I was invited to participate in the Anti Defamation League’s Mountain States Region fall fundraiser. Artworks ADL: Justice, Advocacy and Art event incorporating the theme “Imagine a World Without Hate”.
Their theme drew me back to my childhood and my most recent sculpture “Leading the Way”. I began writing my artist statement as I remembered my first memorable experience with the natural world.
That evening on November 12, 2013, The Anti-Defamation League honored the Quiat family for it’s five generations of dedication to civil rights. In honor of the late Gerald Quiat, former Regional Board Chair and National Commissioner of ADL, the Quiat family announced they will underwrite the cost of sending high school students in the Mountain States Region to join the Anti-Defamation League’s Youth Leadership Mission. Their generous investment in ADL will enable a culturally and religiously diverse group of high school students to join other youth from across the country as they explore the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC.
I was honored that night as I learned that Melinda Quiat, daughter of Gerald, had selected my work “Leading the Way” to inspire her everyday in her home.
Imagine a World Without Hate
My work “Leading the Way” refers to leaders who establish boundaries and lead others as they protect those who cannot defend themselves.
The scissortail flycatcher, part of the Kingbird family is easily identified by their exceptionally long tail feathers and sharp midair twist and turns. After pairing up, both males and females defend their territory and nest with amazing aerial chases and attacks on larger red tailed hawks, turkey vultures, crows and blue jays. By watching these entertaining acrobats and listening to their melodic voices, their true natural behavior becomes evident. I first observed these unusual birds as a five year old, and continue to be mesmerized. Through leadership, observation and awareness, we can “Imagine a World Without Hate”.
