Cleveland native Agnes Gund, 84, still pushes boundaries in art and philanthropy, nationally and in her hometown by Steven Litt Cleveland.com

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At 84, Cleveland native Agnes Gund still pioneers innovative philanthropy blending art and politics
By Steven Litt, cleveland.com
CLEVELAND, Ohio — Few wealthy donors have done more in recent decades to nudge the once-conservative Cleveland Museum of Art to embrace contemporary art than Cleveland native Agnes Gund. But don’t expect the New York-based philanthropist and art advocate to brag about it.
Since 1969, when she donated a large, bright yellow abstract painting by Larry Poons, Gund has given the museum 50 major works by leading post-World War II American artists including Philip Guston, Frank Stella, Donald Sultan, Red Grooms, Claes Oldenburg, Christo, Martin Puryear, Brice Marden, Sol LeWitt, and Robert Colescott.
Those artworks, including Oldenburg’s “Standing Mitt with Ball,’’ a monumental 1973 sculpture of a baseball glove, made with steel, lead, and wood now on view in the museum’s central atrium, have become signature pieces in the institution’s permanent collection.
“Aggie has had a tremendous impact on the Cleveland Museum of Art’s contemporary collection,’’ said Emily Liebert, curator of contemporary art. “For years, she championed contemporary art when no one else was doing that. She really created the foundation on which our department was built.’’
Gund’s generosity to the Cleveland museum is part of her practice over more than five decades of using art and philanthropy to pursue unabashedly progressive aims, including the promotion of social justice and healing racial divisions.
In 2017, for example, Gund made headlines by selling Roy Lichtenstein’s 1962 Pop Art painting,
“Masterpiece,’’ for $165 million, and using $100 million of the proceeds from the sale to launch Art For Justice, a six-year campaign aimed at funding art projects and supporting public policy reforms dedicated to reducing mass incarceration by 20%.
Such largesse has prompted adoring press coverage, including a 2018 profile in The New York Times that ran under the headline, “Is Agnes Gund the Last Good Rich Person?”
But Gund, 84, isn’t one to tout her impact. Instead, she’s more likely to direct attention to artists, foundation leaders, social activists, and fellow philanthropists with whom she feels an affinity.
When asked in a recent interview with Cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer whether she felt she has succeeded in pushing the Cleveland Museum of Art to show greater enthusiasm for contemporary art, she said: “Not very much.’’
Instead, she praised Dealer Tire CEO Scott Mueller, who served as chairman of the museum’s board from 2019 to 2022, and who has donated millions of dollars to the museum, plus nearly two dozen important works of contemporary art, since 2008.
Gund called Mueller, “the big man at the Cleveland museum,’’ and said, “he’s the one that’s very good.’’

When told about Gund’s remarks, Mueller responded via text: “No, she is the one who is an inspiration to anyone in the art world. Her commitment to both artists and curators and museum leadership, in general, is extraordinary. I only hope to be 1% as impactful as she has been.’’
It was a typical exchange about Gund. Speaking of her modesty, New York-based artist Hank Willis Thomas said: “It’s just a part of who she is.’’
Known in Cleveland for co-organizing public dialogues as part of a national series called, “For Freedoms,’’ Thomas added that Gund “obviously has spent most of her life orienting her time, energy and resources toward things that she believes are very important. She probably feels beside the point when she is invited to talk about herself.”
Regular visits to Cleveland
Gund, who visits Cleveland regularly, was in town last month to tour the Cleveland Museum of Art’s Community Arts Center on West 25th Street, to meet with Mayor Justin Bibb, and to promote awareness of the local branch of Studio in a School, the art education program she stated in New York in 1977 that places professional artists in public school classrooms. Works by children in the program were on view at the community arts center, located in the Pivot Center for Art, Dance and Expression.
In addition to Cleveland, the Studio Institute, an affiliate of Studio in a School, operates programs in Chicago, Memphis, New York, Philadelphia, Connecticut, and New Jersey. The program served 565 Cleveland Metropolitan School District students across the city in 2020-2021, and 500 in 2022. Professional artists who receive specialized training to participate were paid stipends to work with children in grades K-8.
This year, the Studio Institute has embarked on a new collaboration with the nonprofit Rainey Institute, which provides after-school, weekend, and summer programs for 2,500 children a year.
Gund’s schedule in Cleveland didn’t allow enough time for a conversation during the visit, but she agreed to a follow-up interview via Zoom. It was a chance for her to reflect on her philanthropy, the role Cleveland has played in her life, and vice versa.
Gund is the second of six children born to Cleveland banker and philanthropist George Gund II, the longtime head of Cleveland Trust, and Jessica Roesler Gund.
Other siblings closely involved with Cleveland have included the late George Gund III, a collector of Japanese art and a former trustee of the Cleveland Museum of Art; investor Gordon Gund, former owner of the Cavaliers; and architect Graham Gund, a graduate of Kenyon College and designer of the Cleveland Botanical Garden’s 2003 Glass House expansion.
Agnes Gund’s daughter Catherine, a filmmaker, chairs the board of the Cleveland-based foundation named for her grandfather, on which she serves along with five other family members from her generation. The foundation had assets of $642 million as of 2021, the latest year for which data were available.
Catherine also recently directed a 90-minute documentary about her mother, titled, “Aggie: An Incredible Story of Art and Justice.”

