Hurricane Relief

I had two different people approach me yesterday at Mad Art about helping them organize some sort of artists relief effort for hurricane victims. One wanted artists to donate work (because artists don’t have money) for an art auction. He wanted to do this monthly—maybe at different places—starting with Mad Art. The other wanted to do a fundraiser where artists donate work and people pay a fee to attend the fundraiser and get a piece of artwork as part of their “ticket”. His intent was that the money raised would go directly to artists who lost everything. I know he knows one artist personally, but how to get money to other artists…I don’t know where to even begin.

I don’t want to be a punk…but anyone that would have to win a piece of artwork before they would donate money to hurricane relief…If you have the money, write a check. No need to make a big show and production out of it. And I don’t care if my money helps an artist, a mechanic, or manicurist. I feel so sorry for everyone affected. This thing is so overwhelming and depressing, I can barely stand it. I know these two guys are just trying to think of some way to contribute and help. I don't question their sincerity at all. But there is already so much confusion around the whole thing...I can't help but think the best thing is to just send some money.

This guy at my office actually had the nerve to insinuate that the people left stranded deserved their misery because they had plenty of warning to get out. But since he’s never not owned a car, been poor, been ill, been disabled, etc. I guess he wouldn’t really understand. Poor over-privileged jerk. I was furious and pretty much said so while he stuffed his face with brownie at our impromptu lunch gathering of about a dozen folks. Oh, and the other priceless comment he shared was, “The national guard should just surround the dome and let them all take care of themselves inside there.” I don’t know why he just didn’t come right out and say what he was really thinking. I have a whole new level of disrespect for this guy.

I just don’t get some people. I mean it. But I guess his thoughts aren't too far from the president's. Why should I be surprised?

I hear Sauce Magazine is trying to organize restaurants to donate a portion of all meals eaten next Friday and Saturday. I think we are doing a 50/50 raffle at Art Outside next weekend for hurricane relief.

In the mean time…I’m not sure how to address these two guys who want Mad Art’s help. Like I said. This thing is so overwhelming and depressing, I can barely stand it.
http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2005/katrina/help.center/