provided to The Santiva Chronicle
EDITOR’S NOTE: This story has been updated to reflect an extension to the artist application deadline from June 15 to June 30.
This year’s art-focused fundraiser by Community Housing & Resources (CHR) will honor the 50th anniversary of Sanibel as well as the artists who channel the island’s creative spirit.
Give Your Art To CHR will put paintings and drawings from 25 artists on public display throughout Sanibel and Captiva Islands later this year. Those works will be auctioned at a gala event to raise vital funds for the local nonprofit.
“We’re eager to see how these talented artists portray the unique energy and essence of this special community,” said CHR Executive Director Nicole McHale. “This year marks the 45th anniversary of CHR, so we are doubly excited to celebrate this outstanding project with everyone.”
This is the latest in a series of public art projects sponsored annually by CHR. Last year’s effort, Give Your HEART To CHR, featured 15 heart-shaped sculptures donated by 16 artists. Those sculptures, too, were auctioned to support CHR.
According to Shelley Greggs, Chair of Give Your Art To CHR, artists of all levels of experience and disciplines are welcome to apply. They must be 18 years of age or older. Artists must submit a bio and photo, three photographs of previous artwork, and a description of their proposed art for the project. Paintings and drawings will be accepted, and CHR will provide canvases and boards. The application and other details are online at sancapchr.org.
Application deadline is June 30 at 11:59 p.m. The 25 artists will be chosen by Aug. 1, and artwork is due on Sept. 30. Public displays will run from early November through the holiday season. The gala event and auction will take place in Feb. 1, 2025.
“The most exciting part is seeing these incredible works on public display throughout our community,” Greggs said. “Sponsoring businesses will host artwork, giving residents the chance to experience this amazing talent while celebrating a milestone in Sanibel’s story.”
The City of Sanibel was incorporated in November 1974 following a grassroots effort to save the island from overdevelopment. The city is celebrating this golden anniversary throughout 2024, including spotlighting its model Sanibel Plan that emphasizes the natural attributes of the island.
McHale said Give Your Art to CHR is the nonprofit’s most important fundraiser.
“Our mission of providing affordable places to live for people who work in and serve Sanibel depends on the generosity of artists and residents who take part in this project,” she said. “It’s especially important as we continue to recover from Hurricane Ian, including our plan to build a new Riverview facility.
“All of us at CHR, along with the people we serve, are grateful for this caring community,” McHale added.
Learn more about CHR at sancapchr.org.
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