In a bid to foster creativity and support the local arts scene, the Logan County Art League (LCAL) once again hosted its annual fundraiser, Not So Bad Art by Good People. This event not only showcased the talent of community members but also raised much-needed funds to help sustain the league’s various programs throughout the year.
This year’s event, held at Honey Birch Farm on January 31, attracted over 60 attendees who gathered to celebrate the community’s artistic achievements while supporting a meaningful cause. The evening culminated with an art auction and the announcement of the People’s Choice Award. Attendees bid on pieces of art created by nine local artists, with all proceeds benefiting the Logan County Art League. The night also saw a spirited bidding competition that raised funds for the league’s operations.
Key Takeaways
An annual fundraiser called ‘Not So Bad Art by Good People’ raises money for the Logan County Art League while fostering creativity among local artists.
- Over 60 attendees participated in an art auction that raised nearly $8,000 to support the league’s operations and programs.
- The event highlights the therapeutic benefits of art for seniors, including improved cognitive function and reduced feelings of isolation.
- Engaging in artistic activities helps form social bonds among seniors and provides a constructive outlet for emotional expression.
Art event raises funds, fosters creativity
The event has grown significantly since its inception, with community members participating in a range of creative activities. Local artists submitted their works to be displayed and auctioned off, with each piece reflecting a unique perspective of the local culture and landscape.
Brian Holder, with Indian Lake Outfitters, was honored with this year’s People’s Choice Award for his painting titled Starry Night Over Indian Lake. Holder’s piece earned an impressive 603 votes, making it the most popular of the nine works displayed. The voting process was made accessible to a wider audience by offering both in-person and online voting options. This dual approach proved successful, as it brought in $1,800 in funds from voter contributions alone.
The excitement around the artwork was palpable during the auction, which was led by Mick Lile of Logan Auction. The auction raised an additional $4,550 for the LCAL, with the total net proceeds for the event reaching nearly $8,000. These funds are crucial for sustaining the league’s operations, which include covering expenses such as rent, liability insurance, and maintaining an online presence, all of which total approximately $12,000 per year.
In addition to funding the league’s operational costs, the event also plays a pivotal role in fostering a deeper connection to the visual arts within the community. According to Darcy DeLeon, LCAL president, the funds raised help provide opportunities for the community to engage with the arts in meaningful ways. The LCAL hopes to grow its membership with individuals who share a passion for creative expression and wish to take a break from screen time by engaging in artistic endeavors.
The therapeutic benefits of art for seniors
Beyond the fundraising aspect, the event also highlighted the therapeutic power of art for seniors. Art therapy has been increasingly recognized for its numerous benefits in promoting emotional, cognitive, and social well-being among the elderly. Engaging in creative activities like painting, drawing, or crafting can significantly improve mental health by offering seniors a channel for emotional expression in a supportive environment.
Research indicates that art therapy can be particularly beneficial for seniors, as it helps maintain cognitive function, reduces feelings of isolation, and fosters social interaction. A report from the Senior Friendship Centers found that participating in artistic endeavors can lead to significant reductions in depression, loneliness, and anxiety. Additionally, activities like mandala drawing or creating simple craft projects can provide seniors with emotional relief, offering a constructive outlet for their emotions.
Art therapy has also been shown to enhance cognitive abilities by engaging various areas of the brain. Creative activities help improve memory recall, attention span, and problem-solving skills. In some cases, it may even play a role in slowing down cognitive decline commonly associated with aging, such as dementia. By regularly engaging in artistic activities, seniors can stimulate their minds and maintain a healthy cognitive function as they age.
Moreover, the benefits of art therapy go beyond just cognitive enhancement. As seniors create, they also engage in social interactions, either through group activities or individual projects that encourage conversation and collaboration.
These activities are particularly valuable for those who may have difficulty with verbal communication, allowing them to express their thoughts and feelings through their art. As seniors connect with one another over shared creative experiences, they form stronger social bonds, ultimately improving their overall emotional well-being.
Closing thoughts
The annual fundraiser for the Logan County Art League serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community-driven initiatives that engage people of all ages. For seniors, in particular, involvement in art activities can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. These types of group art events not only give seniors an opportunity to display their creativity but also enable them to connect with others, share their stories, and form lasting friendships.
The LCAL is dedicated to offering programs that make the arts accessible to everyone, regardless of age or skill level. For those in the senior community, engaging in the arts is not just about creating beautiful work—it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and improving overall well-being. As DeLeon noted, the goal of the LCAL is not only to raise funds but also to encourage a community spirit where individuals can come together, share their love for art, and enrich their lives through creative expression.
