A new art exhibit is taking a step in a different direction at FOUND:RE Phoenix. The exhibit, Inspired Soles, aims to raise awareness of the homeless community in Arizona.
The mission started off by holding a “meet the artist” reception on First Friday. The exhibit showcased artwork including watercolor and sketches from patients of Circle the City, a non-profit community health organization dedicated to providing health care to people experiencing homelessness in Maricopa County.
Director of development, Kimberly Hall, plays an active role in leadership and volunteer work in the organization.
“Our goal is to make sure the community is aware of people experiencing homelessness and show that many of them have healthcare needs,” Hall said. “We wanted to focus on the gifts and talents of the patients that we were able to serve. We know that there is healing in the art, so we want to showcase that for everyone to see.”
Visitors had the opportunity to meet the artist and purchase any of the work that was shown. All proceeds from the sale directly benefit each of the patient artists who created work for the exhibit. Over 50 works of art were unveiled and can be purchased throughout the month.
Patrons were also able to help by donating a pair of new or slightly used shoes for the patients at Circle the City.
Former patient at Circle the City, Michael Rilley, was one artist who showcased his artwork at the event.
Rilley was homeless for about 2-3 weeks after experiencing trouble paying for his rent. He also learned he had Bradycardia, a slowing of the heart. He found Circle the City through his primary care doctor.
“There are many wellness and therapy programs that are incorporated in Circle the City,” Rilley said. “When I got there, many things changed. Good things started happening.”
Rilley now leads weekly art classes for patients at Circle the City. The classes are open to all forms of art.
“I wanted to do the right thing and give back to all of the talented employees and staff,”
Rilley said, “They gave me time to heal and time to figure things out.”
Mike Oleskow, the cultural curator for FOUND:RE works with local artists, like Rilley, and chooses artwork to display at the hotel.
“I really want the artist to feel like they have a place here and that this is their home too. I want them to be proud to come in and see their work being displayed,” Oleskow said. “I love that I can do shows like this for Circle the City and for the community along with bringing awareness to issues like homelessness.”
Proceeds throughout the month of November will benefit Circle the City and their mission to address the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness.
Contact the reporter at zoey.shircel@asu.edu.
