“Over the years, I’ve periodically found myself in situations that felt desperate and, in those moments, I’d feel that I needed to make certain things.” -David Wojnarowicz
Greetings from Los Angeles.
I keep trying to write this newsletter, but I don't know where to begin. The world feels, the world is very heavy right now. Like many of you, my heart and mind are in different places. There are days when I have to remember that art is my compass. It guides me and has helped me navigate throughout my life. I hope that you also find some light in the creative process.
I've shared some links on social media about how to help artists whose work has been disrupted by emergencies and disasters. Some excellent resources to donate to (as well as apply for if you need help):
CERF-Book artists, craft artists, etc… whose work and livelihood have been affected can apply for a three thousand dollar emergency grant. They also have additional resources on their site. They are one of the BEST sites to donate to as well as to apply to if you are an artist in need of help.
If you know of any additional resources for artists that you'd recommend, please leave them in the comments.
It's hard to want to advertise your own offerings now, but I have to remind myself that I am very much a working artist…
If you're looking for a creative outlet, I have a new painted sunflower workshop coming up on the 19th. It's discounted through Noon PDT this Monday. I'm head over heels in love with this workshop which emphasizes play and discovery over a finished product. You can register here.
I know that the world is hurting right now. People are spread thin and have far too much on their plates. If art is your light, embrace it. Grab a pencil or crayon and make some marks. Think about the feeling you get when creating and hold onto that. Five minutes of mark making, a pencil and found paper can do wonders for our mental health. If you don’t have the energy for even this, look to other artists. Sometimes just filling your well with the work of other artists is enough.
Thank you for reading this,
Kelly
“Art is not just to show life as it is, but to show life as it should be.” Paul Robeson