In 2015, Forbes magazine estimated the Gunds’ wealth at $3.4 billion, dubbing them a
“Renaissance family” for their involvement in everything from banking to sports, real estate, and art.
Rising in art and philanthropy
Agnes Gund joined the board of the Museum of Modern Art in New York in 1976 and later earned a master’s degree in art history at Harvard. She served as MOMA’s board president from 1991 to 2002, a period in which she led the $858 million capital campaign that financed an expansion and renovation designed by Japanese architect Yoshio Taniguchi.
Gund was moved in 2017 to auction Lichtenstein’s “Masterpiece,” after seeing Ava DuVernay’s documentary, “13th,” which explores how inequities of the U.S. justice system and mass incarceration disproportionately affect Black people.
The nonprofit Art for Justice Fund, launched by Gund with a major chunk of the proceeds, supported a dozen major exhibitions nationwide aimed at raising awareness about the justice system. The project also helped to abolish cash bail and post-conviction fees in New Orleans, Houston, and St. Louis, and to make it possible starting in 2018 for former felons to vote in Florida. Even so, Florida laws remain ambiguous, leaving nearly a million Floridians who have finished prison disenfranchised, according to news reports.
Incarceration rates fell nationally by 18% between 2016 and 2021, but rose when the coronavirus pandemic hit, increasing crime and prison populations, said Art for Justice project manager Helena Huang. The project is winding down on June 30, having raised and spent $125 million.
In October, Gund followed up on Art For Justice by selling Lichtenstein’s “Mirror #5,’’ 1970, at auction for $3.1 million to benefit organizations supporting the reproductive rights constitutional ballot measure in Michigan, which passed by a margin of more than 55% of votes cast.
In her interview, Gund said she’s alarmed by the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision overruling Roe v. Wade, which sent the issue of abortion rights back to states, where majority-Republican legislatures are rolling back reproductive rights.
“Before you know it, there will be very few states that do have full reproductive rights for women,” she said. “We really need to vote and be concerned about who we’re voting for.’’
When asked about the push by Republican state legislators in Ohio to hold an August vote on a ballot issue to impose a 60% threshold on votes to change the state constitution — a move designed to thwart an abortion-rights referendum in November —she said: “I think it’s terrible, I think it’s awful.’’
She’s also disturbed by “anti-woke” legislation pushed by Florida Gov. and Republican presidential primary candidate Ron DeSantis, including a 2022 measure that imposes guidelines for books with content deemed inappropriate on grounds of race, sexuality, gender, and depictions of violence.
Gund said the bill is leading to censorship, which “is going to be the death knell of our system if we don’t get a hold of it and reverse it.”
Amid the growing national division over race, policing, and vigilantism, Gund said she fears for the safety of the six of her 12 grandchildren who are Black.

