Support Juniper Gallery and Jaime Sweany

We are raising funds to save the Juniper Art Gallery in Spencer, Indiana.  I grew up in a small Indiana town that had no art gallery.  The only art I was regularly exposed to was that of chalk artist evangelists who used the medium to scare us out of hell or entice us into heaven.  I was well into adulthood before I ever stood before an original painting by a very talented artist.  I am in awe of not only the talent of artists, but also by their courage to present their work to be viewed by others.  I am also awed by the courage of Jaimie Sweany whose love of art moved her to take a chance on Spencer.  Because of this virus, and this shutdown, her ability to stay on the square in our county seat is threatened.

 I have started a group called "Friends of Juniper" and you can join by donating to Juniper Art Gallery.  I have long believed that art is revolutionary or it is not art at all.  Every time I visit the Juniper Art Gallery, I am challenged by new perspectives, and mediums.  I want this gallery to be here for our children and grandchildren.  I want Owen County to have a place for regional artists to show their work, and for residents of Owen County and elsewhere to celebrate the joy and truth of art.  Please join our effort.  The big corporations can count on politicians to save them during this pandemic.   I hope our artists and lovers of art can count on us to save them.  If everyone gives what they can, we can make sure that Juniper is here when the re-opening happens.  Be safe, be smart, and be generous.  Our grandchildren will love you for it.

This request is not just for those in Owen County.  I challenge those of you who are far and wide.  Help us elevate the status of the arts in rural Indiana by keeping Juniper Art Gallery open.

Give what you can.  You will feel better for it, and I will thank you from the bottom of my pea-picking heart.--peace--bill breeden