For those of us fortunate enough to call ourselves ‘artists’ the importance of ‘giving back’ is quite obvious to me. Each time we create a piece of artwork (no matter what that might be) we have given ourselves to the viewing world. We have shared a vision and brought beauty into this world.
Artists give back by teaching others the skills that they have learned. It is true that not all good artists make good teachers but even the simple act of offering a critique to a fellow artist counts.
Six years ago the Main Street Artists Gallery & Studio was founded. We are now a thriving group of eighteen members who in addition to sharing our knowledge with our fellow members also share deep friendships and the desire to give back to our community. For three years we went as a group to Hope Lodge to cook dinner for the residents there that were away from home getting treatment for cancer at Strong Memorial Hospital. It was a very fulfilling act and we met many wonderful people.
This year we have decided to direct our ‘giving back’ to the Boys and Girls Club of Rochester. Rather than buy gifts for one another this past holiday season we opted to pool our money and buy much needed art supplies for the Boys and Girls Club newly renovated art room. Their art director, Sarah, is a highly motivated and energetic young woman. She wished to allow the kids the ability to enter the Boys and Girls Club National Art Exhibition but to do that they need to have an art exhibit on public display. We could help them with that as well!
In March, along with the help of the Rochester Art Club, the Boys and Girls Club of Rochester will have an art exhibit in the Rochester Art Club’s studio space #437-439 at the Hungerford, 1115 E Main St, Rochester 14609. Their opening reception will take place on First Friday, March 4th 6-9pm. We hope there will be much support for these kids. The exhibit will also be open to the public on Second Saturday, March 12th 10am-3pm.
When you are here be sure to go across the hall and visit the studio of the Main Street Artists. We will be donating the proceeds of sales of certain paintings to the Boys and Girls Club. This is your chance to bring home a piece of art and support a great cause at the same time!
Please join us in the joy of giving back and show these budding artists your support in March!
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