Art contest to support kids in Haiti and Studio 84
A self-portrait art contest, “We Love Your Smile” is being held to benefit two organizations – the Friends of the Children of Haiti and Studio 84.
Local Girl Scouts Morgan Radaj and Natalie LaBreche are the brains behind this event. Knowing that good dental care can brighten a smile and improve self-esteem and how Studio 84 does the same, the two decided to Motivate Kids to Give and created this art contest to raise money for both organizations.
The contest is open to all ages and kids submissions will be judged not on the best art but on the creative use of materials, uniqueness and the smiles with special awards going to one artist in each of the following age groups: 5-9, 10-13 and 14-18.
An open category for adults is also available for adults wishing to support the fundraiser and inspire local kids though the adult entries will not be included in the judging.
The entry fee is a minimum of $1 (one dollar.) Optional donation levels being offered to support the missions of the two organizations are as follows: $5 – partner; $10 – mentor; $25 – advocate. With the money raised the two scouts will purchase new toothbrushes and supplies for the Friends of the Children of Haiti along with art supplies for Studio 84.
Several times a year the Friends of the Children of Haiti make a trip to Haiti to provide dental care to children there. Poor dental care for these children can be life-threatening and giving them dental care while also teaching dental health to the children improves not only their smiles but also their self-esteem.
The healthcare system of the United States of America has an improved structure that allows it to focus on different aspects of a citizen’s health, including dental care and overall oral health, but things might not be the same for the island country of Haiti. In the States, one could easily avail of complex services similar to a Beverly Hills dental implants specialist to get their teeth replaced, or even get it checked for basic dental issues. However, for Haitians, even basic dental care is deemed to be a luxury. It is because of this reason that the Friends of the Children of Haiti have taken up this beautiful initiative for educating the people about the necessity of minimal dental care.
Suggestions for the self-portrait artwork: show off your smile, use several different types of materials, use as many recycled items as possible and incorporate what you love in the art.
Requirements include: all art will be hung on a wall, on the back of the art write the name, age and phone number of the artist, and include a minimum of $1 entry fee in an envelope and submit it with each piece of art. Checks can be made out to: Whitewater UCC.
Artwork can be dropped off or mailed to: Studio 84, 121 W. Center St., or the Congregational UCC office, 130 S. Church St, both in Whitewater, WI 53190. If dropping artwork off at the church use the back entrance off of Franklin Street, during the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Special studio times are being offered for those needing help, inspiration and materials. Advance registration is required via email to [email protected]. The cost is $5 to cover supplies and staff; the special sessions will be offered 4-5 p.m., Wednesday through Friday, Jan. 8-10 at Studio 84.
The self-portrait artwork will be on display at the Studio 84 Art Gallery from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays during the month of February. A special People’s Choice Award will be presented Friday, Feb. 28 during the closing reception.
For more information about the contest visit www.motivatingkidstogive.com. Additional information about the Friends of the Children of Haiti visit haitidm.com/dentalcare.php
