. Graduating from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh in 1998, Bili decided to change his hometown of Massillon instead of joining well established art communities on the coasts. “Why go to New York or LA and be one of many?” he asks. In a town ordinarily known for football, Bili is at the forefront for organizing a revolution; challenging young and old to redefine what it means to live in Midwest small town America. Rules fly out the window while opportunity floats back in. From paintings to his uniquely sculpted playful creatures, Bili’s best may be in his promoting. Not only is he putting himself out there as an artist, he is also networking a coalition of communities. For example, last year Bili and the Ananda Center teamed up to put on monthly shows in normally empty storefronts featuring a Massillon artist, food from local vendors and entertainment from local musicians – they called it Art Displaced. Currently he is pushing forward the idea of a Massillon Art District downtown. And have you seen the newly decorated trash cans in downtown Massillon yet? They were all painted by local artists to beautify the community. Thank Mr. Kribbs for that one. “Imagine anything you like, put it in visual form, that’s art… T-shirts, album covers, ads in magazines… art is everywhere, and it’s time to own it!” – Bili Kribbs