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Feria Exposición Maestros del Arte A.C. Inc.
02/04/10
Chapala, Jalisco, Mexico
I have seen the difference this non-profit organization has made in the lives of Mexican artist's families throughout Mexico. Artists attend the show at no cost to them and are housed with local residents for the 3-day show. Cross cultural bonds are formed, artists have an opportunity to increase their yearly income which has a ripple effect on their families and communities while keeping art that may have been in their families for generations alive and well.
The Great!
- I've seen the results of this organization in... the income it generates for low-income indigenous Mexican artist families. Their participation in this event has opened new doors for selling their work, educating their children, improving their living conditions and much more.
- What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is... watching the impact this event has on a first-time attendee. It is obvious to them they are seeing some of the finest artwork in Mexico. They have an opportunity to meet the artists themselves while purchasing one-of-a-kind art.
- The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were... incredible individuals with the same goal. We have no paid staff - we are all volunteers. Our community support is incredible - for example, local residents hosted over 176 artists in 2009 - invited the artists into their homes for 3-day event.
- If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could... promote this event to attract buyers and collectors who have the ability to purchase from these artists on an on-going basis. We could also realize other goals of educational opportunities for children of these families.
Ways to make it better!
- In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are... funding. Since we charge the artists nothing to attend, the only funds we make ourselves is our admission ($5/person). We were fortunate to receive a grant to provide free transportation to the artists in 2009.
MY ROLE: I was a Board Member & I am founder and coordinator of the event.