Friends,
A decade ago, I began this journey with you. Driven by a passion and mission to bring the transformative, healing power of the arts to communities and individuals, The Arts & Spirituality Center has touched more than 25,000 lives in over 200 program sites since 2001. I have seen first hand the real change that our work has created. Through our programs, youth, as well as adults, have had the opportunity to reflect deeply upon their lives and dreams, and unearth their passions and talents. Communities of different faiths and ethnicities have united, discovering common ground in their shared humanity.
As we celebrate our 10th anniversary this year, I and The Arts & Spirituality Center staff and leadership have reflected deeply on where we have been, and where we want to go. As a part of this, we have undertaken a strategic planning process. We have also become aware that the time has come to assume a name and look for our organization that completely captures our work and programs, and positions us to reach even more lives.
Today, I am completely overjoyed to introduce ArtWell to you.
ArtWell. Awaken your dreams. We believe that ArtWell captures the essence of what we do: enabling individuals and communities to tap into the deep, limitless source of creative inspiration that has the power to bring forth renewal and wholeness. I am so proud to introduce the ArtWell name and look to the world, and it is my hope that you are sharing this joy and enthusiasm with me today.
In celebration of ArtWell’s 10th anniversary, we will be holding two upcoming events that I hope you will be able to join us for.
Sunday, July 10
ArtWell 10th Anniversary Celebration
The Philadelphia Zoo
11 am – 3pm
On Sunday, July 10 at The Philadelphia Zoo, we will host free art projects for children and families celebrating our 10th anniversary. Kids can dive in and participate in animal-themed art projects, led by our teaching artists, such as making masks and writing poetry. Youth are provided with the opportunity to reflect upon and be inspired by the animals at the Zoo while Marcy and Jan create a festive ambiance with their amazing drumming.
We are able to offer a discounted Zoo admission of $10 (regular price is $18 for adults and $15 for children ages 2-11) so you can enjoy our activities and a day of fun at The Zoo. To secure a discounted ticket, please RSVP to Julia Katz Terry at info@theartwell.org by July 6. When you arrive at The Zoo that day, there will be an ArtWell table where you can check in near the Zoo entrance. You will be given a voucher for the number of tickets that you have reserved and can pay for at that time.
We hope that you are able to join us on July 10!
Thursday, November 10
ArtWell 10th Anniversary Gala
Moore College of Art & Design
6-9 pm
Join us for a gala evening of celebration and music in honor of our 10th anniversary and Dr. Cathleen Cohen, the Rev. Dr. Eugene Bay and Ms. Adab Ibrahim. Please save the date and look for a formal invitation and more details to follow soon!
I have so much gratitude for each of you. You have been an integral part of our community, whose support and contributions over these past 10 years have helped the Arts & Spirituality Center grow into the life-giving ArtWell it has become. I wish to express my heart-felt thanks to you, and I look forward to your on-going partnership in the coming decade as we continue to explore the depths of the possibilities before us. By helping to bring the power of the arts to thousands, you are changing lives, you are awakening dreams.
Sincerely,
Rev. Susan Teegen-Case
Founder & Executive Director
ArtWell