“I feel scared for them a lot of the times if they are wearing hoodies,’’ she said. “I don’t know if they know how vulnerable they are.”
Gund explained her passion for social justice as a response to her upbringing in Cleveland, which she called “a city that really was polarized.’’
During Sunday drives into Cleveland with her family from Beachwood to worship at Trinity Cathedral, Gund was disturbed by the poverty she glimpsed through the car window in racially segregated neighborhoods.
“Nobody should be put in the position that Blacks have been put,’’ she said.
Diversifying a museum collection
One of the subtle ways in which Gund has worked to change perceptions of race in Cleveland is by giving the art museum works by Black artists including Puryear, Colescott, and Rashid Johnson.
Gund works hard at obtaining such objects, Johnson said, speaking from his studio in the Brooklyn, New York neighborhood of Bushwick.
In 2021, he set aside a massive wall-mounted mosaic, “Standing Broken Men’’ as a pivotal piece that he didn’t intend to sell. The work depicts fragmented bodies of two Black men stand ing above a boat-like form. He intended the image to evoke “being in the same boat,’’ in a time of “collective concern,’’ during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, the painting refers, he said,
to “autonomy and individual thinking.’’
When Gund showed up 45 minutes early for a studio visit as part of a larger group so she could spend time alone with Johnson, she recognized the significance of “Standing Broken Men’’ in Johnson’s career and told him on the spot that she wanted to buy it for the Cleveland Museum of Art. Would he part with it?
“It was an easy yes at that point,’’ Johnson said. “She wasn’t asking for herself. It was essentially,
‘Can everyone see this?’ For most artists, I would like to think the answer would be yes. To produce the opportunity for people to have access to an artwork the way she was intending at the museum, it was impossible not to say yes.”
Gund’s donation of some 800 objects to the Museum of Modern Art, dwarfs the number of gifts she has given to the Cleveland museum. But that doesn’t diminish the impact of her contributions to her hometown museum, which is considerable.
She’s been generous, in part, because she believes the museum is one of the best in the U.S., and she wants to keep pushing it forward. She feels that it isn’t getting the attention it deserves from outside the region, especially from major coastal newspapers.
“I don’t think they ever get enough play,’’ she said.
And, despite the large number of artworks she’s already donated in Cleveland, she has no intention of stopping. She has plans for significant future gifts, although for now, she’s mum on the topic.
But rest assured, she said, “there’s quite a bit that’s coming their way.”

Dear Aggie Gund

I hope this letter finds you well. As an art teacher at the Studio Institute in Cleveland, I wanted to take a moment to express my deep admiration for your incredible contributions to the world of art and philanthropy. Your unwavering commitment to using art as a means of promoting social justice and healing racial divisions is truly inspiring.

Your generosity towards the Cleveland Museum of Art has had a profound impact on our institution, particularly in pushing us to embrace contemporary art. Your support has opened doors for artists and audiences alike, fostering a space where progressive ideas can flourish. We are incredibly grateful for your dedication to nurturing a thriving artistic community.

I was particularly moved by your initiative, Art For Justice, which aims to reduce mass incarceration through art projects and public policy reforms. The $100 million you allocated from the sale of Roy Lichtenstein’s “Masterpiece” has allowed for the funding of crucial initiatives. It is through efforts like yours that we can address social issues and create positive change in our society.

At the Studio Institute, we strive to empower young minds through art education. The collaboration between our program and the Rainey Institute has provided invaluable after-school, weekend, and summer programs for 2,500 children each year. By partnering with professional artists who receive specialized training, we ensure that our students receive top-notch instruction and guidance.

Last year, I had the pleasure of teaching at Mary B. Martin, where the students had the opportunity to display their artwork at Christie NYC. Witnessing their joy and excitement as they saw their creations showcased in such a prestigious setting was truly heartwarming. Their smiles were contagious, and it was evident that their hard work and dedication had paid off. From watercolor to model clay, painting to ink, charcoal to oil pastels, and self-portraits, their artistic range was impressive.

Teaching the principles of art and design to our K-8 students not only provides them with a solid foundation but also encourages them to think creatively and break the rules as they grow older. It is through this process that we nurture their artistic expression and enable them to explore different genres. In Shawn Kerns’ class, for example, the children have discovered a passion for clay animation projects, showcasing their boundless imagination and talent.

The enthusiasm and dedication of our students are a testament to the impact of art education on their lives. They eagerly make up missed classes because they don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to learn and create. Witnessing their growth and witnessing their artistic journeys is a constant source of inspiration for us as teachers.

Once again, Aggie Gund, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for your contributions to the art world and the lives of so many individuals. Your dedication to promoting social justice through art is truly remarkable. Your impact reaches far beyond the Cleveland Museum of Art, and I am honored to be part of a larger movement that you have helped shape. Thank you for all that you do.

I wanted to take a moment to share with you another endeavor I am involved in, one that extends beyond my role as an art teacher. I am currently working on creating an app called Govia, which aims to provide assistance to individuals, particularly those who are economically disadvantaged, when they encounter legal issues during a traffic stop.

The app seeks to promote accountability between individuals and police officers by offering immediate access to legal representation in moments of need. By providing an attorney on-demand, we aim to facilitate constructive conversations between the parties involved, fostering understanding and resolution. Additionally, recognizing the importance of mental health, we also offer access to a mental health support staff for individuals who require such assistance.

I invite you to visit www.Govia.app to learn more about the app and its objectives. Your support would be greatly appreciated, and you have the opportunity to become one of our legacy donors. Your contribution would help us further develop and expand the reach of the app, enabling us to provide crucial support to individuals in need.

