MySLArt Recovery

For nearly six years I was part of an amazing team of passionate people who ran MySLart.org. My St. Louis Art was a testament to the vision and heart of its visionary Don Erickson, its devoted founder Jenny Churchill, and the numerous volunteers and artists that supported it. As a team, we hosted a monthly art show every single month, without a single break. Yet our tireless effort developed into something we never expected: we were legitimizing art as a real job. We kicked off many now successful independent artists' careers, many made connections that earned them gallery representation, some found jobs as teachers or arts administrators, while younger or more inexperienced artists were able to get that show experience that may have been intimidating otherwise.

The last few years of this organization were rough. We were all burnt out and overworked. Despite our best efforts, we simply lacked the capacity to maintain or even evolve into a successful organization. It just wasn't sustainable. With a relieved sadness, we decided to pull the plug at the end of 2018.

Unfortunately that wasn't the end of it, which is where I am asking for help. I realized that the organization was overdue on several tax filings. Being the now former President, I was the one left holding the bag, as it should be. This was -- and still is -- my responsibility, but even after pursuing many avenues and resources available, I still find myself in need of help. I cannot cover these costs myself.

Part of me feels ashamed for not doing more, for giving up, for failing this organization. Yet I am reminded that St. Louis's arts community is thriving and carries on the collaborative and supportive spirit of MySLArt even in its absence. This community truly means so much to me, and I hope that you can help me close out this important chapter. With my sincerest gratitude, thank you in advance for any support you can give.

If the funds received exceed the amount needed, all extra will be donated to Art St. Louis.