Buffalo Rising Online

Sep 1st, 9:58am By BRO Reader Submission

Submission by Lukia Costello who recently exhibited her work at the I Shot Lucy show.

I am an artist, and I understand how tiresome it is to be asked to donate your work. When we artists donate, we are really donating three times: with our materials; with our time and inspiration; and with our finished piece. Most times, beyond the gratification that comes with doing something kind and good, there is little in return with respect to exposure for our art. I have donated many, many times, so I know.

I have a different kind of opportunity for you. Please consider submitting work for the Family Justice Center 's (FJC) A New stART art auction. Instructions and an easy online submission form may be found at www.anewstartbuffalo.com.

When I entered into this collaboration of the FJC and Artspace Buffalo, I had artists in mind. I want you to get as much out of your donation as possible. That's why I worked out a 50/50 split with the FJC and determined that this auction and art show should involve a jury process. We've kept the submission fee low at $20 for up to three pieces of work and made the process simple by creating it online.

If you are accepted for A New stART, you will be promoted in the media (via news releases, email newsletters, promotional materials, etc.), and you will have an image and a short bio published in the event program. We are expecting 300 guests at the 10/28 event at Asbury Hall.

Your work (whether it is sold or not) will hang for six months at the FJC where it will be seen by everyone who comes through the Center's doors, including public officials and business and industry leaders. Tour guides will make sure to mention your work and will distribute flyers with your contact information. The FJC is also planning to host periodic "meet the artist" events.

Unfortunately, domestic violence is pervasive in our community. I have a handful of close friends who experienced abuse as children, and I see the impact on their lives into adulthood. I'm sure that you know who have been touched by domestic violence as well.

The FJC provides one location for victims to come to get all the services they need to begin healing. Social workers, police, prosecutors, nurses, legal staff – all under one roof. All committed to creating hope and rebuilding families.

In donating a piece of artwork to A New stART, you are:

- Providing inspiring and beautiful artwork that will help to raise the spirits of Family Justice Center clients, who are victims of domestic violence

- Helping fund the Family Justice Center and all the good it does

- Exposing your artwork to hundreds of Western New Yorkers who come to the FJC each month, including public officials and business and industry leaders.