Artists are often a fiercely independent bunch. They live close to the edge financially and physically. One of the best examples of that independent spirit is Joe Alexander of Fayetteville, Arkansas. He lives a sparse life and makes his living by mostly making hand-lettered signs for local businesses. His lettering is World Class. The winter is hard on people and on a fringe artist like Joe even more so. Joe got so sick this winter that he couldn’t gather the strength to haul in the firewood that heats his home in the woods south of Fayetteville. Last week his physical condition worsened while working on a sign for a business in Rogers. A friend brought him to the emergency room. Treatment for liver problems and severe dehydration helped immensely, but it will be hard to carry on.

We asked Joe what he would like from a GoFundMe campaign, and he said his dream would be to have $500 a month to live on to rebuild his life as a working artist. Three months’ living expenses would be $1500. How many of us can live on $500 a month (and make art while we’re at it)? We hope that this campaign helps to meet his dreams.