Ladies and gentlemen,
For the past 12 years, it has been my privilege to serve as President of the Working Artists Forum (WAF). During this time, I have been fortunate to collaborate with many wonderful board members and committee chairs. When Perry Foster asked me to consider the presidency of WAF, I had no idea I would learn so much, make so many new friends, and witness the tremendous creative growth of this remarkable group.
I am incredibly proud of our work and accomplishments. Together, we have:
- Increased our annual exhibit opportunities.
- Raised the professionalism of our organization.
- Continued and even increased our annual donation to 34 elementary school art teachers in six counties on the Eastern Shore.
- Expanded our volunteer crew and extended support to other regional arts organizations.
Our annual exhibits, Local Color and Waterfowl Festival, have consistently grown in reputation and sales. Group exhibits at venues such as the Strathmore Mansion, Columbia Arts Center, Art League of Ocean City, Quiet Waters in Annapolis, and many others reflect the respect we receive from other arts organizations. Our collaboration with the Avalon Foundation has showcased Local Color as a prominent exhibit during Plein Air Easton.
During the pandemic, we stayed connected through monthly meetings, artist demos, and an engaging newsletter. Recently, we were approved for a grant from Talbot Arts to support demo artist fees. These invaluable demonstrations, covering watercolor, oil, pastel, and more, present hands-on lessons in artistic practice. Offered in person and on Zoom, our demos are free and open to everyone.
Despite the pandemic’s limitations, our dedicated board undertook the daunting task of updating the WAF website. Now, we have a more accessible and functional site, featuring member bios with examples of their work, exhibit overviews, downloadable application forms, and a portal for fee submissions. Our social media presence has broadened, and our publicity outreach has expanded, resulting in feature articles in regional publications, social media, and television. Our annual September juried membership has attracted new WAF members from expanded regions.
With unanimous member support, WAF makes an annual $1,000 donation to Easton’s Academy Art Museum. As a community partner, we support the museum’s vital work in making art accessible to all. The donation supports artists and children who might not otherwise be able to study at the Academy and underwrites an award at the annual Academy Members’ Show.
An exciting new exhibit, “Pretty in Pink,” was proposed by an active WAF member and embraced by our community, membership, and the Easton Economic Development Corporation. Scheduled for October 2024, this exhibit aims to raise breast cancer awareness and provide community support. At least 80% of art sales will be donated to these goals. This is WAF’s first philanthropic exhibit, and I am thrilled it seems likely to become an annual event.
I am confident that the forward momentum WAF has demonstrated during my presidency will continue with enthusiasm and commitment. Our creative growth seems limitless, and our dedication to excellence unwavering. I look forward to many more exciting years as a member of the Working Artists Forum.
