Selling stuff is happening now because some people might want to buy an artwork and space issues are arising. Those are two reasons for putting a price on the art. More important it might help me link my own 'dreamscapes' to the real issues that inspire change.
The India Ink paintings are a series that began in India. After retiring in June 2011, Paul and I , went to India and volunteered with the non-violent people's movement Ekta Parishad. Various inspiring volunteer assignments came our way and it was a privilege to learn from this remarkable organization. We spent two weeks in Sheopur, Madya Pradesh at the Kasturba Gandhi Ashram giving workshops and teaching. The girls at this ashram are Adivasai - tribal and only have access to three years of education - grades 6,7, and 8 with the support of Ekta. Any sales of the black and white paintings will go towards educating young girls from the Saharia tribe in India.
From my acrylic paintings I will be donating a portion to Shannen's Dream. Shannen Koostachin of Attawapiskat First Nation was a young woman who dedicated her efforts to convince the Canadian government of her dream - that FIrst Nations children and youth should have access to safe school and culturally based education.
I had the chance to teach 'Expressing Aboriginal Cultures' in my Grade 9 art classes. I was also fortunate to work with Moses Beaver in our Aboriginal Artist in the classroom program at Bishop Smith C.H.S. His work has been an inspiration. When I asked Moses if using black outline was appropriation of the Eastern Woodlands style he said, ' artists learn from one another'. Thanks, Moses, and hoping for a visit soon.