Have A Heart Project - Food Drive & Art Installation

Jan. 5, 2012 - PRLog -- Lorton, VA—Workhouse Studio 4 is putting an artistic twist on the common (and vital) food drive. Their efforts will benefit Food for Others, the largest distributor of free food directly to people in need in Northern Virginia. They offer assistance to our unemployed and low-income neighbors by providing a safety net for those who suddenly face unforeseen emergencies such as a family illness or the loss of a job or spouse.

Items donated will become components of an interactive art installation which will open to the public on February 11, 2012. Studio 4 artists Mary Gallagher Stout, John Gascot, Lynn Goldstein and Joan Yi will create a variety of food-centric works in an array of mediums and styles, including a live "colorful cooking = healthy diet" demonstration. The exhibit aims to not only speak on topics of health, hunger and consumption, but explore the relationship between artist and community. “We feel there is a lot we so-called “starving” artists can do for others.” says Mary Gallagher Stout. “We feel empowered by creativity.” John Gascot agrees.  The pair will be painting and creating live in the front gallery of Studio 4 during the month of January in an effort to engage visitors early on with the project.

The public can be a part of this exciting art installation and help Northern Virginians in need. Studio 4 visitors can donate canned or non-perishable food items during normal business hours; Wednesday through Saturday from 11 AM – 7PM and Sunday from noon – 5PM. Donations will be welcome through the exhibit’s run. The Have a Heart project will be the subject of a documentary by young filmmaker Makeda Thomas.

Follow the Have a Heart project and other Studio 4 happenings:
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/WorkhouseStudio4 (click 'Events' to R.S.V.P.)
Twitter http://www.twitter.com/WorkStudio4 @WorkStudio4 @mgstout & @LatinPop; #HaveAHeartProject and #ArtMonkeys

Food for Others is Northern Virginia’s primary safety net for those needing food when an emergency strikes. They provide a channel for people to volunteer their services to help their neighbors in need. www.foodforothers.org

Workhouse Arts Center, a vibrant cultural community, is home to over 100 of the region’s finest professional and emerging artists. They offer arts education programs, performance venues, gallery space, event facilities and more. www.WorkhouseArts.org