At the recent 2011 SGIA Expo, SGIA announced its new initiative in partnership with Fresh Artists, a nonprofit program that benefits art curriculums and empowers children as philanthropists, as well as encourages the development of graphics producers.
Through this innovative program, K-12 children in inner-city schools donate their selected artwork, and then large-scale, high-resolution reproductions are produced and installed in exchange for a financial contribution. Proceeds from the artwork are used by Fresh Artists to deliver quality art supplies to severely under- resourced K-12 public schools struggling with empty shelves.
“Graphics producers within the SGIA community will have the opportunity to work with Fresh Artists to produce selected children’s artwork that will be installed in the offices of large corporations and community service organizations throughout the country,” said SGIA President and CEO Michael Robertson. “This is a perfect opportunity for SGIA members to use their expertise and imaging capability in support of inner-city education. In addition to supporting education, the program will create future business opportunities for participants while nurturing future talent for our industry. This is a great example of corporate social responsibility and sustainability in action.”
SGIA looks forward to creating a network of “Fresh Artists” print providers and installers who have the opportunity to participate in the program and work with corporations and community service organizations that support Fresh Artists’ work in keeping access to art making and civic engagement in our public schools.
“Fresh Artists is thrilled and honored to be partnering with SGIA,” said Barbara Allen, founder and president of Fresh Artists. “This alliance will greatly help to take both our mission and children’s artwork throughout the country and beyond.”
