Art For Food

Auction extended- tell your friends!

2008-09-15T09:30:00.000-07:00

Folks- I do not want to have to figure out what to do with this amazing art- please bid. We will extend bidding for another week at least.
Yours in art,
LB

Update on bidding

2008-09-06T22:51:00.001-07:00

1. I took all the dollar values off the items. I don't want to scare folks off from bidding- we do want to be able to donate as much money as possible, so do be generous if you can.

2. We don't want to have to figure out what to do with anything that doesn't get bidded on, so come on folks, let's bid!

3. If you are posting anonomously, please leave your name, so we can know who you are. An email would be handy too, so we can let you know if you are the highest bidder on an item.

4. If you are not sure how to bid, and feel you really need help, email me at artforfood@gmail.com, and tell me what you want to bid on, and I can bid for you.

Yours in art,
LB

New items up!

2008-08-29T10:40:00.000-07:00

Okay. To my knowledge, all items are now up! Bid away, and remember that with every item you bid on, you are not only getting your Christmas shopping done early, but you are helping to fight hunger, one piece of art at a time.
Yours in art,
LB

Lemondrop's Joyride

2008-08-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

Oh will I envy the person who wins this! Lemondrop is the wonderful creation of Tami. This print is one of my faves, and would make a wonderful gift for a favorite toddler.

Flying Lessons

2008-08-29T10:29:00.000-07:00

These came in the mail yesterday! The colors are so rich and vibrant. This print would be lovely in a nursery (or my studio. Kidding. Maybe.) You can see more by this artist, Tami, here, and http://www.101fairylane.com/. I have to say, Lemondrop (the little fairy being swung in the print) is a family fave.

Beautiful Beady bookmarks

2008-08-29T10:26:00.000-07:00

Here is a fun, inexpensive stocking stuffer idea. Wonderfully simple and elegant bookmarks. I am fortunate to have been gifted one of these by the artist- it makes taking out that hardcover book to read each night a special experience.

These are all made by Anonnymouse.

ORange bead w/ gold sunflower

2008-08-29T10:25:00.000-07:00

This is such a cheery bookmark! A bright and clear orange bead with a gold sunflower charm.

Amethyst/ silver space needle bookmark

2008-08-29T10:24:00.001-07:00

This silver bookmark features an amethyst bead and a space needle charm.

purple crystal with silver space needle

2008-08-29T10:22:00.000-07:00

Purple and clear crystals with a silver space needle charm.

Gold filigree bead bookmark

2008-08-29T10:20:00.000-07:00

Carnelian-colored beads with gold filigree bead in the center. Lovely!

space needle w/green beads bookmark

2008-08-29T10:18:00.000-07:00

Green crystals, a tiny pearl, and a gold space needle charm.

Round blue green beads w/space needle bookmark

2008-08-29T10:16:00.000-07:00

Beautiful blue green stones and a space needle charm on this gold bookmark.

silver cross bookmark

2008-08-29T10:14:00.000-07:00

I keep finding favorites! This bookmark has a beautiful clear and silver dichroic bead, some crystal and silver beads, and an openwork cross. Gorgeous!

Pink heart & clubs bookmark

2008-08-29T09:57:00.000-07:00

This bookmark is very cute! Two silver golf clubs dangle beneath a pink glass heart. Are there any golfers in your life? This would make a fabulous stocking stuffer.

Blue-green fish w/ sand dollar bookmark

2008-08-29T09:49:00.000-07:00

This is the last bookmark, and is my favorite. Bookmark is gold, with a blue-green fish bead, and a silver sand dollar charm.

Let the bidding begin!

2008-08-27T23:12:00.000-07:00

Okay. I have almost all of the items up on the blog- believe it or not, Blogger says I have posted enough for tonight- they got a bit freaked out at me writing 71 posts in one day! I have one more category (beautiful beaded bookmarks) to post tomorrow, in addition to trying to figure out approximate values of these pieces. I will add them first thing tomorrow.

