Paint Love
I realize I have spoken to many of you and even advertised about the Paint Love campaign, but I have yet to put words down to fully express my passion for this etheral idea labled "Paint Love." Etheral because it is still fragile and delicate as to what it may become, but also as if it is not of this world, simply an idea haunting my artistic filled dreams.
My desire is for Paint Love to become a movement using art as a way of changing young people's lives forever. Together we can paint love in a child's life by giving them confidence, creative outlets, new skills, alternative activities, and most importantly a reminder they are loved, unique, and full of potential.
Why use art?
In short, because I'm an artist. Haha! Art strikes a cord within me and I am passionate about its benefits for so many. It doesn't have to be painting--it can be poetry, spoken words, dancing, or music.
Art is for all people. Rich people, poor people, young people, old people. (Though I will begin by focusing on youth, mostly girls.) Art touches people in unique ways. It heals, it speaks, it gives words to the speechless, and entertainment to the motionless. It has been said the eyes are the gateway to the soul.
What we see, can forever drastically change our lives, and I believe if we can be a part of creating something beautiful we too can change into something beautiful.
Change happens when joy creeps on a little boy's face when he learns the beat of a song with his hands. He creates music. He learns rhythm. Beautiful things can happen.
A middle school girl finishes a painting and can't wait to take a picture of it, share it with friends, and show her mom. She is beaming and compliments her own work. She gains confidence. She learns boldness. Beautiful things can happen.
Why "Paint"?
To paint means to cover. I want to cover those we are helping with love, not just dab or splash, or stroke them, but douse them with love. I want to completely paint over them with the love so many of us are eager to give.
I want to show action in everything we do. Donate canvases, give painting lessons, share stories, give a hug, provide words of encouragement. The word paint denotes action on our part to make an impressional difference in the lives of our youth.
Why "Love"?
I thought hard about calling this "Painting a Difference" or "Paint Change." In the end I believe we are called first and foremost to love. I cannot make anyone an incredible artist, or an incredible person, but I can love them unconditionally for exactly who they are, regardless of what they have done or will someday achieve.
If we are going to paint (cover) our youth with something powerful, it is not going to be change. It is going to be love.
And to love means to unselfishly sacrifice for the good of another. So, if you are willing and would like to Paint Love in your community, join us as we pour out love to young girls with the powerful gift of art.
Next Steps
I am looking for artists, for donors, for small groups, individuals, and clients.
- Artists/Crafty Ladies: If you would like to donate your time teaching art (in any form) to a group of deserving young women, let me know.
- Donations: We are taking canvases, brushes, paints, supplies, and easels for girls.
- Clients: Purchase a Paint Love T-shirt and a canvas will be donated to girls in need.
- Anyone: You do not have to be a part of this campaign to Paint Love. There are ways you can pour out love on people everyday.
In the end, I ask that you SHARE this with those you know to encourage them to PAINT LOVE to those around them and if they would like, to join me as I begin to paint love to girls in the Atlanta community.
With love, Julie Ann