A local artistic vision along with the help of young students are turning empty store front windows into artwork.

Local artist Mark Soppeland began installing the elements for his Downtown Akron window display titled "Visions of Innovation and Invention."

"I'm hoping it inspires people," said Soppeland. 

His favorite pieces of artwork in his display are the ones made by children because he believes it offers a unique perspective and inspires others to achieve the best they can. Soppeland says it took hundreds of hours to complete all of the artwork that will be placed in the windows.

Soppeland's display will be featured on Main Street near the Akron Civic Theatre at First Night Akron along with additional interactive window displays created by local artist Julie Hogarth.

In one of the displays, residents can interact with the artwork by taking pictures using their phones and finding a hidden message related to the history of Akron.

The project was put in place to beautify the downtown Akron neighborhood through artwork and the creativity of the community.

The three displays have been created in collaboration with Akron Public Schools After School Program, The National Inventor's Hall of Fame School Center for STEM Learning, community members and the Downtown Akron Partnership.

The 16th Annual First Night Akron will take place Saturday, December 31 from 6 p.m. to midnight.

More information can be found at www.firstnightakron.org.