HOPE International Art Auction

Calling all artists! HOPE International is in need of your paintings and other 2D or 3D media representing the theme “Finding Dignity and Beauty in the Midst of Poverty.”

HOPE invites amateur and professional artists alike to submit their high-quality, original art pieces for consideration for a benefit art auction that will raise money to provide microloans for hardworking entrepreneurs around the world who have been trapped in poverty. Pieces should be internationally-themed and representative of either HOPE’s clients or the countries where they reside.

Interested artists should first submit a completed participation form to HOPE International no later than April 15. Participation forms are available for download at www.hopeinternational.org. All original artwork should be prepared for presentation and sale and cannot be returned to the artists. Artists will receive exposure on HOPE’s website and in promotional materials for The Art of Giving. Works will be auctioned online and at a one-day art exhibition to be held June 5 in Lancaster, PA. Submissions will be accepted through May 1. Participation forms and artwork can be submitted to HOPE International, 227 Granite Run Drive, Suite 250, Lancaster, PA 17601.

For more information, visit www.hopeinternational.org. With questions, please email Lauren at lfischer@hopeinternational.org or call 717.464.3220 x140.

Winter eNewsletter

My Winter eNewsletter is out now and you can view it here. Just click on the below image and it will open in a new window. You may need to zoom in to read the text.

To sign up to be on the mailing list, visit this link.

Banners at Lancaster Museum of Art

I was delighted to be asked to design the Lancaster Museum of Art's outdoor banners this month. The challenge was fitting three exhibits on one banner, but with a banner of that size, it was no problem. The next time you drive by, make sure you stop in and see their next set of excellent exhibits. They're always guaranteed to inspire you.

Mural at HOPE International Office

Today I got to break out the paint brushes again and help out HOPE International by painting a scripture verse at the entrance of their corporate offices. I think it turned out pretty cool! If you've never heard of HOPE before, I highly suggest checking them out. It's an amazing Christian faith-based, non-profit organization focused on alleviating physical and spiritual poverty through microenterprise development.

From their website:
HOPE practices a holistic approach to poverty alleviation. Microcredit and basic business training enable individuals to build businesses and break free from physical poverty. Clients find that their increased income enables them to provide more nutritious and regular meals as well as improved housing and education for their children. But HOPE isn't only concerned with physical poverty. Christ-following loan officers share the hope of the Gospel in the context of relationships, ministering to spiritual poverty as well.

Art Show Tonight at Square One Coffee

I've very excited about this show tonight, not only because it shows off some great handmade pieces by fantastic local artists, but I put up my first baby painting I've done since being pregnant. Not sure why, but it's been harder than usual to get myself to paint these last few months, but I'm glad I finally made myself do it. I found an awesome quote to use on it too, so get the kleenex now.

First Friday Exhibition this Weekend

For the month of February I'll be displaying my latest paintings alongside of fellow Lancaster Indie Art artists for an exhibit with fiber art pieces, handmade journals, original acrylic paintings, photographs and scratchboard etchings. All artwork has been inspired by Habitat for Humanity's vision to eliminate substandard housing and provide hardworking families with the opportunity to own a decent, affordable home. Up to 100% of all art proceeds, as well as $1 of every pound of "House Blend" coffee sold will be given to the Lancaster Area Habitat for Humanity.

The art will be available for purchase February 6-26 at Square One Coffee, with a special First Friday Show this week, February 6 from 6-9pm. All artists will be at the opening, so make sure you stop by this weekend and say hi!

Click images to enlarge flyers.