Support my tuition to attend Columbia University

Hi friends,

I want to take just a second of your time to tell you about something really special happening in my life. A couple months ago I applied to do a summer painting intensive course & residency at Columbia university in New York. In that moment it felt like a long shot and I didn’t think too much about it. A couple weeks ago I was stunned and thrilled to receive my acceptance. This course will give me mentorship, guidance, and education from some of the best contemporary painters in the world. I’ll be learning from professionals that have shown their work at the MET, Whitney, amongst other world class institutions. I feel so honoured to get the chance to learn from them.

Coming from Saskatoon, it can feel hard to make a big leap like this towards goals so far away. This opportunity comes with a large price tag and the reality of my current situation is that I can not do it alone.

The tuition for this course is $23 716.64 Canadian dollars.

Those close to me know how hard I have been pushing my artwork throughout the last year, at times it’s felt like I’ve been in deep trenches with a heavy load on my back- this feels like such a beacon of joy in my life to feel recognized and worthy. It’s reminded me not to stop, and that I am good enough to keep going.

Art is the joy in my life, it’s my absolute passion. It’s connected me to so many people that have brought so much light into my life, and in turn I hope that I have been able to do the same through my work. Today I humbly ask for your consideration to donate towards this life changing opportunity. In turn, every person that donates will be entered to win a custom work of art. The winner will be able to fully customize the work in (almost) unlimited size, palette, subject and more. We will work collaboratively to design something that is a true reflection of you in the most special way. All proceeds from this fundraiser will go directly towards my tuition. You can feel good knowing that you’re lifting me up in the most beautiful way, while entering for a chance to win a beautiful custom work.

My story and work has been built on small joys, small moments of connection, little messages of love, and the tiniest unintentional acts that have made me feel believed in. Every interaction through the development of my practice whether it be a liked photo, visiting an exhibition, or words of encouragement have all incrementally played a role in getting me here today.

I hope you know that every donation, nomatter what size, warms my heart in a way that makes me feel believed in. And there’s no way to express enough gratitude for that.

Every one of you here, reading my story, thank you from the very bottom of my heart.

xx

Hailey