Rize’s Post

Y'all, bidding for the 1% for the Planet Network Auction starts NOW. Get on it and see all the good stuff we have to showcase this year– 400+ products, experiences, and services representing art, clothing, outdoor gear, pet gear, travel experiences, and more! Everything you see in this auction is from a member of 1% for the Planet– among the 5,700 businesses committing at least 1% of annual sales to environmental partners. This online auction is a great way to learn about who some of the members of 1% for the Planet are, to discover their products and offerings, and to give back (as well as get a deal, just in time for the holidays!). All proceeds will support our mission at 1% for the Planet. Get to it!

Here’s a case study on non-profit branding, bringing a powerful and important purpose to life. Check it out on our new website.

What is the role of the artist? James Baldwin said, "The role of the artist is exactly the same as the role of the lover. If I love you, I have to make you conscious of the things you don’t see." Or similarly, as Rick Rubin suggests, "Art is our portal to the unseen world.” Artists illuminate our interiors and bring forth that which we haven't known, or haven't known how to articulate. They have risked their heart and soul, and they are in service to the art. In today's market, brands are art, and artists are brands. This raises the question, is it art if it is made for the consumer? This exchange informs the art and blurs the artist's intent. In this relationship, the artist needs to be protected—they need boundaries for the abundance of expression.  If we look at Rick Rubin's artist priorities, "Inspiration comes first. You come next. The audience comes last.” With this order in mind, the artist in service to a brand has their priorities inverted. Art is made through the channel that is your expression, only as you can share it, only yours throughout all space and time, and made for art's sake. Let's practice uplifting the artist in each of us and in our society at large.  Make art a priority. Recognize that it has been the lifeblood of our communities, culture, and commerce for all of history. Here are our antidotes for the artist within and those all around us. https://lnkd.in/ensT3WRi

To read more information on the project, there is an article in the January / February issue of the SLL Light Lines magazine. https://lnkd.in/eQnBzrxG

Most Vancouverites have heard about Smokey D, right? The graffiti legend lighting up Vancouver with his art. But what many might not realize is the incredible impact he’s had on Downtown Eastside. This part of our city goes through a lot, every single day, and it's worlds apart from the Vancouver most of us know. Yet, there’s this amazing sense of community there that you don't find just anywhere. Smokey D’s story is more than just about art; it’s about making real, tangible differences in people’s lives with whatever you have to offer. With just his cans, creativity, and a big heart, he’s shown how much light you can bring into others' lives. And honestly, it’s pretty inspiring. Downtown Eastside could use all the help and love it can get, but there’s also so much we can learn from them. The way they stick together, support each other – it’s something special. It makes you think about the power of community and how we, too, can contribute in our own ways. So, if you’ve got a minute, dive into Smokey D’s journey through this documentary. It’s a solid reminder that it doesn’t take much to make a big impact. Whether you’re into graffiti or not, there’s something in his story for everyone. Let's not forget the bigger picture here – it’s about more than just helping out. It's about learning from each other and strengthening those ties that bind us as a community.

This month I wrap up my time as a board member with Neutral Ground, an artist-run centre in Regina, SK. It has been a pleasure to work alongside and learn from many incredible and passionate individuals. I cap off this year reflecting on what I have learned from stepping into the unfamiliar-to-me space of the arts sector... ◽ The arts are often called upon to make our cities better - whether through public art or event performances, but if they are only seen as outputs, we miss the mark on what they offer and miss out on creating sustainable, vibrant communities. ◽ There is an inherent tension in art existing in a society - this is the true value of what it offers us. The value is in what the arts do to push our society in their ability to shift understanding and perspective. We need to welcome challenge and engage, if we are to learn and benefit. Otherwise we can expect static outcomes. ◽ The arts require intentional focus, equitable practices, and space in free and supportive environments. It is a critical to foster the grassroots work of emerging artists. To support Neutral Ground and the work they do in fostering emerging, experimental, and multidisciplinary artistic practices, consider purchasing a membership, donating, or stopping by the gallery during operating hours. For more info, visit: https://lnkd.in/gn6iS26q There are no doubt other lessons that I have not yet even realized from my short time with the organization, but here is where I have come to today.

This session will offer helpful context to your own operations.

It’s stress awareness month and as part of that there are things we can all do to aid our own wellbeing. One of the 5 ways to wellbeing is to give. There’s lots of research about the positive effects of taking part in social and community life with some studies showing that people who help others are more likely to rate themselves as happy. Below is a great opportunity with a local charity close to my heart Motiv8 to do just that, whilst improving our community 😊I’m looking forward to taking part! So what ways do you give back? Is there anything you can do today to be kind and helpful to others, however big or small? #wellbeing #stressawarenessmonth

Check out this short recap from our Annual Meeting held today led by Board President Chris Morehead. Exciting things are happening at AAMV!