Art Gives sat down with Jennifer Bec Hirshfield, one of our Art Gives founders, to hear from her directly about her involvement with Art Gives, and her hopes for the Art Gives movement. We wanted to learn more about Jennifer’s decision to devote her creative energy to this new heartfelt endeavor. This is some of what we learned from our conversation.
Art Gives: What motivated you to come together with the other Art Gives founders to create the Art Gives initiative? What’s it all about? What meaning does it have for you?
Jennifer Bec Hirshfield: Art has been my passion since I was a small child. Now, as a working artist, I find that I can make an impact on the world both through my art and through my personal charitable support.
Along my path I have come to realize that art and philanthropy have a long and intertwined history. From the earliest forms of artistic expression, artists and institutions have used their talents to raise awareness and funds for important causes. I want to be active in the charities I support, and I’ve learned that there are different ways to do that. I’d like to explore those ways and contribute to the movement.
Art Gives: Can you tell us more about your perspective on the relationship between art and philanthropy?
Jennifer Bec Hirshfield: As a figurative artist, I believe that art has the power to inspire change and make a positive impact on society. California has a rich history of art and philanthropy, with many artists and institutions using their talents to raise awareness and funds for important causes.
Art Gives: How do you as an artist combine art and charitable endeavors?
Jennifer Bec Hirshfield: One way that works for me is to donate a portion of the sales of my artwork to organizations that support causes that resonate for me, such as environmental conservation, education, and healthcare. I believe that as an artist, it's important to use my talents to support causes that are important to me and to give back to the community.
Art Gives: How do you believe art can support charity and raise awareness for important causes?
Jennifer Bec Hirshfield: Art has the power to tell stories and connect with people on an emotional level. By creating works that depict the people and communities affected by a particular issue, artists can help to humanize the cause and inspire empathy and action. Art can also be used to create awareness and start conversations about important issues that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Art Gives: And what about auctions and fundraisers? Do you believe they are an effective way to support charities and give artists exposure?
Jennifer Bec Hirshfield: Yes, auctions and fundraisers are a great way for artists to donate their work and support charities, while also gaining exposure and recognition for their talent. It's a win-win situation for both the artist and the charity, and I think it's a wonderful way for the art community to come together to make a positive impact.
Art Gives: Can you share with us some of the charities you have supported through the sales of your art?
Jennifer Bec Hirshfield: Sure. I have supported a number of organizations over the years, including Planned Parenthood, Amnesty International, The Human Society, and the Jewish Community Free Clinic, which is here in Sonoma County, just to name a few.
Art Gives: What advice would you give to artists who want to use their talent to support charities and make a positive impact on society?
Jennifer Bec Hirshfield: My advice would be to find causes that you are passionate about and use your art to tell their stories. Think about how you can use your talent to create awareness, inspire empathy, and motivate action. And don't be afraid to get involved with organizations that support your cause - whether it's through donating your art, volunteering your time, or simply spreading the word. Follow our #ArtGives messaging and share this message with your friends. Together, we can make a difference through the power of art and philanthropy.
Art Gives: Thank you so much for your insights, Jennifer. It's clear that the relationship between art and charity is a long and intertwined one, and artists like yourself play a vital role in supporting important causes and making a positive impact on society.
Jennifer Bec Hirshfield: It's always a pleasure to share my perspective on this important topic.