Thank you for taking the time to consider our initiative. Your dedication to promoting social justice and using art as a tool for positive change has been truly inspiring. I believe that Govia aligns with the values you hold dear, and I would be honored to have your support.

Artist’s Launchpad Akron Ohio Program GS3 Speech

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Hello my name is Georgio Sabino III I am an Artist!

Within my artistic practice, I explore four distinct perspectives that shape my work: the adventurous spirit of GS3, the curious eyes of seventh-grade, the serious demeanor of businessmen, and the visionary thinker or futurists. These diverse facets have influenced my body of work, where color and shape intertwine to create a captivating experience on canvas or silk. To embrace the present and the advancements of technology, I incorporate augmented reality (AR) experiences, making my work interactive and engaging for contemporary society.

My ultimate goal is to encourage viewers to slow down and become an integral part of the artwork, allowing them to truly immerse themselves and appreciate the layers, perspectives, and celebration of nature. By providing an opportunity for the viewers to “smell the roses,” I hope to create a profound and contemplative experience. Nature, being a true wonder of the world, serves as the focal point of my art, reminding us of our interconnectedness with the delicate ecosystem we originate from.

Art, much like foreplay, demands active involvement, observation, and comprehension. It should not only be admired for its beauty but also for the intricate and delicate ecosystem it represents. By slowing down and attentively listening to nature, we can uncover the answers that lie right in front of us.

Throughout the Artist Launchpad program, what surprised me the most about myself was my unwavering focus on my passion for creation and my ability to effectively document and share my artistic vision.
I am currently experiencing success by participating in a major show in Cleveland, with another exhibition scheduled for 2024. However, I anticipate further success when I can showcase my work in Paris and New York City.
As an artist, my primary values are rooted in five key principles that shape my artistic practice. I value creativity, seeking inspiration from artists like Basquiat, blending the unexplored to create novel techniques and ideas. Authenticity is essential to me, drawing influence from Romare Bearden, as it allows my work to reflect my multicultural background. I strive for a profound connection between my art and its audience, similar to Francisco Goya’s work. Lastly, I firmly believe in utilizing my art to make a positive impact on individuals and society, as demonstrated in my graduate thesis addressing important issues and inspiring change called Educational Genocide.
Over the next 3-5 years, I have set three goals or intentions as an artist. Firstly, I aim to teach at a fashion school in Paris. Secondly, I intend to establish a presence in Paris with my art and wedding photography. Lastly, I aspire to organize an art and fashion show in the city, incorporating augmented reality (AR). Achieving these goals will require coordinating with the school, securing resources for teaching, investing in photography equipment, continually building my portfolio, marketing my services, obtaining funding for the show, and forming strategic partnerships. Exploring funding opportunities and collaborating with local artists and organizers will be crucial in attaining these objectives.
My artistic practice possesses three unique elements: the fusion of nature, technology, painting, and photography; the observation of fashion trends and the expression of women’s desires; and the creation of mystery and excitement. These elements can be leveraged to communicate about my art in various ways. Through exhibitions and fashion shows, I can showcase the fusion of different mediums, emphasizing the connection between art and fashion. Engaging with the audience through feedback and social media platforms will allow me to involve them in the artistic process. By effectively communicating these unique elements, I can establish a strong brand and identity to attract a wider audience, positioning myself as an innovative artist at the intersection of art, technology, and fashion.

I gained several significant takeaways from the program that I would like to share. Firstly, the program emphasized the immense value of sharing knowledge and experiences through interactions with speakers and fellow artists. This exchange of ideas and insights provided a rich learning experience and underscored the importance of networking.

Secondly, the program highlighted the significance of building a supportive community of artists and nonprofits. Collaborating and uplifting one another fosters inspiration, growth, and mutual success within the artistic community. I found great value in being able to share what I have learned with other artists, whether it was through class discussions or by showcasing my work at the UH Trudy Wiesenberger Gallery. These experiences allowed me to provide firsthand insight into the business side of being an artist and engage my audience effectively.

Lastly, this program has refocused and refined my knowledge and skills, enhancing my artistic practice. It has nurtured my creativity and reinforced the importance of having a supportive artistic community. By participating in this program, I have gained valuable tools to express myself effectively on paper and fostered a deeper understanding of the inherent value of collaboration and support in the arts.

