Just Harvest addresses hunger in Allegheny County not simply by concentrating on hunger in its own right, but on how it exists as a symptom of the larger condition of economic injustice. As a result, their work branches out in multiple directions, with the focus we’d anticipate on school meals, food distribution, food access, and nutritional assistance, but also things like tax preparation, voter registration, and minimum wage reform. This holistic approach results in a wide range of programs and events that allow for participation and support in diverse and ever-evolving ways.
It’s a methodology that applies to their fundraising as well, and they continually offer ways to learn and support that are not only effective but intriguing. JustART: Transformative Voices of Advocacy, coming up soon, is one great example.
A Call for Artists is currently in progress, inviting makers to submit on themes and topics that intersect with Just Harvest’s mission- works that “confront, critique, and transform conversations around social justice… stories and perspectives on food justice and imbalanced social systems to inspire change and reform through advocacy”.
Creators will receive 60% of proceeds from any work sold, with the remaining 40% going to Just Harvest’s programs; artists are also welcome to show work that is not available for purchase. Viable formats are 2D, 3D, video, performance, and photography (physical prints), and measurement smaller than 4’ X 5’.
For consideration, artists need to submit this form, along with photographs of applicable works, by Friday, October 4th at 11 pm. Selected pieces will need to be delivered by Friday, October 11th.
The opening reception will be held on Thursday, October 24th, from 7- 10 pm. While the last installment of justART was held at the organization’s South Side offices, this time around they’re traveling to the larger space of the Irma Freeman Center for the Imagination in Bloomfield, a space familiar to patrons of the local visual art community as a longtime site for exploration of the city’s cultural landscape, as well as a rich source of educational opportunities for children and adults alike. The event will feature a meet and greet with the artists, cocktails and small bites, and the opportunity to participate in a community art project.
Tickets are available now, as well as sponsorship opportunities for individuals, organizations and businesses to contribute to Just Harvest’s work on a larger level. Get yours today, and check back with us soon for more details on participating artists and purveyors as they come together!
