An esteemed group of visual artist hailing from across Central and East Brooklyn have decided to "paint it forward," by using their creative capital to give back to a good cause:
On Sunday, November 6, at least a dozen local painters will be grabbing their brushes for the second year in a row to participate in "Painting it Forward," a fundraising event that creates original works for auction and where all proceeds will be donated to the mentoring organization, Chionesu Bakari.
Chionesu Bakari, a Swahili phrase that means "Guiding Light of Noble Promise," is a mentoring and rites of passage program engaged in saving and developing young black males by reclaiming, renaming, renewing and reconditioning their minds. It strives to them to think critically and prepare them for a successful, noble manhood.
The art auction is the brainchild of visual artist Fedrecia Hartley, founder and owner of Zion Gallery, which opened in 2005 in Bed-Stuy. The gallery offers arts education classes to neighborhood youth and presents arts exhibits and cultural programs for the public.
Chionesu Bakari, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, has guided more than 200 boys into manhood. All of its young male participants finish high school and 96 percent of them enroll in college.
This parent testimony will inspire you! Also, read the BK Reader feature on Chionesu Bakari here.
Last year, the event raised nearly $10,000. This year, your $30 ticket will help keep the momentum going.
WHAT: Painting It Forward! 2016
WHEN: Sunday, November 6, 4:00pm — 7:00pm
WHERE: Weeksville Heritage Center, 158 Buffalo Avenue, Brooklyn (Get directions to Weeksville)