Canvas Rebel: Featuring Georgio Sabino III

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We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Georgio Sabino III a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Georgio , appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I remember when I was in 7th grade art class, I painted a M.C. Esther dragon. That moment was a turning point in my life as I decided on my life goal. I took on the responsibility and pursued my dream. Over the years, I have taken many classes in high school, undergraduate and graduate levels to prove that I can make my dream a reality.

My success in artistic practice is subjective and can vary depending on conquering my aspirations. Some may define success as achieving recognition or fame, while I measure it by the impact of their work on society or by their personal fulfillment and satisfaction. Ultimately, my success in art is defined by the own standards and goals, and it has evolved throughout my career.

As I was growing up, I heard many people express doubts about the potential for financial success in the art field, but I refused to let that discourage me. For me, art knows no boundaries, and I was particularly inspired by the works of Giorgio Armani, who was a prominent fashion designer during my formative years.

I began to identify my goals and aspirations early on and think carefully about my future. While my family was always supportive of me, they also instilled in me the belief that I could be anything I wanted to be “as long as I put my mind to it”. This gave me the confidence to pursue my passion for art and never give up on my dreams.

As I entered high school and continued to hone my craft, I learned about the famous artist Francisco Goya and how he was able to paint for wealthy clients while still capturing the stories of society, such as his paintings about war. This gave me further inspiration to pursue my passion for art while also finding ways to make a living from it.

Over the years, I have worked hard to develop my skills and build my reputation as an artist. I have faced challenges and setbacks along the way, but I have remained committed to my craft and my vision. And as I look back on my journey so far, I am proud of what I have accomplished and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My work is focused on bringing nature indoors, exploring the interplay between traditional and digital art and how we can interact with nature inside our homes, offices, and art galleries. From a social perspective, I am intrigued by the intricate ways in which nature intertwines in our lives, and my series “Artistic Jungle” offers an interactive experience. Through the use of vibrant colors, dynamic shapes, and imagination, my works of art explore the theme of life and death, with a particular emphasis on the vibrancy of life.

My artistic process involves starting with painting a canvas, selecting the palette, and then digitizing it into a splash of color or simply adding it as an original painted image onto one main canvas. I then add my photographs of hummingbirds, dragonflies, and butterflies to the main canvas, while searching for the right composition. Sometimes, I choose not to add the birds and insects, as I see the beauty without them, but I also know that with AR, I can add them later into the canvas virtually.
I pay close attention to symmetry and balance, searching for dramatic lines and tracing vibrant colors to create strong contrasts that enrich my artwork. The addition of Augmented Reality in these works of art stimulates the imagination and challenges the intellect, propelling the viewer towards celestial heights where they can explore, discover, and uncover their polyrhythmic nature’s identities through my work, immersing the viewer in a rich biodiversity.

In the “Artistic Jungle” series, I explore the identity of one of the most incredible environments on earth, showcasing the magnificent ecosystem. Through my art, I aim to inspire a greater appreciation for the natural world and encourage viewers to reflect on our relationship with nature.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

As an artist in today’s world, I find creating life through art to be the most rewarding aspect of my work. From expressing my imagination, co-creating with fellow artists, to sharing my body of work online and in galleries, every step of this journey has been incredibly fulfilling.

As a painter, I have had the privilege of having one-man art shows and selling my works of art. Seeing my creations in galleries, homes, or corporate offices has been a truly fulfilling experience. Additionally, teaching art to K-12 or college students has been a source of joy for me, as I am able to inspire creativity and provide valuable information to the next generation of artists. As an educator, I have been fortunate enough to see my students’ work grace the auction house of Christie’s in New York City or watch my college students win competitions in the city.

Moreover, these experiences keep driving me into spaces that feel completely surreal. I have also found reward in the technological aspect of art. Being patent-pending for a tech innovation and making it into the MIT Solve Tech accelerator program that I created has been a unique accomplishment. It has allowed me to push the boundaries of traditional art and create immersive experiences for viewers (coming soon). I find it extremely satisfying to think about the inner workings of an idea and bring it to life.

As a photographer, I have had the opportunity to photograph major events and people, including The White House twice. It’s wild to be seen or known as a professional photographer as an artist who never thought of themselves as a photographer. But I have covered Annie Leibowitz, Synthia St James, LeBron James, and many more.

Furthermore, as a fashion designer, seeing gorgeous models wearing my clothing on runways and being photographed in the streets of Paris has been so thrilling and mind-blowing. Listening to myself say that these are my fabric designs and garments, and I am photographing my own work in Paris, is a dream come true. Accomplishments are so rewarding when you set out to do something and finish it. It’s been a long journey, but being an artist in today’s world has allowed me to pursue my passions and achieve my goals, and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have come my way.