Bidding how-to's:
1. Look at all the luscious art so many wonderfully creative folks donated to our auction. You can click on the photos to enlarge them.
2. Make a list of people you want to buy Christmas gifts for.
3. When you see the perfect gift for your perfect someone (yourself included, of course), enter your bid in the comments section.
4. It was tough for me to decide whether to add values for pieces or not- some have them, some don't. Remember that the goal here is to raise a heap of money that will go towards fighting hunger. Be as generous as you can. The values are approximate- use them as a guide only.
5. I will post anything else I remember in the morning. I am off to rest now. For now, just enjoy looking and bidding.

Yours in art,
LB

Murphee the cat painting

2008-08-27T23:06:00.000-07:00

Here is a sweet little (measures 6 x 6 inches)acrylic painting done by one of my favorite blogging artists, Terri at StegArt. This little painting is bright and cheery, and it would be a wonderfully sweet gift for any cat-lover on your Christmas list. Value of $25.

Leaning left oil painting

2008-08-27T23:02:00.000-07:00

This oil painting measures 6 x 12 inches, and is mounted on artist-quality canvas. The artist, Melody Johnson is one of my favorite daily painters. Do check out her blog- you will fall in love with her work. And now is your chance to own one of her fabulous paintings! I can tell the bidding will be high on this one!

Frozen in time photograph

2008-08-27T22:59:00.000-07:00

Artist: Mama Podkayne

Little feet photograph

2008-08-27T22:57:00.000-07:00

This piece measures 11 x 14 inches, and is comes matted. Aren't those little feet adorable?
Artist: Mama Podkayne

Paintbrush in hand photograph

2008-08-27T22:49:00.000-07:00

I love this photograph. It is simple in composition, and I love the clean lines. The purple paintbrush just makes me happy. This piece measures 11 x 14 inches, including the mat.
Artist: Mama Podkayne

Quilted wall hanging

2008-08-27T22:42:00.000-07:00

The back is almost as pretty as the front. See the convenient hanging loops?

Isn't this gorgeous? The piecing is impeccable, the stitches perfectly straight, and the fabric selection divine. The quote reads, "Praise Him sun and moon; praise Him shining stars. Psalm 148. The quilt measures approximately 18 inches square.
Artist: Anonnymouse

Amusing Ride photograph

2008-08-27T22:36:00.000-07:00

This one is amazing! The colors are so bright, and I love the composition. This one measures 11 x 13 inches, and is mounted on a lightweight gatorboard. Check out the artist: Evie at eviecurley.etsy.com

Round mosaic mirror

2008-08-27T22:33:00.000-07:00

Ooohhh, look at the rich colors of this mosaic mirror. This one is approximately 12 inches in diameter. The artist is Becky at PetCloud.

Watercolor tulips

2008-08-27T22:28:00.000-07:00

I adore watercolor paintings, and this one is no exception. I love the bright liveliness of the flowers. This is not matted, and measures 9 x 12 inches. Beautiful!
Artist: Bonnie Tunney

Lilly pad photograph

2008-08-27T22:26:00.000-07:00

This is another favorite of mine, and was a prize-winner at the local county fair!
Artist: Pamela Gee-Oliver

Statues shadowbox art

2008-08-27T22:21:00.000-07:00

Close-up: Do you not just want to reach out and touch those faces?

This piece is so very hard to describe, and do justice to. It is a shadowbox photo- A photo taken in China, the artist layered parts of the photo on top of each other, creating much depth and interest when you look at the piece. That combined with the composition of the piece makes a very dramatic statement.

Artist: Crissy Trewin

Funky chicken

2008-08-27T22:17:00.000-07:00

This piece is so very unique! It is fabric collage, accented with tons of beautiful beads, ribbons, and the works. it is mounted on fabric-covered board, and has a wonderful hanging cord.
Artist: Cindy at elegantrelics.

Frog collage

2008-08-27T22:12:00.000-07:00

This piece measures approximately 15 x 22 inches, is mounted on gatorboard, and is ready to frame how you wish. Artist: Needleroozer, at TurtleWorks.

