On March 11^th, 2011 the people of Japan (and the world) were forever changed by an earthquake and tsunami that brought unthinkable devastation and destruction.  I, as well as the whole world continue to bear witness with saddened hearts as the events and challenges continue to evolve.  In the hours/days and weeks that have followed, the outpouring of love and support for Japan has continued to grow.  Sendai, Japan was closest to the epicenter of the earthquake and subsequent tsunami, and sustained the most damage and devastation.

Here in Dallas, Texas, we have a very special connection, as Sendai, Japan and Dallas have been Sister-Cities as well as International Friendship Cities since 1997, as well as part of the Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth.  Through this partnership our cities have shared in the mutual benefit of promoting and cultivating cultural experiences and understanding, as well as educational exchange programs and the further development of positive economic relations.

The events of March 11^th were and continue to be heartbreaking, but through this we have been reminded that we are all connected on this planet and we have been given a gift…the opportunity to reach out to the beautiful people (our brothers and sisters) of Japan and help them heal.

This Saturday, April 9th, 2011 from 7pm-12am YOU have a wonderful opportunity to get involved and join in the beautiful patchwork of humanity event called “Flood of Emotion-Artists Healing JAPAN Fundraiser.”  I am honored and inspired to count myself as a contributing artist/photographer for this incredible event along with over 140 local artists, photographers, sculptors, chefs, poets and performers as we gather together at Allied Stone for a FREE night of entertainment in order to raise money for Japan and Sendai.  The event will feature amazing  local entertainment as well as 200+ pieces of art for sale and a silent art auction. 100% of the money raised and donated will go towards the beneficiaries of UNICEF for medication and aid to those needing immediate medical help, as well as one other beneficiary which will be announced on Friday.

An inspirational fact from the event website states that “Artists as far as New York City have donated their original art works to be auctioned.  One of the most touching contributions is that of Manasha Garcia, who is donating three etchings by Jerry Garcia of the Greatful Dead, along with a work of her own and a print by their daughter Keelin Garcia.”

In addition to hosting our event, Allied Stone will donate $1 for every new “Like” on their Facebook page (up to $3,000) from now until April 9^th, 2011!  Please spread the word to your friends, even if they (or you) cannot make it to the event, you can still help by “liking” their page!

As stated on the Facebook Event Page—

THIS event will be FREE to attend but any donation amount is appreciated.

WE WILL HAVE – Free valet + Art sales + Silent art auction + Silent “cool stuff” auction & sales + Photo wall -Interactive “Sister City message wall” + Bar + Local chef created food/snacks + Live local music acts + Local all-star dj’s + Local poets + Spoken word artists + Acoustic artists + BodyART + Free Red Bull + Free Vitamin Water + You + A Friend + A Donation = Us all doing our part!

Artists Healing Japan
When: Saturday, April 9th, 2011 from 7pm-12am
Where: Allied Stone, 2405 Crown Road, Dallas, TX 75229
Cost: FREE!