For the past few weeks I’ve been working on an online arts auction in aid of charity.
The aim is to fundraise enough money to send 15 under privileged boys on holiday during their summer holidays.
The boys are aged between eight and 18 and are residents of St. Joseph’s Home in St. Venera. Because of their circumstances, for most, this will be the very first and last time they will have the opportunity to leave the island.
I worked with another five women on this project and, though I’ve been on this earth for almost 40 years now, it has taken me this long to learn these life lessons which, because I’m in a generous mood, will share with you :
Most artists will never turn up on time.
They are likely to be late even for their own funeral.
They will forget to call you back and, they will very likely forget your name, but most, will give you the shirt on their back if they believe in your cause and never mention another word about it.
Good friendships and partnerships set on good foundations last the test of time.
People and businesses will come through when you need them. All you have to do is ask nicely.
Though I don’t generally like The Church, its ways, and some of its teachings, there are some members within it whom I can converse with till the cows come home. These tend to be the same people who deserve a medal for their hard work and open-mindedness.
Most do not think that going on holiday is a basic human need, but they will still agree that children with disturbed backgrounds and children who have had to be separated from their families, have already had it tough enough, and therefore deserve a good break.
The funky looking stranger who gate crashes your fundraiser and looks like he’s going to rob the place, will be the one who picks up the donation box and goes round encouraging people to donate. When you think he’s going to run off with it, he’ll walk up to you and hand you over the money, smiles and leaves.
Girls will be girls, and women will be women. They will get pregnant mid-way through your project, their kids will fall ill and they will cancel meetings last minute. In addition not having the right item to wear for a launch event could be a deal breaker, and if you point a camera at some of them you might as well be pointing a gun.
And yet, women have their own particular way of managing things and people, and at the end of the day, the job is done, hugs and kisses are exchanged, and many many new bridges are built.
And finally, artistic tastes are like love affairs. Just like a lover, you can’t control what piece of art you’ll fall in love with. Just go with it, don’t resist, because if you do, your desire will only self-combust, usually when you’re least expecting it.
The online auction runs till the end of the month We’re aiming at raising €600 per child.
For more information visit - http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20130406/local/painting-for-charity-artists-help-to-raise-funds-for-children-of-st-joseph-s-home.464422