Prayer Loops

2008-08-27T21:55:00.000-07:00

Whether you call them Prayer Loops, or Chaplets, or Pocket Rosaries, you will appreciate the beauty of this next group of pieces. They can be used at Roman Catholic chaplets or to pray the Rosary, but non-Catholics also find them helpful as a physical reminder to keep their attention on their prayers.

You can look online for Prayer Rope, Chaplet, Bracelet Rosary and Episcopal Rosary to find prayers that people say with these in their hands, or people can identify 10 things they want to pray for--the world, the leaders, the poor, those in need, the sick, the dying, parents, children, family, friends, etc.,and then use these to keep their minds on their prayers.

They are very beautiful, functional pieces, and were all made by Anonnymouse. Enjoy!

Amethyst /silver with tiny cross

2008-08-27T21:53:00.000-07:00

This prayer loop has amethyst beads set in silver, with a very dainty cross.

Prayer loop w/ amethyst beads

2008-08-27T21:51:00.000-07:00

This prayer loop is silver with beautiful amethyst beads.

Madonna and flowered cross prayer loop

2008-08-27T21:48:00.000-07:00

I *think* this stone is jasper- I will verify and update tomorrow. It has a gold flower-covered cross, and a sweet little Madonna medallion. I love this piece.

Prayer loop with feathery cross

2008-08-27T21:46:00.000-07:00

Beautiful reddish-brown (carnelian-colored) hexagon-shaped beads mixed with creamy white beads, and a sweet feathery cross.

Reddish brown beads with gold cross

2008-08-27T21:41:00.000-07:00

This one is so pretty- Richly colored beads- a dark, orangey red, accented with gold heart, and a feathery cross.

White beads, with Madonna and feathery cross

2008-08-27T21:38:00.000-07:00

These beads are a creamy white, accented with tiny pearls and clear crystals. The Madonna and feathery cross are gold.

Prayer loop w/ marbled red beads

2008-08-27T21:34:00.000-07:00

These round, flat beads are a soft, marbled red and white. The accent beads are gold.

Artist: Anonnymouse

Amethyst/silver prayer loop

2008-08-27T21:29:00.000-07:00

This prayer loop is silver with amethyst beads, and a smaller, feathery cross. There is a small medallion with a sweet Madonna.

Prayer loop- agate w/ Madonna & feathery cross

2008-08-27T21:27:00.000-07:00

This agate fairly glows, and the Madonna rests in a heart. Lovely.

Prayer loop- Madonna/flower cross

2008-08-27T21:23:00.000-07:00

I was going got say this one was my favorite of the prayer loops, but they are all so beautiful, I can't pick a favorite. This one has a sweet Madonna, and a flower-covered cross.

Prayer loop

2008-08-27T20:57:00.000-07:00

This one is particularly beautiful. I *think* the stone is jasper- I will ask the artist and update soon.

Notecards

2008-08-27T20:55:00.000-07:00

I love it when artists make copies of their larger work, and put them on cards. It gives you a chance to own a piece of art that you may not have been able to afford otherwise. These would make lovely gifts, and would be perfect to have around when you want to drop a line to a dear friend or loved one.

notecard set #1

2008-08-27T20:52:00.000-07:00

I think these cards are very beautiful, but I might be a bit biased towards these cards, as my sister is the artist. These three sets are of 4 cards each, and they measure 5 x 7 inches.
Artist: Lee Anne Chandler

notecard #2

2008-08-27T20:48:00.000-07:00

Artist: Lee Anne Chandler

notecard set #3

2008-08-27T20:20:00.000-07:00

Artist: Lee Anne Chandler

Set of 6 notecards

2008-08-27T20:01:00.000-07:00

Here we have a set of six cards (they measure 4.25 x 5.5 inches) by Jenntle Wolfe designs. These are photos of her larger works, and are very detailed.

Jewlery

2008-08-27T19:46:00.000-07:00

Oky, let me show you some beautiful jewelry now.

Let's say the value on the earrings is $10. a pair, the necklaces are valued at between $30. and $50., and the bracelets at $30.

