**GoFundMe Statement:**

Hello, my name is Katie Fogg, and I am a local artist and educator in the vibrant community of New London, CT. I recently completed my first year of a unique and transformative art program called "Your HeART Space." This program, which focuses on empowering youth and individuals of all ages, was inspired by my extensive experience in both human services and art-based collaborations. My deep passion for blending art and wellness has shown me how essential it is to understand ourselves from within and use that awareness to navigate the world around us more effectively.

After years of experience in social work, education, and personal reflection, I was inspired to create a program that is rooted in love, creativity, and the power of self-discovery. As the world around us constantly changes, I believe communication, collaboration, and compassion are the cornerstones of building a more unified world. We start this journey by focusing on one community at a time, and I’m incredibly grateful to the City of New London for funding the launch of "Your HeART Space," a program dedicated to nurturing the artistic talents of New London’s emerging artists.

In our classes, we do more than just teach students how to draw and paint—we emphasize the art of observation and mindfulness. This approach helps foster a strong sense of self-awareness, allowing students to break free from negative thought patterns and shift their focus to positive perspectives. We also emphasize the importance of teamwork and collaboration. The students created an array of traditional artwork with a contemporary twist, all while embracing their imaginations. Through hands-on art projects, group interactions, and thoughtful reflection, it was truly amazing to witness each student's personal growth throughout the 12-week program.

To celebrate the success of the program, we held a student exhibition that showcased over 100 pieces of student artwork. Each artist proudly kept 100% of the proceeds from the sale of their work. The students learned invaluable lessons about effort, creativity, community, and the true value of their work—and themselves.

Now, we want to continue this incredible journey and with the support of your donations, we aim to raise $8,000 to fund another 12 weeks of programming for 16 new students. This funding will cover hours of curriculum development, teaching, volunteer coordination, classroom instruction, materials, and the costs for a final exhibition to showcase the students' incredible work.

On behalf of my students and myself, I ask for your help to bring "Your HeART Space" back for another round of artistic exploration and personal growth. Every contribution, no matter how small, will directly support the next generation of young artists in our community. Together, we can create a space where creativity thrives and lives are transformed.

If you are a local in New London, CT and would like to purchase art work please created by Your HeART Space students, please visit the Garde Arts Center to view the exhibit and purchase what speaks to you! You can contact me directly via email or head to my website to view the collection (on view soon!!)

Website: katiefogg.com and gardearts.org

Garde Arts Center: 325 State Street New London, CT 06320

View Lobby Exhibit: Tuesday - Fri 10am-5pm

Show runs June 1st- 31st 2025

FUNDRAISER Reception takes place : June 13th 5-8pm

Thank you for supporting our mission!

From the Kids at Your Heart Space and Founder Katie Fogg