Each year, the Memphis Child Advocacy Center has a wonderful Valentine’s fundraiser called “Works of Heart.” It’s a juried show and each artist is given a wooden heart to turn into an original work of art. It’s pretty cool because these works are made specifically for the show. You can’t get much more unique than that. And generally, since it’s an auction, you get to buy great art for a great price. I love that it happens at Valentine’s Day. It’s a great way to honor love.
The Memphis Child Advocacy Center is dear to my heart, since I grew up in a fractured family in Memphis and witnessed many of the harsh realities children face in our society. The MCAC has helped heal many children’s hearts and minds. They keep child safety at the forefront of Memphis political and cultural dialog. I lived most of my life in Memphis, so while I love my home in Portland, Oregon, Memphis owns a large piece of my heart.
Here’s the MCAC mission statement:
“Helping victims become children again. That’s why we’re here.
The mission of the Memphis Child Advocacy Center is to serve children who are victims of sexual and severe physical abuse through prevention, education and intervention.
Our vision is a community where children are safe, families are strong and victims become children again.”
I love that – they do a great job. One of the charming and insightful things they do is give each child who comes through the center a new teddy bear. A soft, touchable gift — a toy that lets them know they are loved and valued by the community.
I’ve been fortunate enough to donate art work to this event several times. Here are two of my past Works of Heart.
It’s been several years since I’ve been able to contribute, but this year, I’m in. I just started this new piece. I have this great wood pattern print fabric. I may make the doll’s heart from this lovely silk butterfly brocade. I have some ideas of spring and renewal being rooted in the heart. I’ve been pondering these things during the past chaotic month of moving, holidays and other art deadlines.
I have the week-end dedicated to this piece. I have made some plans but I’ll be letting the piece speak to me as I work on it. It will be all hand-stitched and crafted from an original design. I thought I’d post the beginnings and make some regular posts on its progress over the next few days.
For more information on the 19th Annual Works of Heart Auction, please follow this link. You can also explore the website for more information on the Memphis Child Advocacy Center.
http://www.memphiscac.org/worksOfHeart.aspx
And do something nice for a child this Valentine’s day!
joy murray art~stories~life 