Thursday, May 22, 2008

Art in the Park for an Important Mission






This past Saturday, I actually did something I've never done before...put my art out for sale to the public (minus hiding behind my etsy storefront!)...now that doesn't sound like a big deal to some, but for me, it was. I've pretty much kept it to myself, in my little room for me to see. I think I had a guilt about actually collecting money for something I did to help myself, for my own mind and well-being and for the pure enjoyment of it. It was an absolute blast! My friend Robin talked me into doing it...and of course, mom thought it was a great idea. Robin is a co-worker of mine at Coldwell Banker Complete and she serves on the Board of Directors of The Robert Elliott Foundation, a foundation whose mission is to educate and be a resource for those suffering from depression and need help. Dr. Robert Elliott is the father of a very dear friend of mine, Mark (in the center of photo of the 3 guys! Along with him is Jimmy Simpson, another friend I love - I've known them both since 9th grade! Keith Pike, family friend is on the left) and father-in-law to Mark's wife Leah, one of the most beautiful and inspiring people you will ever meet on the planet. Dr. Elliott was a wonderful physician and member of our community and has been sorely missed since he passed away. His family and friends strive to help anyone in need from going through what they have and to keep Dr. Elliott's work to help others alive to this day. You can check out the foundation at http://www.robertelliottfdn.com/. I actually sold 5 paintings that day...it was a beautiful day. Lots of sunshine, kids, a 2k and 5k run, a petting zoo with I swear, the ugliest cow on the planet and wonderful laughter. My mom and dad came to see me, along with my grandpa and Aunt Sandy. It was like my coming out party! I will definitely do it again and am glad to finally be getting my name out there...it's a journey all in itself, but one I love going on...the paintings I sold are pictured above and I hope the fantabulous people who made purchases with me enjoy them as much as I did painting them....



4 comments:

Chicken McFuggits said...

I like 'Down To Earth'. And make sure your hubby knows that we don't think you look old enough to have a 22 year old son.

Chicken McFuggits said...

Though now that I think about it, me and the wife don't look like we should have a 25 year old daughter. Something to do with our generation I guess. Anyway, luck to you and yours.

kellyvanhook said...

Well thank you for your very generous comments! I will be sure and tell the hubby that! I am so glad you like Down to Earth...it was purchased along with Live Live...all about being who you are and happy with where you are at. Something alot of us don't always do. Your blog covers alot and is very interesting. Keep it up! Thanks again, Kelly

Pat said...

Kelly, I just read the comments to this blog...I was going to say just how neat you are and how much we enjoyed the Saturday Art.....and I will. We certainly do think you are the neatest thing ever and loved being in the park with you. Now, as your mother, I'd like to add that I don't think you are old enough to have a 22 year old son either, but I know you do. Actually, I don't think I'm old enough to have a ____year old daughter and a 22 year old GRANDSON!!!! (Oh, shoot, I am!!!) Sure glad I have you both though. You are the BEST!!! Loveyalots, Mom