Dearest Friends,
I know that many of us are still in disbelief and so much sadness about Chris's passing. It still doesn't seem real. The only antidote I have to offer is action. It doesn't make the sadness disappear, but it seems to help-at least a little.
I think we all know how much Chris loved Creative Capital-and how much he loved Maine. Some of you may know that in honor of the nation's 250th birthday, Creative Capital has launched a new 2-year initiative to guarantee that there will be at least one awardee from every state-in addition to their commitment to continue to support 50 artists each year in the regular grant program. So, 100 artists a year for the next two years will be supported! It is a bold initiative at such a challenging time. Christine, thank you so much for your leadership.
So many of us came to know and treasure Chris through our association with Creative Capital, and so I asked Tim's permission to try to raise the support ($10,000/year for each of the next two years or $20,000 total) for the Creative Capital awards to Maine artists in Chris's honor. Tim loved the idea. As did Christine, Creative Capital's wonderful current director.
I swore my fundraising days were over when I retired from Creative Capital, but sometimes, well, you know.... For me, this is one of those moments. I feel compelled to honor our wonderful friend with something that I think would be meaningful to him.
I hope you will join me. I will be making a commitment of at least $1,000/year. I know that we are all at different capacity levels. I have to do almost all of my contributions over $250 on the installment plan!! Participation at any level will be so valued.
The Creative Capital website makes it easy to make a one-time donation or to donate in monthly installments. Since the website makes it possible to dedicate your contribution as well, please include Chris's name so we can track donations to the effort. Go to the Donate page at www.creative-capital.org.
Thank you. I am proud that this can be one tribute to Chris's enormous talent, unending generosity and friendship-to all of us and to so many others.
Best,
Ruby Lerner
