Want to help VisArts thrive?

You can! Just help us raise $500 for VisArts' Vibrancy Fund.

VisArts is a nonprofit organization that's near and dear to our hearts. Matthew and Jonah loved VisArts' studio classes and summer camp, and Matthew was a gallery intern last summer. Craig and I enjoy the free gallery exhibitions. And until July, Elizabeth was employed by VisArts as Director of Individual Philanthropy - but the pandemic resulted in significant budget cuts, so she's on contract for the Vibrancy Fund campaign (yes, she's running the campaign - and we're also donating to it. 

Throughout the past months of stay-at-home orders, masking, and social distancing, art has continued to inspire us. Art connects us with performers sharing health guidelines and messages of hope, neighbors singing to each other on balconies, visual artists creating works of art in public spaces, and musicians performing concerts online.

But the creation of art comes at a cost, and the cost for arts organizations like VisArts has never been higher. The pandemic has decimated revenue streams, plunging many arts organizations into uncertainty and financial loss. 

While the fiscal impact on VisArts has been profound, we're happy to report that VisArts has survived by being nimble, determined, and responsive in designing virtual and socially distanced opportunities to create and connect. 

VisArts also owes a huge debt of gratitude to generous donors and federal, state, and local funding organizations that have kept VisArts afloat. VisArts wouldn’t be here today without them.

Financially, the worst may be yet to come. Many government programs have run out of money or are in jeopardy. Private donors are reining in their spending due to economic hardship or insecurity.

Throughout history, civilizations in crisis have healed through art. Art sustains our spirit and helps us find firm footing – something we all need at this time. VisArts is here to stay, but we urgently need your support from #GivingTuesday through December 31 so VisArts can continue offering the programs and events so many love. 

We know that you may also be facing financial challenges, and we're especially grateful for your support. While the near future is uncertain, we believe that together, VisArts will not only survive -- it will thrive!

We're hoping that you'll donate to VisArts' Vibrancy Fund this December. Your monthly or one-time gift of any amount -- $5, $10 or $15 donations add up! -- will help VisArts:

• Provide scholarships so that programs are accessible for all, regardless of ability to pay
• Act on the pledge to work for social justice through gallery, education, camp, and community outreach programming
• Keep the galleries free to the public and provide stipends to exhibiting artists
• Continue the work of VisAbility Art Lab, which provides studio space and workforce development for artists with disabilities

With your support, VisArts can continue to live up to its mission to transform individuals and communities through the visual arts. 

Thanks so much for making these transformations possible.

Love,

Elizabeth & Craig