Help an inner-city nonprofit make its 20th anniversary dream come true

The Heartside Gallery & Studio (48 S. Division Ave., Grand Rapids) is asking the community to help them raise $6,000 through a Kickstarter campaign by May 16, 2013, so that it can print an originally created, commemorative book called, An Irregular Heartbeat.The funds will cover the costs of mass printing through a local printer. Donors giving a minimum of $30 will receive a book once printed, and options to give up to $130 offer donor recognition in the final print.
 
"It is a life goal of mine to ensure this book is printed for the Gallery," says Sarah Scott, Arts Coordinator for Heartside Gallery & Studio. "I know that many artists share my sentiment as the Gallery has become their place of refuge, growth, and love."

The book highlights the history of the Gallery, its artists, artwork, and the needs of the community. Professional photographers have captured each artist's intrinsic character, and professional graphic designers have laid out images of artists and their artwork in corresponding pages. Artists tell how the Studio has affected their lives, and why it is an important fixture in the community. The book will also include autobiographies, stories, poems, and jokes from over 30 artists.

Artists in the Studio come from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. Some are homeless, and others are impaired by varying degrees of substance abuse, and mental and physical health issues. Many are people from the neighborhood who simply wish to share their talents and expertise with their neighbors.

"I would not be where I am today without the Heartside Gallery," says long-time Heartside Gallery artist, Katalina Corona. "I am so honored to be a part of this book and have my artwork shown to the world!"
 
The Gallery began in 1993 as small offshoot of the nonprofit Heartside Ministry (54 S. Division Ave.). Since that time, the ministry has welcomed thousands of Heartside neighbors into a safe environment in which to create, exhibit, and sell artwork.

Get involved:

- Make a donation to the Kickstarter campaign by May 16, and share the link with all your friends.
- Donate to Heartside Ministry.
- Volunteer.
- Follow their Facebook page.

Source: Sarah Scott, Arts Coordinator for Heartside Ministry; Jennifer Luth, Clark Communications
Writer: Victoria Mullen, Do Good Editor

Images: Courtesy of Heartside Gallery and Studio