Art Project Foundation- GROW Art

Dear Eric,

It was great speaking with you the other day and can't wait to meet up. As I mentioned I have a project that should be interesting to all of us.

I have started a community organization called The Art Project Foundation. Our objective is to bring more art to people, more people to art, and create a funding source for public art projects. Our secondary goal is to build a financial base that enables us to provide a creative outlet, counseling, and scholarships for abused and at-risk youth.

As I was exploring the needs of our community I have been asked by friend and associate, Candace Lopez, to take on the task of reinvigorating her flagship program, the Urban Art Trail. I can't think of a better possible way to get people excited about public art, or a better way to grab some national attention. When I was publishing D-Town, the Downtown San Diego Paper, Candace launched this program in her monthly column. We were all excited. It was just fun to be the San Diego urban activists. None of us knew how inspirational the Art Trail would become until it started spreading all over the country. Now we do and it's time to re-inspire and make downtown even more beautiful. This is an example of what types of public art the Art Project Foundation intends to coordinate and provide, something that can be of benefit to everyone.

As I am sure you are well aware, endeavors like this seem to have endless needs, so we will need to be self sustaining. All I am asking for is the space we need to do the heavy lifting. What I am hoping to put together with you fine people at Petco Park is a monthly (non-conflicting with game days) free to the public, Art / Fashion / Design fair on the Park at the Park grounds.

The main components would be as follows.

Bohemian Market
Display tables for designers- 20 to 30 maximum. Chosen to be a nice example of contemporary design. Somewhat edgy of course, but making sure none of the subject matter could be construed as overtly offensive to an all ages’ audience.

Think GREEN Spot

This will be a small section to display eco-friendly options, samples, and information.

Cause Market

This is our “world positive” spot to give change FOR change. 12 jars for 12 causes ranging from a micro loan program for women in 3rd world countries to the Rain Forest to a monkey sanctuary.

Other fun sections could developed along with it, yoga demonstrations, celebrity dunking booths, fortune tellers, Kareoke superstar contest, celebrity appearances, fashion runway shows, maybe we can set a World Record or two for giant finger painting or worlds biggest paint by numbers. Who knows? There are a million fun, positive things we can do. So we better get started.

I have had a few preliminary meetings with some of the local business people and have been overwhelmed by their support. There will be other art displays, receptions, and wine tastings that will be occurring in conjunction with the Bohemian Market, but the main focus will be the wares of designers and artists at the Park at the Park.

Way back when the ballpark was still in it's planning stages and waiting for public approval, the Park at the Park was one of the dealmakers for me coming out publicly as supporting the ballpark. I hope you remember how vocal I was in encouraging others to also support it. I have always dreamt of an event just like this going on there.

The size, scope, and significance of this monthly event can be jointly determined. Monthly beginning mid May would be ideal. I appreciate your time and look forward to potentially working with you. I am certain there is a perfect recipe that can make everyone benefit.

Art is a refuge for creative kids to escape from dangerous places. Those of us that have learned the hard way can guide others to a much easier path. That path can start at the Park at the Park. Thanks Padres.

Sincerely Rex Edhlund
Executive Director
Art Project Foundation

P.S.
Eric, I would love to have you as one of the advisory board. I hope you consider it.

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There is much to come from this collective.
Immediately we are focusing on sponsorships and volunteers. As events begin to be coordinated we will gladly update you, simply get on our wonderfully automated e-mail information thing below. This way you won't miss out on any of our wildly creative endeavors.Stay Tuned.

Immediately we are focusing on sponsorships and volunteers. As events begin to be coordinated we will gladly update you, simply get on our wonderfully automated e-mail information thing below. This way you won't miss out on any of our wildly creative endeavors.