Hearts for Arts Nayarit
There’s a new Civil Association, or A.C. in town and July 3rd marked their inaugural meeting. Hearts for Arts, based in Bucerias, will serve students in Nayarit by providing support and encouragement to developing young artists.
This project has been long in the making, with many hours of hard work and dedication to create, evolve and advance the Association. The General Assembly members; Christy Beguesse, Suzanna de Toro, Cari Cook, Donna Hastings, and Sharon and Marshall Parker, are no strangers to fundraising and volunteerism, having many combined years of successful experience. The Assembly will spearhead the organization of fundraisers to cover such events as the annual Bucerias Chalk Art Walk, concerts and art shows.
At their first meeting, Chaired by Christy, the concept and planned roll-out of the Association was introduced to various members of the local art scene. I was pleased to have been invited, and I happily share the exciting news with you.
Christy welcomed the guests and introductions followed. Representing a varied cross section of the arts, just some of those in attendance were; Veronica Gomez, Director of Manos de Amor; Caesar Medina, professional musician and charcoal portraitist; Gabriella Raigosa and Helena Morales, dance and yoga instructors; Professor of Tourism from Universidad Tecnologico, La Cruz; Marshall Parker, charitable foundation expert and community supporter.
I happened to catch a few quotes as the round-table introductions were made.
“I am here to share and learn and to make a difference.”
“Art is important for the world.”
“I love what I do so much that I love sharing it with people.”
“It is a blessing to be here and we want to work together.”
“This is a special day.”
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Hearts for Arts Nayarit Charter
Mission:
To Empower the Youth in Nayarit through Art Education and Mentoring
Vision:
Starting in Bucerias, we envision building communities where every youth has access to a diverse portfolio of artistic materials and programs to inspire creativity. We will create and nurture a network of schools, artisans, and affiliate organizations to ensure reliable access to mentors, workshops, and community needs to support art education and emerging young artists.
By 2024 We will have Detailed Programs Around:
- Arts Supplies and Art Education for Local Schools
- Community Events and Beautification Projects
Highlighting Art and Culture
- Pursuing the Arts as a Profession:
i.e. Judged Events, Internships, Grants, Scholarships
- Strategic Partnerships and Sustainable Fundraising
Strategic Philosophies
We Believe:
- Exploration of the arts develops creative and critical thinking skills in our youth and prepares them for social, academic and professional success.
- Long-term success requires open, ongoing communication with local communities to align investment and growth strategies with local needs.
- Unleashing collaborative potential within hearts and minds of professional artists and mentors will empower the Youth of Nayarit.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Hearts for Arts Value Statement
FOR The Arts and Children We provide education, consulting and resources to our communities to ensure that children have access to art education. We are always learning, always stretching to ensure that our community and schools have the tools they need to provide children the opportunity to explore their artist gifts and imagination. We believe we can change lives.
POWER OF COLLABORATION We are all about relationships, collaboration and teamwork. We invest our time, expertise and resources to promote collaboration with others in the community. We actively seek strategic partnerships to leverage this work. We are focused on supporting schools and other art programs whatever their mission to increase their impact. We believe by working together anything is possible. When we join forces with those around us we all go further than we ever could alone.
Deliver on Our Commitments We do whatever it takes to delight our partners. We support and share responsibility with members of our team. We focus on a few key priorities and ensure we deliver with quality on time…every time. If we see an issue, we fix it. If we see an opportunity to accelerate our success, we take it.
Continuous Learning We are passionate about learning and seek to constantly improve and innovate. We are not afraid to make mistakes. We will challenge the status quo. We learn from others and from our challenges & successes.
Integrity and Respect Integrity is the defining quality of our people and our work. We strive to do the right thing always, act truthfully and honorably, and be unafraid in being our true self. We strive to build an environment of trust and respect because without it we can never succeed.
Inclusion Inspires Us We’re not all the same. We believe that is our greatest strength. We draw on our differences to be the best at what we do because the more perspectives we have, the better decisions we make. Our inclusive culture inspires us to try new things, speak openly, and be bold. It brings us together in ways that help us stand out. It empowers all of us to connect, belong, and grow. We don’t just accept difference—we celebrate it, we support it, and we thrive on it. We are committed to equality regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, lifestyle, age, educational background, national origin, religion or physical ability.
Be A Great Team and Make it Fun We’re not just here to take a journey, we’re here to share one with each other because the impact we have is always greater when we work together. We work hard, but we like to have a good time too.
Communicate Openly and Honestly We will always be proactively open and honest; say what we believe. We will listen to others, be respectful of each other’s point of view and be fully present in conversations.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
How You Can Help
Creating a website, administration costs, supplies, legal paperwork – these necessities require capital. The Association is seeking donations and “Visionary Partners” to provide startup costs. Whether the donation be a personal one or a corporate endorsement, the funds will provide much needed support to Hearts for Arts as they literally build a strong Foundation. Visionary Partners, with a minimum donation, will be listed on all future Hearts for Arts publications.
Follow Hearts for Arts Nayarit here: https://www.facebook.com/111079701212112/posts/119214273731988/?d=n
Hearts for Arts was founded by Christy Beguesse, a long time Bucerias artist originally from California. Christy is well known locally in art circles, having introduced Bucerias’ weekly Art Walk in 2005/6. In addition, she is usually at the root of “artsy” events in Bucerias such as the annual Chalk Art Walk Festival, the Day of the Dead Festival, or the organizing of art classes for students in area schools.