How did you build your audience on social media?

I’ve been a working artist for over four decades because I knew when I as little what I wanted to do. If there’s one thing I’ve learned during my career, it’s that success in the art world requires more than just talent. It also demands passion, determination, and a strong body of work. Each work of art, article or accolades you can add to your social media.In today’s society, there are countless opportunities for artists to showcase their work, from galleries to social media. However, with so much competition, it’s crucial to stay hungry and driven. Don’t settle for mediocrity or allow yourself to become complacent. Always strive to improve your skills, experiment with new mediums and techniques, and challenge yourself to create something unique and meaningful. As you might have read without it expressed, I love working. I love creating art. I love breathing it every day. I only imagine if I live as long as my grandfather Sabino (108) what will my art look like then.To make a life in the art world, you need to be passionate about your craft. This means immersing yourself in your art, studying the work of other artists, and never losing your curiosity or sense of wonder. Passion is what drives you to create, to push boundaries, and to take risks that others might shy away from. In my case, while in NYC, my fashion show was photographed by Andres Aquino, a well-known fashion photographer (Icon), who inspired me to pick up a camera. I never thought I would be a professional photographer, but after returning home from NYC, I knew that I needed to learn how to use a camera because I was spending too much money on photographers.But passion alone is not enough. You also need to be prepared with a body of work that showcases your talent and creativity. This means building a portfolio that demonstrates your skills across different mediums and styles. It means being versatile, open to feedback, and willing to collaborate with others to create something truly special. So my advice to all artists out there is this: be hungry, be passionate, and be ready with your work. And never forget that success is defined by you.Contact Info:

Website: https://gs3.us/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gs3photographer/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GS3Photography/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgiosabino3/Twitter: https://twitter.com/GS3PhotographyYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcgZRu6pRpYYFCxe3eL7i3AYelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/gs3-photography-columbus-2?osq=gs3+photographyOther: https://gs3photography.pixieset.com/gorgeousweddingsweddingphotography/

Image Credits Adam Fasnacht

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Unveiling the Sculpture & Community Celebration, “Reaching for the Stars,” in Fennville by Hector Vega

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Fennville, MI – The picturesque town of Fennville, known for its rolling hills and thriving wineries, has become a hot spot for tourists seeking a breath of fresh air and a taste of its flourishing agriculture. In a celebration of the local immigrant community, an art event dedicated to honoring those who pick fruits and vegetables in the area took place on Saturday, May 6th. The focal point of the event was the unveiling of a magnificent 12-foot aluminum sculpture, “Reaching for the Stars,” located at the Fennville Library. The entire community came together to rally around this profound work of art, which symbolizes gratitude and appreciation for the immigrants’ vital contributions.

Hector Vega, a highly acclaimed artist renowned for the depth and emotional impact of his works, designed “Reaching for the Stars.” Hector received a well-deserved applause and the attention, the attendees eagerly awaited Hector’s speech to thank the community “This is for all the hardworking people my people who bring the fruits and vegetables to the table,” Dennis the president of the board shared “its great to see everyone here,” and went on sharing the community business and the blessing of Fennville.

The Commercial Record (www.WilcoxNewspaper.com) featuring a captivating photograph of Hector Vega working on the sculpture and article. The Saugatuck Douglas Fennville Arts Initiative (SDFAI) worked diligently on this project, and the article shared Hector Vega’s research included meeting immigrant farmers to understand the local dynamic deeply. Hector expressed, “Your voice has been heard while designing the work of art,” showcasing his commitment to honoring the community’s experiences and stories through his artwork.

The sculpture dedication took place at 400 W Main Street, attracting a massive crowd from 6 pm to 9 pm. Mary Jo Lemanski spearheaded this project, emphasizing the collective effort it took to bring it to life she shared “It took community…unity for this to come together.” The Saugatuck Douglas Fennville Arts Initiative, in collaboration with the City of Fennville and the Fennville District Library, extended an invitation to the community to join them at the sculpture dedication ceremony. The event featured a captivating performance by the Fennville band Grupo Fierro, adding a lively ambiance to the festivities. Additionally, the library housed additional paintings by Hector Vega, offering visitors a comprehensive glimpse into his artistic style.

The ceremony was a delightful celebration among friends, as expressed by one patron, while patrons marveled at the event’s ability to uplift the community, particularly its immigrants. Excitement filled the air, evident in the cheers and awe that accompanied the sculpture’s unveiling. The blue tarp carefully wrapped around the sculpture was finally removed, revealing its magnificence to the eagerly waiting crowd. Dennis, the president of the board, expressed his joy at seeing everyone gathered, while also highlighting sculpture. Everyone was eager to see the second band act and explore the art exhibit downstairs. Several pieces were sold even before, during, and after the event, highlighting the audience’s appreciation for Hector Vega’s remarkable artwork. The art show will remain on display at the library but whispered could find its way to Fernwood art store and maybe floating to other establishments.

