Where California Art and Philanthropy Intersect
Art Gives sat down with Jennifer Bec Hirshfield to better understand her perspective on the relationship between being a California Artist, art and philanthropy, and its 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. Jennifer Bec Hirshfield is active in the charities she supports through the sales of her art.
Art Gives: Jennifer, thank you for joining us today. Can you tell us about your perspective on the relationship between art and philanthropy?
Jennifer Bec Hirshfield: Thank you for having me. As a California 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: Can you share with us how you are active in the charities you support through the sales of your art?
Jennifer Bec Hirshfield: Absolutely. I donate a portion of the sales of my artwork to organizations that support causes 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: That's great to hear. 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: How do you see the role of California in the intersection of art and philanthropy?
Jennifer Bec Hirshfield: California has always been a hub for creative expression and social activism, and this is reflected in the many ways that art and philanthropy intersect in the state. From the environmental movement to the fight for civil rights and the rights of the LGBTQ community, California artists have played a key role in raising awareness and funds for important causes.
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, here in Sonoma County, just to name a few.
Art Gives: That's fantastic. Finally, 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. 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: Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure to share my perspective on this important topic.
————
Update: I’m pleased to have my work included in Works of Heart 2023, a vital fundraiser that raises much needed operating funds for the Jewish Community Free Clinic in Santa Rosa, CA.
On March 4th, you can attend the art show and a sumptuous dinner catered by Grossman’s Noshery and Bar, with live music by Kash Killion and Killion’s Trillions. Register for the event and purchase tickets at https://betterunite.com/jcfc-woh-2023 . Art can be viewed and purchased online through March 31.
I hope you will join me in supporting this essential organization to make a difference ensuring assistance to those most in need.
- Jennifer
————
Art Gives is an organization that drives awareness of philanthropic causes and promotes charitable contributions through Art.
