Dear Members and Friends of AAG:
It is with deep gratitude that I write to you today as a member of this creative community that values the connection between art and humanity. At AAG we are passionate about igniting the creative spark within each of us. We do this with an open sharing and exchange of ideas and expressions without concern of competition, along with words of encouragement and support. Collaboration, creative thinking, and sharing are all words that describe the culture at AAG.
I see this in action through the success of our programs such as the Veterans Art Program, the Scholarship Awards, and an upsurge in attendance and participation in the monthly meetings and critiques. Entries to our Exhibits has also grown and we’ve recorded sales at almost every show. Several workshops last year reached sold-out capacity, some with wait lists! Membership has not only increased, but we are also attracting diverse artists. Our membership ages range from the 20’s to the 90’s.
I am immensely proud of the milestones we have met in the past few years during my tenure as president. I look to the future and envision an expanded community outreach program, increased scholarship disbursement, expanded mentorship programs, new arts events for the general public, stronger connections with area community colleges, a significant role in the city of Phoenix public arts development, and enhanced collaborative working relationships with our sister arts organizations. All of this while continuing popular programs such as the Open Studio sessions, Life Drawing sessions, and the Art Supply Exchange.
All this takes time, dedication and money. Please consider becoming a more active member through volunteering your time and/or donating to the general fund which strengthens AAG at its core, building a foundation that supports every aspect of our guild.
There are three ways you can donate:
–your money. Simply select the amount that is right for you, be it one time or recurring monthly. You can donate on line, www.arizonaartistsguild.net/donate/, by phone, 602-944-9713, or with a check payable to Arizona Artists Guild, P.O. Box 41534, Phoenix, AZ 85080-1534.
–your gently used art supplies to the art supply exchange.
–your time and skills by volunteering. There are so many ways you can participate. You can donate an hour of your time during a special event, join a committee or a seat on the board. The choice is yours, but this is the most important way of donating of all. Your time and energy is the secret ingredient that will insure that AAG continues to be a vital part of the arts in Phoenix.
Your contribution will ensure we continue spreading positive, transformative change to members and non-members alike through our exhibitions, workshops and programs. It is because of your involvement AAG continues to thrive after 87 years.
With heartfelt gratitude and warm wishes for the New Year.
David Lloyd Bradley