Let the bidding begin!

Yellow necklace

2008-08-27T19:44:00.000-07:00

This is such a fun one! Cheery yellow beads to brighten your day. You are sure to get lots of comments on this piece.
Artist: Sarah Damianick

Pale lavender/ blue crystal necklace

2008-08-27T19:33:00.000-07:00

These glass beads are the palest shade of lavender, with the bright blue crystals giving it some sparkle.
Artist: Sarah Damianick

Blue-green chain drops earrings

2008-08-27T19:31:00.000-07:00

Aren't these cute? If only my ears were pierced.
Artist: Sarah Damianick

Blue greenies earrings

2008-08-27T19:30:00.000-07:00

Artist: Sarah Damianick

Teal hoop earrings

2008-08-27T19:28:00.000-07:00

Artist: Sarah Damianick

Crystals and hearts necklace

2008-08-27T19:22:00.000-07:00

Isn't this lovely? I love the way the crystals catch the light. Here is a close-up so you can see the details.

Artist: Cindy @ elegantrelics

Blue/purple w/hearts earrings

2008-08-27T19:16:00.000-07:00

These dichroic beads shimmer- sometimes looking turquoise, sometimes a rich purple. Love the little hearts at the ends. Yummy!
Artist: Anonnymouse

Amethyst./silver bracelet

2008-08-27T19:11:00.000-07:00

This beautiful amethyst bracelet measures 7 inches from clasp to clasp.
Artist: Anonnymouse

Lvender crystal w/hearts earrings

2008-08-27T19:09:00.000-07:00

Artist: Anonnymouse

Black & white earrings

2008-08-27T19:07:00.000-07:00

Artist: Anonnymouse

Black Capped bead earrings

2008-08-27T19:05:00.000-07:00

Artist: Anonnymouse

Pearl/Blue Earrings

2008-08-27T18:59:00.000-07:00

Glasses lanyard

2008-08-27T18:47:00.000-07:00

This silvery eyeglass chain has beautiful purple beads, and delightful tiny pearls. If you have to wear reading glasses, you might as well wear them in style!
Artist: Anonnymouse

Art Cards

2008-08-27T18:32:00.000-07:00

Next you will see the results of the two painting/collage workshops I taught the last two weekends. The workshop participants varied greatly in age, and artistic ability. We celebrate the creative spirit they were able to unleash this weekend!

I only commented on art cards that were more 3 dimensional, but may not look like it in the photos.

All of the art cards are sized at 5 X 7 inches, and are mounted on black gatorboard, and ready to be framed (or not) as you wish. The artist's name is on the back of each card.

Dragonfly marsh art card

2008-08-27T18:31:00.000-07:00

This art card is very 3-D. It uses coarse garnet gel, and sculpted papers.

Rhinestone leaves art card

2008-08-27T18:30:00.001-07:00

Karma art card

2008-08-27T18:27:00.001-07:00

This art card has rhinestones attached.

Abstract arrow art card

2008-08-27T18:26:00.000-07:00

Holiday bash art card

2008-08-27T18:25:00.000-07:00

Christmas kisses art card

2008-08-27T18:24:00.001-07:00

Honeycomb floral art card

2008-08-27T18:23:00.000-07:00

Pink & green springs art card

2008-08-27T18:22:00.000-07:00

Big leaves art card

2008-08-27T18:21:00.000-07:00

Chasing dragonflies art card

2008-08-27T18:19:00.002-07:00

Space art card

2008-08-27T18:19:00.001-07:00

Snow art card

2008-08-27T18:04:00.001-07:00

Read art card

2008-08-27T18:03:00.001-07:00

Dots and shapes art card

2008-08-27T18:02:00.000-07:00

Floating Ginko art card

2008-08-27T18:01:00.001-07:00

Floating forms

2008-08-27T18:00:00.000-07:00

Patterns and flowers art card

2008-08-27T17:59:00.000-07:00

Jar of flowers art card

2008-08-27T17:58:00.000-07:00

Periwinkle flowers art card

2008-08-27T17:57:00.000-07:00

Yellow cat art card

2008-08-27T17:56:00.000-07:00

Etched dragonfly art card

2008-08-27T17:55:00.000-07:00

Mountain scene art card

2008-08-27T17:54:00.000-07:00

Tutu art card

2008-08-27T17:52:00.000-07:00

Flora art card

2008-08-27T17:51:00.000-07:00

Brown and Blue paisley art card

2008-08-27T17:49:00.000-07:00

Dragonfly art card

2008-08-27T17:39:00.000-07:00

The two dragonflies at the bottom of this card are made with gel medium, and are 3-D.

