For my Tikkun Olam project, I got myself and other artists I know and asked them to create small paintings or drawings on canvas on the topic of repairing the world, which I could then sell. The money will be donated to Engineers Without Borders.
Engineers Without Borders is a non-profit organization that helps developing countries and areas with small-scale infrastructure projects. They apply practical engineering skills to real life problems. They inform, train, and supply local communities with what they need to sustain the projects they bring to them. This is the best type of giving, because food, medicine, and other supplies go away after time but knowledge does not. You can learn more about Engineers Without Borders from their website.
The specific project I am focusing on is "Potable Water Supply and Distribution in Higuerito Central, Honduras". Higuerto Central is a new community built to replace one that was destroyed by Hurricane Mitch in 1998. The town was constructed quickly, and the water supply is not safe. Engineers Without Borders is working with the local Water Committee to build a well and install an electric pump, water tanks, and piping. The project needs about $100,000 to finish.
Since I couldn't go to Honduras to help with the project, I decided the next best way to help was to raise money for their needs. I brainstormed for a while trying to find a good project that I would be motivated to work hard on. Then I found a YouTube video from the Tuscon Arizona JCC describing a project where artists were invited to create 12″ by 12″ paintings on the theme of repairing the world, where were then brought together for a show.
I liked this idea, and I adapted it to be a little less expensive to create. I invited a bunch of my artist friends to help me in creating a set of paintings and drawings on 10″ by 10″ canvases. I bought 20 sets of identical canvases, and gave them to my artists so that all the works could go together. I had five other people helping me make these paintings. The entire set of works was on display at the kiddush luncheon after my bar mitzvah. Two of my friends are adult, professional artists who I hope will help me set good prices for the art. While I won't be selling the paintings on Shabbat, I'll have flyers and this webpage for people to check out and order from.
I've enjoyed making my own paintings for this project, and organizing some friends to do it with me. My final goal is to raise $500 for Engineers Without Borders.
Back to home