In 2021, I co-directed and curated an art show and fundraiser called Light Work, a group exhibition addressing physicality and shared physical space. It was one of Portland’s first arts events to follow the Covid-19 pandemic. Money was raised for Portland Public Schools and was made available for teachers to provide unique arts opportunities for underserved students.

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Over the last year and a half, school age children and adolescents everywhere lost crucial socialization, academic growth and exposure to new experiences, lessons and ideas. For some, art was an outlet and mental health resource through times of distance learning and isolation.

The artists who made the work on these walls know the importance of that incredible outlet. All were at one point students in an art class, and all have been empowered to use art to understand the world around them as adults.

Our celebrating being together wouldn’t be complete without an effort to make more shared art experiences possible for students in our community. Proceeds from this event will go towards a grant that PPS arts educators can put towards innovative learning opportunities, field trips, guest artist lectures, and unique material opportunities.

It is our hope that by providing funds for educational resources, we can promote creativity and strength to lean on when the going gets tough.