The Beauty That Surrounds Us…

Jay shares thoughts on the beauty of art and how it inspires us.

Whether it’s music, a painting, theater, dance or some other form of art, there is something about art that inspires us. There is a certain beauty – often hard to describe – that simply speaks to us with a vibe all its own. When we experience art, we feel an interesting blend of peace, yet positive inspiration at the same time. In our efforts to revitalize communities with our Sunshine Movement, one of our findings has been that ‘art leads the way.’ When artists move into a community or simply become active, there is an awakening of the human spirit. A leaning forward, an openness to embrace one another, to share, to take risk. Essentially, an inspiration to grow. We in New Hampshire are particularly fortunate to have art that is imbued throughout our many small towns and communities – becoming a part of the very fabric of our lives. Art transcends the boundaries of language and culture, serving as a universal connector among people from diverse backgrounds. For instance, an evocative piece of music can transport us back to cherished memories or inspire us to take action in our lives. Similarly, a breathtaking painting can ignite a spark of creativity within us, urging us to express ourselves in ways we never thought possible. In essence, art acts as a mirror reflecting our innermost feelings and experiences, encouraging a profound sense of understanding and empathy among individuals. Moreover, the process of creating art can be as impactful as the finished piece itself. Artists often pour their hearts and souls into their work, channeling their emotions into a tangible form that resonates with viewers. This journey of self-expression fosters a sense of community, as sharing one’s art invites dialogue and connection. Ultimately, the magic of art lies in its ability to remind us of our humanity. In times of uncertainty, art stands as a beacon of hope, challenging us to reflect on our values and dreams. Whether it’s a spirited dance performance that captures the essence of joy, a powerful theatrical production that tackles poignant social issues, or a simple street mural that sparks conversation, art has a unique way of igniting change and inspiring action. It lifts our spirits and prompts us to not only appreciate beauty but also to consider how we can impact the world around us. Art is a catalyst for inspiration that can propel us toward a brighter, more connected future.

This week we are delighted to highlight a leader in both art and charitable efforts – Benjamin Archibald. What do Voices Against Violence, Best Buddies New Hampshire, and Kidneys for Kindness all have in common? They are all nonprofit organizations that have been blessed by the incredible talent of artist Benjamin Archibald. Ben was a founding board member of Kidneys for Kindness and has played a pivotal role in driving fundraising efforts for all three organizations through innovative and engaging art projects. While attending a leadership and character development workshop, Ben conceived the idea of fingerprint art as a way to raise both awareness and funding. His vision stemmed from a desire to include hundreds of people in the creation of a single piece of art. “My process allows for a ‘paint by number’ style with a more personal, almost emotional contribution to the canvas,” he explains. Many of his projects feature a canvas meticulously inscribed with up to 5,000 letters within a grid of small squares. Participants make a donation, select a paint color, dip their fingertip in, and leave their mark in a corresponding square. Each letter has a designated paint color, gradually revealing a larger image as the community contributes. Over the past few years, Ben’s fingerprint art has helped raise thousands of dollars while shining the spotlight on these incredible causes. His ability to connect people through creativity has not only provided much-needed financial support but has also fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose. Beyond his philanthropic art projects, Ben has expanded his artistic reach by opening a paint-and-sip bar in Bristol, NH. This space offers art classes, social gatherings, and a premier venue for events, furthering his mission of bringing people together through creative expression. In addition to his community-focused work, Ben is also known for his breathtaking lifelike drawings of birds, animals, and other subjects. A New England native, Ben finds solace in the forests and mountains of the northeastern United States. As the middle child of five and a father of three, he describes himself as a simple man who finds great peace in creating art and exploring the natural beauty of our planet. His work can be found in galleries in Boston, with more locations likely to showcase his talent in the future. To learn more about Benjamin Archibald and his work, visit his personal webpage: [link removed] For more about his business and creative offerings, check out: [link removed]

Quote of the Week

"Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." – Pablo Picasso

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