RCWA is a great local arts organization that supports blossoming women artists of all ages. In addition to hosting fun and inspiring shows it also raises money for local charities supporting local women and childrens aid groups.
As a woman artist I understand the benefit of a helping hand particularly at the beginning of one's career. The RCWA does just that: gives you a leg up the ladder and educates the public about art.
With funds for the Arts/Cultural Events being cut everywhere, it is more important than ever to support a wonderful/life changing organization like RCWA. RCWA provides young women artists with opportunities not otherwise available. Also, their fundraisers supports other charitable organizations like Coalition Against Domestic Abuse (a program that gave me help and support during a very difficult time)
The Regional Center for Women in the Arts celebrates arts and artists in the most expansive and creative ways. The generous spirits of the founder and of RCWA itself result in a ripple effect in the community. Whether it’s providing exhibit space for local artists, engaging high school students to explore the meaning of art through an essay contest, rewarding film directors in a short-film festival, revitalizing our towns by using empty storefront windows as art space, or supporting artists who work with inmates on self-esteem through art therapy, RCWA does great things! Go to their website, get their newsletter. Put more art in your life.
I was Founder and President of the West Chester Film Festival when Valetta - Founder and President of RCWA - came to me. She said RCWA would like to sponsor a cash prize for the top Woman's Film in the Festival. It was (and still is) the only cash prize. I've since resigned from my post with WCFF and am now on the Board of RCWA. They are a diverse group of Art-Minded people doing our best to provide opportunities to women artists of all ages.
The Regional Center for Women in the arts is celebrating its 10th anniversary, having had over twenty exhibitions and raising money for local charities such as the Friends Association for Care and Protection of Children and far off places such as a birthing room at the Good Shepherd Hospital in Putar, India.
RCWA is a local non-profit with global vision. RCWA partners well with local shelters, churches, and schools that serve women and children in need, but also connects with women in India and the Middle East. RCWA provides women artists with exhibtion opportunities while raising funds for chariy. Outreach to young women and emerging artists is especially important so that their creativity is nurtured and acoomplishment is celebrated.
I'm amazed that RCWA accomplishes so much with limited financial resources. On-going projects include recognizing the best work of women filmmakers with a monetary award at the West Chester Film Festival; organizing regular fundraisers for the Association for the Care and Protection of Children (one of the oldest non-profits in the nation); supporting women artists with funds as well as opportunities to display their work in a variety of venues; and sponsoring a writing competition for high school girls. No other organization that I am aware of provides opportunities for growth and development of women artists at all levels in so many valuable ways.
There isn't another organization like the Regional Center for Women in the Arts in this region. Their hard, persistent work benefits all ages of women and girls. Not merely a granting organization, their members participate in enriching activities through teaching, mentoring, and personal giving. For example, a current project encourages other women artists to copy their artwork on their printer, frame the copy, and give it to a shelter - believing that the arts belong to everyone. Also, many artists from all over the world have contributed a square to an international peace quilt, which will travel to many countries. Improving the quality of life of women and girls is the only goal.
RCWA is committed to supporting and celebrating and encouraging women of all ages in the arts. RCWA hosts art shows, holds an annual essay contest, "Girls and Art", sponsors a women's award at West Chester's Annual Film Festival among other ongoing efforts. We have a vivacious and persistent Chair, Valetta, and a diverse and committed working Board of Directors.