Auction begins tomorrow evening!

2008-08-26T09:18:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I will load all the art I have received into the trunk of my faithful car, and head over to our Art for Food photographer's studio. We will shoot all the art pieces, and then put the photos, and a description of each piece up here on the blog. The auction will begin Wed. evening, once all the photos are up.

Please spread the word to all you know that there is going to be some amazing art up for bidding! We would love to have every piece of art go to a good home, and be able to present the food bank with a big fat check when this is finished. I am not formally requesting a minimum bid of $50.00 per piece, but that is my goal.

So tune in tomorrow, and start bidding on the beautiful art, knowing you are fighting hunger, one piece of art at a time!
Yours in art,
LB

Workshop #2 report

2008-08-26T09:14:00.000-07:00

Well, we only had two participants, but it went really well. We made many art cards, and explored many different painting techniques. One of the participants came last week as well, so we worked on advanced techniques with her. It was really good! And, she is an event marketer, so I got all kinds of strategies for the next time I lead a workshop.
Yours in art,
LB

updates and workshop 1 report

2008-08-22T10:34:00.000-07:00

Workshop #1 Report:
Well, we had our first workshop last Saturday, and it was very fun. Four participants (including my daughter) engaged in cutting, pasting, gluing, painting, eating, and teasing- all the while exploring their creative side. A good time was had by all.

Workshop #2 Tomorrow:
We will be shoving all sorts of supplies and inspiration into the mini-can again today, getting ready for the second and last workshop of the summer '08 edition of Art for Food. I am hoping we have more participants, and do want to encourage you to join us if you are in the local area. Again, the Collage and Painting Workshop #2 is being held at the West Seattle Christian Church, begins at 10 am and goes till 3 pm, with a bring your own lunch break in the middle.

Traffic Update:
Good news! The Wilburton Tunnel removal project is finished early, so 405 Southbound will be open, and there will be no traffic issues to slow you down on Saturday!

Deadline for mailing art pieces for the auction:
The deadline for sending us your art pieces is fast approaching, but you do still have time. We will be photographing the pieces on August 27. I would guess the latest a piece could be overnighted and get to us before that time would be Monday the 25th of August. I will be updating the lists of participating artists on Monday to reflect the packages that have been arriving on my doorstep this week- send your art today, so we can add your name. You are some creative folks, and it has been fun to have a sneak peak at the art you will be bidding on soon!

Auction details:
Bidding will begin the evening of the 27th, as soon as the items are up on the blog, and will remain open until Friday Sept. 5th. Art will be mailed to the item winners by Sept. 9th. As I said above, so far, we have been blessed to receive some beautiful art pieces. We have quite a variety of things being donated- In addition to the 5 x 7 art cards from the workshops, we have everything from watercolor and oil paintings and quilts, to artisan soaps and jewelry. Pop on over on the evening of the 27th to see what just needs to come live in your home.

That's all the time I have for updates- need to get ready for tomorrow. Hope to see you there!

Yours in art,
LB

Less than 24 hours!

2008-08-15T09:23:00.000-07:00

Howdy Folks! I am oh so very busy getting ready for the workshop TOMORROW, but wanted to take a minute to update you on the project. I have some revised and current dates for you.

1. Last day to send art is August 22. We will be taking photos of the art on August 27th, so you have just one more week to mail your art. There is still time! Send your art, and tell your friends to send theirs!