The local “must-have” band entertained the audience throughout the event, both before and during the unveiling. Their exceptional performance extended inside the library, where guests were treated to their best musical offerings. One notable highlight was an eleven-year-old musician who showcased their talent by playing several instruments, including an impressive saxophone solo. The Downstairs, dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly to create a memorable experience for attendees. They even coordinated a delightful dinner provided by several local establishments, including Salt of the Earth, known for their famous fish tacos. The chef, pleased with the positive response, expressed their satisfaction, stating, “I shared how to put these ingredients together,” further strengthening the sense of community through shared experiences and culinary delights.

Georgio Sabino III played a crucial role in the event, providing his expertise in photography, augmented reality, and drone services to document this historic moment. Among the highlights was a captivating video presentation showcasing the city from a unique drone perspective. The drone soared to great heights, capturing breathtaking views of the horizon while capturing the essence of the gathering. The video also featured glimpses of downtown, the event itself, and the overall spirit of the Fennville community. The collaboration between Georgio Sabino III and Hector Vega’s artwork was masterfully highlighted in this visual documentation.

The event was undoubtedly a resounding success, thanks in large part to the dedication and hard work of the volunteers. Their meticulous attention to detail, from the beautifully arranged flowers to setting the perfect festive mood, contributed to making the party in Fennville truly unforgettable. The community owes them a debt of gratitude for their commitment and outstanding efforts. Bravo to all involved!

Fennville Comes Together to Honor Immigrants with Art Event: “Reaching for the Stars” Sculpture Unveiled

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Fennville, MI – In a heartfelt tribute to the immigrants who have played a vital role in the local community, Fennville held a remarkable art event on Saturday, May 6th. The event was centered around the unveiling of a stunning 12-foot aluminum sculpture called “Reaching for the Stars,” located at the Fennville Library. The community rallied around this meaningful piece of artwork, which serves as a symbol of gratitude and recognition for the immigrants who tirelessly pick fruits and vegetables in the area.

The artist behind this extraordinary sculpture is Hector Vega, a talented visionary from Cleveland, Ohio. Hector’s works of art are known for their depth and emotional impact, and “Reaching for the Stars” is no exception. The sculpture stands tall and proud, representing the aspirations and dreams of the immigrant community in Fennville. Its design is a result of extensive research and community engagement, with Hector personally meeting and understanding the lives of immigrant farmers in the area.

What makes “Reaching for the Stars” even more special is the integration of Augmented Reality (AR) by Georgio Sabino III, who traveled alongside Hector from Cleveland, Ohio. This cutting-edge technology allows the sculpture to become interactive, enabling the community to enjoy an immersive experience. By using their smartphones or tablets, visitors can unlock additional layers of the artwork, making it a truly engaging and unforgettable encounter. Moreover, a drone YouTube short film will be created to document the exhibit, capturing its essence and impact for posterity.

The unveiling of “Reaching for the Stars” was featured in the April 27th, 2023 issue of The Commercial Record (www.WilcoxNewspaper.com), accompanied by a captivating photograph and an article. The Fennville Library, located at 400 W Main Street, served as the venue for the sculpture dedication, which took place from 6 pm to 9 pm on the designated day. The driving force behind this remarkable project was Mary Jo Lemanski, with the Saugatuck Douglas Fennville Arts Initiative (SDFAI) working closely with the City of Fennville and the Fennville District Library.

The sculpture dedication ceremony featured a performance by the Fennville band Grupo Fierro, further enhancing the festive atmosphere. Additionally, the library showcased other paintings by Hector Vega, providing visitors with a broader glimpse into his artistic journey. It is essential to acknowledge the collaborative effort and support from various organizations and businesses in Fennville, including Fennville Friends of the Library, Salt of the Earth, Root, Blue Goose Cafe, and El Jaripeo.

The “Reaching for the Stars” sculpture dedication event was a testament to the power of art in celebrating and honoring the immigrant community in Fennville. It served as a reminder of the invaluable contributions made by immigrants, while also fostering unity and appreciation within the local community. The sculpture, along with Hector Vega’s art, will continue to inspire and provoke dialogue, leaving a lasting impact on all who encounter it.

