Honoring Creativity

Honoring Creativity 
 
We are seeking funds to create a public sculpture, inspired by a beloved member of the Midland, Michigan community, and also in honor of people like her who inspire creativity in their communities everywhere.  

While some are born with an innate love of the arts, others are inspired by someone special—a teacher, a mentor, a volunteer, in all cases a passionate and caring person who has taken the time and energy to lead us into our hearts and imagination. 

Jan List, who died recently, realized her artistic calling after retiring from Community Mental Health Services.  She worked with the mentally ill, she worked with fragile juveniles, and she worked with friends and community members all to open them to the power of the art. 

Our proposal is to create a public sculpture at the Creative 360 in Midland, Michigan that will honor Jan and others like her who open the path of creativity for those around them.  

Jan List was an individual who was a leader and inspiration to people who sought to express themselves and their lives through art. As we, Jan’s family and friends, pursue this endeavor, we realize this sculpture has a broader meaning than the story of one life. It will honor of all of those whose path it is to inspire. It is fitting that in Jan’s death, as in her life, she continues to awaken the best in each of us. 

Fine Artist Todd Burroughs has conceived a sculpture that will consist of three pillars, covered in mosaic tile, a favorite medium of Jan’s. The columns represent legacy, creativity, and family/community. The piece will be titled Yesterday, Today, and Always.  While it will it will be created in Jan’s memory, it will be dedicated to all those whose passion it is to create, who show others the abundance of the artistic path, and share a special joie de vivre with all they meet. 

Jan’s family and friends have already contributed several thousand dollars to this project, but we need an additional $10,000 to make it happen.  

If you have read this far, you probably already know the individual who stands out for you. We are asking you to honor them by helping us to create a lasting tribute to their lives and the gifts they shared. 

Gifts of all sizes are welcome. Those who contribute $100 or more are welcome to have their names and the person they honor on the permanent plaque.
  
Example:John and Jane Doe in honor of Susan Smith 

As we look at the forces at work in the world today, this project stands as an opportunity to build a lasting tribute to joy.   

Thank you.