2. The art pieces have been coming in! Wonderful, joyful art. I can't wait to show you photos of it all soon. Photos will be up on the 27th, and then bidding can start! We will have bidding open until Wed, Sept. 3rd. If you know any art collectors, send them here to look at the beautiful art.

Now, about the workshop tomorrow.

1. With registration happening at the door, I have no idea how many folks will show up tomorrow, but I am planning on 50. I have goody bags packed and ready, bought all the supplies today, and am now ready to go down and cut substrates, pack collage materials, etc. When my husband gets home, I will load up his van- we have a lot to haul.

2. I can't wait to share some painting and collage techniques tomorrow. I am off now to go get ready.
Yours in art,
LB

Look Who's Talking About Us!

2008-07-28T14:17:00.000-07:00

In my meanderings in the blogosphere, I read about Art for Food on one of my regular stops. Mama Podkayne is an amazing mama/teacher/artist lady, and I cannot say too many good things about her. She wrote about our project here.

Tami over at Lemon Tree Tales gave us a mention in this post. Tami illustrates beautiful fairies and lemonheads that delight me, and her quilts are fabulous.

Yours in art,
LB

Further Info on artist participation:

2008-07-09T15:58:00.000-07:00

1. To sign up, send me an email at artforfood@gmail.com or leave a comment here and I will keep post a link to your blog (if you have one) in the sidebar.

2. Let's have things mailed by August 10th. That give us time to photograph them and have them up a couple of weeks so all y'all can oogle them and know what you want to bid on.

3. Feel free to put a link here from your blog (I am working on a button), and promote the heck out of it. The more artists that participate the better. I once counted up that I visit over 700 blogs- with the blogosphere being so vast, it won't be hard to raise $10 thousand in no time! If my hero Virginia Spiegel can get us to do it for cancer, we can do it for hunger!

I am sure I will think of more later, but wanted to clarify a couple of things for folks. Thanks to the folks who have already promised a piece, and I can't wait to see all the amazing things y'all will do.

Yours in art,
LB

Traffic Alert for locals

2008-07-07T16:23:00.000-07:00

It has just been brought to our attention that I-405 is going to be closed both of the days of the workshops. Go here to see the details and to find alternate routes. Please do not let this stop you from participating.

Yours in art,
LB

Call to Artists

2008-07-07T10:15:00.000-07:00

Call to Artists!
Here is a wonderful way to support Art For Food, whether or not you are in the Seattle area, and clean out your studio at the same time! We are accepting art of all types to be auctioned off in an online auction August 30th. All proceeds go to the Food Bank at St. Mary's.

In the workshops, we will be creating art cards. These are very similar to art postcards, just a bit bigger. If you are unable to come to the workshops, you can still create an art card. These will be auctioned off for $50. each.

Do you paint or make quilts? Do you like to take photographs or make collages? Sculpt or build 3-d assemblages from found objects? If so, you can fight hunger while making art!

Here's how it will work:

1. The very simplest way to participate is to make an art card- similar to an art postcard, but with the dimensions of 5'X 7'. Anything goes here, as long as you can fit it in an envelope! We will post simple directions for creating an art card on the blog, later in the week.

2. Want to do something more? Look around your home, your studio, or your etsy shop- do you have a piece of art you have made that you could donate to our auction? If not, do you feel like making a little something you could donate? There isn't a theme, though if you need one, use "food". The only guideline on size or what to make is that is has to be able to be shipped easily.

2. I thought about restricting this project to North America only, but I think we can do this and still have our profits go to the Food Bank. So, if you are not in the US and really want to contribute a piece, go for it. If you want to buy a piece, email me and we can talk- maybe we can send it C.O.D.?

3.Mail your pieces to Art For Food by August 10th. We will take a digital photo of your piece, and post it on the Art for Food blog. There will be a category for art cards, and one for other pieces. Bidding will happen in the comments section. Be sure you either have a blog, or give us your email so we can notify you if you win an art card or piece.

4. Bidding will open on Monday, August 25th. Once the bidding closes on August 30th, we will determine the highest bid for each art piece and mail the piece to the winner. For the art cards, these will be available for $50. each. You will comment on the card you want. If more than one person wants the same card, we will open bidding on it.

