Youth Bridge Almost Van Gogh Fundraiser Art Challenge

Youth Bridge is a non-profit agency in Arkansas that serves youths and their families in the areas of neglect, abuse, addiction, homelessness, mental health issues and behavioral problems.  When my son told me about Youth Bridge's annual art fundraiser and auction- "Almost Van Gogh" - I couldn't resist the challenge of participating in this very worthwhile event.  This year's event focuses on the importance of art therapy.  As one who regularly makes art as a way of "de-stressing" from everyday life and it's issues, I can totally attest to the value of art therapy.

This challenge invites local artists to create their own version of a Van Gogh, or paint something in the style of Van Gogh.  Each participant is given 3 colors of paint (my colors are black, white and red), 2 paint brushes and a 14" x 18" canvas to work with.  Artists can use any other products (not paint) to color and decorate their art.

I decided to make my version of Van Gogh's Poppies.  I painted the background with a mixture of white paint, alcohol ink and heavy gel medium to achieve texture.  I then used punchinella (sequin waste ribbon) as a stencil and sponged red highlights over the background.  Colorful scrapbook paper was cut into little squares for the mosaic-style table and vase.  Pretty silk purple poppies, leaves and filler flowers were used to complete the design.  Last, but certainly not least, I used a touch a red and black paint and glitter glue to add highlights to the bouquet.

I am looking forward to attending the "Almost Van Gogh" event this year and seeing how other artists rose to the challenge of creating art with a limited base of materials.  The event takes place on Saturday, June 23, 2012.  Stay tuned for an update of this fabulous and worthwhile event after that time. :)