SOURCE : ARTLIFTING
When Artlifting was founded back in 2013, siblings + co-founders, Liz + Spencer Powers had 4 local Boston artists. No one could have guessed how far their dream to empower others would go. ArtLifting now works with 130 artists in 20 states, to connect those living with homelessness + disability nationwide.
Art is one of the most simple + personal ways to make a home. It’s amazing to see companies, as well as organizations, like Artlifting, who emphasize where pieces are coming from, and the story behind them. I love that we are seeing a shift, where consumers are interested in where the things they buy, are coming from, and how they are making an impact in some way. Thanks to co-founder, Liz Powers, it’s possible to collect beautiful pieces that are also making a real difference in our communities.
SOURCE : ARTLIFTING
As a social worker, running art groups, Liz discovered that there were quality pieces being thrown out or stored + forgotten. With existing shelters + disability centers in place, the artists already had the supplies + work, but were in need of a platform to sell + market. The solution became Artlifting, which provides artists with 55% of the profit (1% from each sale goes to a fund, which provides art supplies to art groups
nationwide; and ArtLifting uses the remaining 44% to further their mission).
“I knew the talent was there as well as the willingness to work and produce artwork, the only thing missing was a platform to elevate these talents. The idea for ArtLifting was born!” – Liz Powers
You can read more about the artists + their incredible stories here.
“I’ve seen artists secure housing, gain confidence, and overcome obstacles through the sale and celebration of their art. ArtLifting gives its artists opportunity, not a handout, which validates the artists and their art. I’ve seen that validation permeate other areas of their lives and create positive change. Some may have more energy to complete job applications, others may be more motivated to stay healthy. The stories of these artists continually inspire me; it’s what fuels me to do the work I do. I am constantly motivated by our artists. They are unbelievably talented and their talents have been ignored for too long. My goal is to make their invisible talents visible and by doing so, change stereotypes. Instead of defining people by their circumstance, we should define them by their talent.” – Liz Powers
Below are some of my favorite pieces from their shop.
GHOSTS BY MIA BROWN
LONELY TREE BY JOHN RUSSO
4 HORSES BY SHANNON
LUNA BY LINDSAY ABROMAITIS – SMITH
COSMIC DREAMS BY JORDYN PERKINS
CLOUD 8 BY KYLE CORDEIRO
SOURCE : ARTLIFTING
PETALS BY CHARLES UNTERBERG
DON’T TOUCH THE FRO BY STACEY WILLIAMS
SOURCE : ARTLIFTING
EARTH AND SKY BY CAMERON MEEK
For more information on Artlifting, check out their site, blog, or social media.
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