This Thanksgiving, we asked ArtLifting artists what they were thankful for. Here’s what they had to say:
“For each day. For farmers who bring fruits and flowers to my urban life. For water. For forgiveness. For lovers of art. For you.” — Jo Jackson
“I’m soooo thankful after a long day having a home to go to. I see so many homeless people; it hits me hard.” — Judi (JMW)
“I am grateful that my art allows me to express my physical condition lovingly and with compassion. It helps me be compassionate towards others. I am grateful that my art touched others with beauty. I am grateful that I can be a part of Artlifting and illustrate that those with disabilities make up a community that is spreading perseverance through creativity. I am grateful that my art is a reflection of living as my true self.” — Cynthia Perdigao
“The ability through Art, to control the chaos that is my mind. The magic of focus on a single point.” — E. Lewis Basher
“I'm thankful for family and friends during this thanksgiving. I'm also thankful for god blessing me with the artistic talents to create my artwork. I'm also very thankful to be a Artlifting artist as well. I'm also thankful for connecting with a great friend this year. Everyday is a blessing. Everyone have a Happy Thanksgiving.” — Kevin Munster
“I'm thankful for another year of companionship from my senior dog, Murray.” — Jeff Roysdon
“I'm thankful for having found housing I can afford. I'm setting up my studio in the bedroom and soon will have new artwork to share. Thanks to everyone at ArtLifting for running an enterprise that gives me the confidence to keep creating!” — Laura Kupac
“I am thankful for sharing my passion for creating art and for the chance to share my passion with others. I am thankful for the support and encouragement that I receive from some very caring people.” — Andrew Weatherly
“I am thankful for the higher power, who stepped into my life and made it possible for me to earn more. As an artist, I am constantly compromising my worth for the buyer who is always lacking in finances. I would like to thank those who help me to stand my ground and defend my worth.” — Jeff Powers
“I am thankful for every breath I still take. For fresh air and water, friends, my sobriety, and trying to remain open-minded and teachable every day.” — Katie Hickey
“It's been an interesting year, while I've enjoyed continuing success with Artlifting, I have seen the passing of some dear friends and family. So I guess when it comes to being grateful I'd have to say I'm thankful for the gift of life and the blessing of having friends and family in it.” — Scott Benner
“My Grandma! She is 108 years old and I love her everyday. I love my family and my staff. I'm thankful that I can make art.” — Mia Brown
"I'm thankful for my health, both physical and mental, to all those who support and love me.” — Susan Spangenberg
“I am thankful in 2016 that I have found an art organization that is allowing me to showcase my art again. ArtLifting has given me the courage to open myself up again on a creative level where I am expressing wonderful and soulful art.” — Christine Nelson
What are you thankful for?