5. Once bidding closes, we will determine the highest bidders on each piece. The winners names will be posted on each piece or card.

6. We will begin shipping of pieces to the winners on Monday, Sept. 1st.

If you have questions, email me for details, or ask in the comments section. Now go tell all your artist friends about this wonderful opportunity to make art matter in the fight against hunger, and then head to your studios and kitchen tables and make some art!

Yours in art,
LB

Workshop details

2008-07-07T10:03:00.001-07:00

Workshop info:
The dates for the workshop are August 16th, and August 23rd, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a break for lunch in the middle. Lunch is bring-your-own-brown-bag style.

The cost of the workshop is $5.00 per person, to be paid at the door. This goes to buy supplies for the event, and any profits will be donated to the Food Bank. We have tried to keep the cost low, and don't want money to be a reason to not attend. If money is tight, bring canned food to equal $5.00. If that isn't possible, come anyway.

Please wear old clothes, or bring an old t-shirt, apron, or other type of paint smock. We are going to be using artist-quality materials, and they will stain.

We will be learning basic collage skills, using a variety of papers and paints. Each participant will be creating a mimimum of two 5" x 7" art cards, suitable for framing. A minimimum of one art card will be donated to the Art For Food Auction.

Yours in art,
LB

Art for Food: What is this?

2008-07-01T16:52:00.000-07:00

Hello, and Welcome to the Art For Food blog. What is this about? Well, let me tell you.

I have been thinking lately that there are many things happening in the world right now that I wish I could change but have no control over. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized that maybe, just maybe, there were SOME areas in which I really COULD affect change.It seemed like I was seeing the Gandhi quote "You must be the change you wish to see in the world." everywhere and it was speaking to me. Real life-altering change. Maybe I could. I couldn't do it all by myself...... but what if I could enroll others in my community, or even BUILD a community that could do this with me. The more I thought, the more ideas I had. This blog will address two areas; people's relationship to art, and fighting hunger; and bringing them together to make a difference in the world.

Let's look at the hunger issue first. It is getting harder and harder for most folks to make a good wage in our current economy. The fact is, more and more families in the United States are really struggling financially, and are having to use their local food bank. Over the last 5 years, my children and I have volunteered at our local food bank, The Food Bank at St. Mary's. This amazingly well-run food bank which has been serving the community for over fifty years, is operated by staff and volunteers that really love what they do, who are committed to easing hunger, and who always have a ready smile. I have recently found out that the use of the food bank this year is up by 50% from last year. The funding however, isn't. Over 8, 000 people in the greater Seattle area are using the food bank, and it is getting harder for the food bank to provide the nutritious foods that it is so well-known for.

The second issue is more subtle. I have been focusing on my journey as an artist for the last three years, but in reality, I have wanted to be an artist my entire life. When I was as young as four years old, I knew that I wanted to create art that would speak to others. But as I grew up, I developed many a story about why I couldn't be an artist. These reasons and stories (I can't, I am not good enough, it doesn't pay well, insert your personal reason here) stopped me from making art for a very long time. I finally realized that when I am creating, I am a healthier, more well-adjusted human being. Art makes me happy, and is a wonderful stress-release. I am a better wife, mother, and human being when I have a creative outlet.

As I have been creating art and showing it to others, I have been receiving disturbing feedback from people. The most common response I get from folks is, "Oh- that is beautiful! But *I* could never do that! I am just not creative like you are.". Or how about my next favorite, "Wow, that is amazing, but *I* am not an artist.". The fact that many folks I meet think it takes special talent to create is frustrating to me. I want all people to experience creativity, in whatever they do. This got me to thinking...... could I somehow show people that art, and creativity itself, is a possibility for everyone? Could we use this to fight hunger somehow?

