"Gas Clouds" was included in the Universal Terrains exhibition at Alegria, and with the support of the artist, is currently on view at Bell Shelter. Bell provides shelter and addiction recovery services to homeless men and women. Located in a large warehouse south of downtown Los Angeles, Bell features a fully built out environment with souring ceilings. The facility houses over 400 individuals with residential options, community college classes, and comprehensive supportive services.
Comments
What an incredible project. Is this unique in the world of Salvation Army enterprises? How long as Art for Shelter been going?
This is unique to The Salvation Army. It is also unique to nonprofit organizations, with the usual interface with art extending to fundraising auctions and gallery operations as a revenue source. Art for Shelter knocks down the walls of the art establishment and brings contemporary art into the social services environment. For most homeless families, struggling with substance abuse and mental health disabilities, the last place they are going to go is an art museum or gallery. The presence of abundant security and the unspoken social contract of the environment is intimidating. Believing that art is relevant to the people we work with, we wanted to engage the art community by expanding the audience in a way that balances respect for the people we serve with respect for the artists.
On August 9th we open our third exhibition, and have just launched our Collections program with the Raymond's large painting at our Bell Shelter. Thanks for your interest!
What a great concept!!!