I want to thank everyone for their outpouring of kindness and support. It is now the time for us to try and establish some lasting good from the cards that we have been dealt.
It is our goal to create a charitable fund at the RI Foundation in Jeanne's name that will make an annual grant to benefit art education forever as part of a permanent endowment.
This organization manages over $500 million in similar funds and seem to be a great fit to help us in our efforts. ALL proceeds from the sale of Jeanne's work will be contributed to this fund. It is our goal to create a fund that is greater than $25,000. If we achieve this goal, the fund will be able to contribute around $1000 per year indefinitely, to the chosen recipients.
I am going to ask everyone that receives this update to do three things:
- Write between a sentence and a paragraph on what art meant to Jeanne, based on your personal memories.
- Email me any pictures that you have of Jeanne or Jeanne's work
- Forward me the email and contact information of anyone that can or would help us in our efforts.
At this point, we have a commitment from PeaceLoveSudios in Pawtucket to hold a month long show of Jeanne's work with an opening on May 5, 2011. PeaceLoveStudios is dedicated to using the power of the arts to enrich the lives of individuals coping with mental illness. Paint4Peace teaches art as a way to inspire, motivate, and build self-confidence through creativity, artistic expression, and a message of hope. I think that Jeanne would have been proud to work with this organization.
Additionally, I had a short conversation with Burt Crenca from AS220 and he has indicated that he is willing to discuss a hanging a grouping of paintings at AS220 on Empire St in Providence with info regarding the opening and the fund.
I am open to any and all suggestions with regard to how to proceed and how to generate money to benefit this fund.
Please call me or email at your convenience.
God bless,
John Risica
john@welovelofts.com
401-439-3634
