There’s one obvious answer to the question “How can I support local artists?” and that is- buy art! But for those who want to go a step further, art patrons like Trent Cowles get a little bit creative. Cowles, a Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor and President of the Harrison Center’s Board of Directors, is doing his part by sponsoring artist Benny Sanders’ studio for a year. Cowles was first struck by the gentle beauty of Sanders’ work at a First Friday event over two years ago when Sanders first arrived at the Harrison Center. Last year, Cowles attended an Art Dish where Sanders spoke about his show “Ricochet” and the two got to know each other better. They connected again at this month’s First Friday where Sanders’ work was on exhibit again in the Harrison Gallery. Cowles says, “I spoke briefly with Benny and his transparency reminded me how tough this time has been, especially for artists. I wanted to help in a tangible way and it seemed like having his studio secured for the next year may lighten his load and allow him to focus on continuing to produce his incredible art.”

One of Benny’s pieces that first struck a chord with Trent

Benny at one of his shows in the Harrison Gallery

This isn’t the first time that someone has offered studio sponsorship to a Harrison Center artist. Around 11 years ago, local attorney Paul Hunt came by to purchase a few paintings, and asked what else he could do to help local artists. Over the next several years, he sponsored the studios of multiple artists, making a huge difference in their ability to create. Currently, another patron is also pitching in for part of Johnny McKee’s studio rent.

For artists, having studio space is often central to being able to work consistently. For strictly practical reasons, having a space away from home to make, store, and display art creates a separation of life and work (which is something we can especially appreciate these days). Its also a valuable form of exposure with open studio events where the public can wander in, stay and chat, and make purchases. But perhaps most importantly, in a building full of other artists there is the opportunity for inspiration, collaboration, and socializing. Artists often make connections with each other to share tips and techniques or offer encouragement. Sanders describes the Harrison Center as, “built-in community” saying, “its so easy to just look out your door and ask someone if they want to go painting or have someone come in and look at a painting.” But when times are tough, keeping up with studio rent can be a burden.

Studios provide valuable space for artists to work together

For many artists, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to reduced exposure and losses in sales. But that does not mean that there is any less need for them and their work. Cowles expresses this as why he feels compelled to help out: “Artists of all types contribute significantly to the fabric of our community- I can’t imagine Indy without local artists. Art can be instrumental in rebuilding an even better city. I know the life, truth, and beauty that Benny and other Harrison Center artists have brought me and so many others. We can all reach out to those artists that have positively impacted us and boosted our spirits in tough times, and now return the favor to help them make it through this unprecedented time. Art helps us process, understand, and deal with challenges and change which we need now more than ever.”

If you’re interested sponsoring part or all of an artists’ rent, you can get in touch with Joanna Taft at jtaft@harrisoncenter.org. You can also see Benny Sanders’ current show “I Will Wait by the River” online or make an appointment to see it in person until the end of August by emailing speacock@harrisoncenter.org

A Creative Way to Help Local Artists