It has been over a month since an earthquake off Haiti’s shore brought death and destruction to its people. But relief efforts to the troubled island nation have not slowed down. A Haiti fundraiser was held last weekend at the Hive Gallery in Trolley Square, itself an area associated with pain and suffering after the infamous Trolley Square shooting just three years ago.
The venue showcased a variety of different art styles, from paintings and photographs to fashion and music from over 30 local artists. Among those displaying works included Mitch Meyer and Justin Grant, as well as event organizers Monica and Lillian Henrie. Salt Lake Community College’s own fashion columnist David Horne’s work as displayed as well. Perhaps the most striking and affecting work as presented by Danielle Parris, whose photos of a pre-quake Haiti were poignant, silent pleas for the cause.
A variety of local musical talent, such as Jennica Galloway, Kodiak Paulson and Chaz Prymek gave performances that contributed to the upbeat and hopeful ambiance of the scene.
Monica Henrie came up with the idea for an art show while watching the heartbreaking coverage with her mother. “I was watching Haiti footage with my mom, and we looked at each other wondering what we could do,” said Henrie, “The idea of an art show was brought up and then it just kind of branched out from there.”
Hive Gallery owner Emily Camacho was quickly sold on the idea, Cali’s Natural Foods stepped up to provide perusing attendees a variety of snacks and hor d’oeuvres.
A minimum donation of two dollars was required for admission, though many paid more for the privilege of entering. All entrants received raffle tickets, with quantities determined on a sliding scale based on the size of the donation, to take home work from some of the artists. Organizers said that 100 percent of all donations and sales were handed over to The American Red Cross and put directly into The Haiti Relief Fund.
For more information, or to find out how you can help go to: https://american.redcross.org/supporthaiti.