WASHINGTON, DC.- The Second Annual International Arts Expo will be held at the Washington, D.C. Convention Center from September 19 – September 21, 2008. A percentage of the event's proceeds will go to supporting Life Pieces to Masterpieces, a nonprofit dedicated to assisting and inspiring young black men in the Washington, DC area through art. Other beneficiaries include Howard University's Armor J. Blackburn University Center Director Discretionary Fund and the Washington Project for the Arts.

The expo includes new artists from a variety of backgrounds with collections that range from folk art to modern art. Daily entertainment will include receptions, seminars, live music and contests.

"The International Arts Expo is the perfect venue for artists to display their work in the nation's capital," said founder and artist Lisa Jones. "From budding artists to world-renowned painters, sculptors, and musicians, the Expo offers a forum for all artists to participate. This is sure to be a fantastic event for artists and art enthusiasts alike."

The artists participating in the Expo even include three professional football players. Surprisingly, these athletes have traded in their pigskins for paint brushes. In the off-season, Kris Jenkins, co-founder of the Expo, dedicates his time to assisting underprivileged, inner-city children through Life Pieces to Masterpieces.

"I believe that with a little support from the community the young black men from Life Pieces to Masterpieces will be inspired through art," said Kris Jenkins, New York Jets football player. "This is my way of giving back to the community that supported me throughout my athletic career."

"If I could give just a fraction of the support I received when I was growing up, then I know I'll be doing a great service," added Jenkins.

On Friday, September 19th from 6 – 10pm, there will be an unveiling hosted by Andrea Roane, an anchor on CBS News, to meet and greet with the artists and enjoy champagne and hors d'oeuvres. This event is sponsored by Howard University.

On Saturday, from 10am to 9pm, and Sunday, from 12 – 6pm, the expo will be held along with seminars and live performances. Some of Saturday's proceeds will go to the Washington Project for the Arts, an organization whose mission is to promote excellence in contemporary art. There is also a VIP event titled "Intimate Evening of Arts" with special guests on Saturday night.