Thus the idea of Art For Food was born. The idea is quite simple. Hold workshops, wherein we show "regular folks" from all ages and walks of life how to do some simple collage and painting techniques, using artist-quality materials, and resulting in a 5"X 7" "art card". This beautiful piece of art can then be donated in an online auction to fight hunger by supporting the food bank. In addition to this, let's see how many creative folks with an online presence we can involve, by putting out a call to artists all over the internet world to join us by donating works of art for the auction.

So, you might be thinking, "Well that sounds cool, but why should I donate my time, money and art work to a food bank in another state?" The answer to that is simple. Hunger is everywhere. No effort to fight hunger is too small, or too far away from you. Just Google "hunger facts" and you can see for yourself. Those of you who think of yourselves as creative souls, or artists can surely see the benefit of gifting someone with the possibility of creativity.

If I have enrolled you in the idea of making art to fight hunger, there are several ways to get involved in this community project. These are general ideas- specific details will be included in an upcoming blog post.

1. If you are in the Seattle area, you can attend the workshops. The details will be posted in the next blog post, and dates will be available in the calendar in the sidebar.

2. If you are in the Seattle area, you can volunteer to support the workshop. I will be needing several folks to help in setting up, supporting the workshop itself, and cleanup.

3. Wherever you live, you can participate in this community project by making a 5 X 7 art card (similar to an art postcard but a tad bigger) using any media of your choice (paint, fabric, etc.), sticking it in an envelope, and mailing it to us to be included in the auction.

4. You can also send us another piece of art if you'd like, and we will include it in the auction. In this area, you are only limited by your imagination, and postal costs. Details to follow.

5. We are also looking for someone to host the online auction. This would involve having pieces of art mailed to you, taking photos of them and posting on the blog, and then hosting the auction.

6. I am sure there are other ways to help out if you are interested.

You can leave us a comment or email at us at artforfood@gmail.com for more information.

Now you know what we are up to. I really hope this sounds like an easy, yet creative way to change the world- one piece of art at a time.

Yours in art,
LB

Art For Food

Auction extended- tell your friends!

Update on bidding

New items up!

Lemondrop's Joyride

Flying Lessons

Beautiful Beady bookmarks

ORange bead w/ gold sunflower

Amethyst/ silver space needle bookmark

purple crystal with silver space needle

Gold filigree bead bookmark

space needle w/green beads bookmark

Round blue green beads w/space needle bookmark

silver cross bookmark

Pink heart & clubs bookmark

Blue-green fish w/ sand dollar bookmark

More items to be posted this evening

Let the bidding begin!

Murphee the cat painting

Leaning left oil painting

Frozen in time photograph

Little feet photograph

Paintbrush in hand photograph

Quilted wall hanging

Amusing Ride photograph

Round mosaic mirror

Watercolor tulips

Lilly pad photograph

Statues shadowbox art

Funky chicken

Frog collage

Prayer Loops

Amethyst /silver with tiny cross

Prayer loop w/ amethyst beads

Madonna and flowered cross prayer loop

Prayer loop with feathery cross

Reddish brown beads with gold cross

White beads, with Madonna and feathery cross

Prayer loop w/ marbled red beads

Amethyst/silver prayer loop

Prayer loop- agate w/ Madonna & feathery cross

Prayer loop- Madonna/flower cross

Prayer loop

Notecards

notecard set #1

notecard #2

notecard set #3

Set of 6 notecards

Jewlery

Yellow necklace

Pale lavender/ blue crystal necklace

Blue-green chain drops earrings

Blue greenies earrings

Teal hoop earrings

Crystals and hearts necklace

Blue/purple w/hearts earrings

Amethyst./silver bracelet

Lvender crystal w/hearts earrings

Black & white earrings

Black Capped bead earrings

Pearl/Blue Earrings

Glasses lanyard

Art Cards

Dragonfly marsh art card

Rhinestone leaves art card

Karma art card

Abstract arrow art card

Holiday bash art card

Christmas kisses art card

Honeycomb floral art card

Pink & green springs art card

Big leaves art card

Chasing dragonflies art card

Space art card

Snow art card

Read art card

Dots and shapes art card

Floating Ginko art card

Floating forms

Patterns and flowers art card