Georgio Sabino III: A Fashion Designer Blending Art and Fashion (AR)

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Georgio Sabino III, a fashion designer, fashion photographer, and textile designer, is changing the game with his unique approach to fashion. By combining his love for art and fashion, Sabino creates designs that are bold, flashy, and unlike anything seen in traditional fashion.

Sabino draws inspiration from nature and often incorporates dragonflies, butterflies, and hummingbirds into his designs. He believes that by bringing the natural world into the fashion world, he can create a depth that is often missing in traditional fashion. Sabino’s unique style has a depth that is unseen in the fashion world, and he has quickly made a name for himself in the industry.

One of Sabino’s signature approaches is his use of paintings that are showcased in art galleries as a source of inspiration for his textile designs. After creating these paintings, he then prints the designs on silk and satin fabrics to create couture garments. Sabino designs the garments himself, and seeing them come to life on models who walk the runway fills him with a sense of nirvana (a childhood dream).

Sabino’s work goes beyond just creating couture garments. He also creates AR augmented reality around the fashion runway and art exhibits. He wants his work to be more than just clothing; he wants it to be a full experience for the audience.

Recently, Sabino flew to Paris to photograph his latest couture wardrobe. He worked with two models named Ines and Iga and captured stunning shots around the city during fashion week. The excitement and energy were palpable, and Sabino felt like he was truly living his dream. Upon returning to his studio in Akron, Ohio, he continued to work on his couture garments and photographed them on two models named Ebone and Kyla.

When asked about his inspiration, Sabino said, “I draw inspiration from the natural world and the beauty that surrounds us. I want my work to reflect that beauty and bring it into the fashion world.”

Sabino’s work is a testament to the power of combining different forms of art to create something truly unique. His approach to fashion is refreshing and exciting, and we can’t wait to see what he has in store next.

Life as an Artist & Fashion Designer

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Hello fashion lovers,

Georgio Sabino III here, a fashion designer, fashion photographer, and textile designer. My passion for art and fashion has led me to create designs that blend both worlds, resulting in unique pieces that showcase my bold use of colors and flashy patterns.

I draw inspiration from nature and often incorporate dragonflies, butterflies, and hummingbirds into my designs. By bringing the natural world into the fashion world, I aim to create a depth that is often unseen in traditional fashion.

In addition to my textiles, I also create paintings that are showcased in art galleries. These pieces serve as a source of inspiration for my textile designs, which I then print on silk and satin fabrics to create couture garments. I take great pride in designing the garments myself and seeing them come to life on models who walk the runway.

Recently, I flew to Paris to photograph my latest couture wardrobe, and it was an incredible experience. I worked with two models named Ines and Iga, and we captured stunning shots around the city during fashion week. The excitement and energy were palpable, and I felt like I was truly living my dream.

Upon returning to my studio in Akron, Ohio, I continued to work on my couture garments and photographed them on two models named Ebone and Kyla. Seeing my designs come to life in these photoshoots filled me with a sense of nirvana and overwhelm. It was a surreal feeling to see my paintings, digital designs, and printed fabrics transform into 2D works of art in an art gallery, then into couture garments that models wore on the runway, and finally into photographs.

The entire process of bringing my designs to life in so many different ways has been an incredible journey, and I feel grateful for the opportunity to share my passion with others. Thank you for supporting me on this journey, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me next.

Sincerely,

Georgio Sabino III

Fashion from the Love of Painting

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Greetings fashion enthusiasts,

I am Georgio Sabino III, a fashion designer who also dabbles in textile design and painting. My love for art and fashion has led me to create designs that blend the two worlds together, resulting in unique and stunning pieces that showcase my bold use of colors and flashy patterns.

I draw inspiration from nature, and you can see this reflected in my work as I often include dragonflies, butterflies, and hummingbirds in my designs. By bringing the natural world into the fashion world, I aim to create a depth that is unseen in traditional fashion.

In addition to my textiles, I also create paintings that are showcased in art galleries. These pieces serve as a source of inspiration for my textile designs, and I find that the two mediums work hand in hand to create a cohesive and impactful collection.

To further enhance the experience of my fashion shows and art exhibits, I have introduced augmented reality (AR) technology to create immersive and interactive displays. By doing so, I hope to blur the line between the art world and the fashion world and offer a truly unique and memorable experience for my audience.

Recently, I flew to Paris to photograph my latest couture wardrobe, and I must say, fashion week was in full bloom in and around the city. I am excited to share my latest designs with the world and to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the intersection of art and fashion.

Thank you for your continued support and for joining me on this exciting journey.

Sincerely,

Georgio Sabino III