Behind the Masterpieces: Discover the Inspiring Artists of Our Project Music Fundraiser
Our recent fundraiser was a celebration of creativity and collaboration, spotlighting the fusion of artistry and innovation in support of Project Music. Local artists Suzanne Heilmann, Jess Licata, Lina Morielli, Leigh Grant, Adrienne Reedy, and Margaret Simon brought our vision to life through their stunning hand-painted violins.
Their talent transformed these instruments into captivating works of art, each telling a unique story and inspiring all who beheld them. With the generous support of our community and donors, including a $25,000 matching grant, we've made significant strides in empowering Project Music students on their musical journeys.
As we express our deepest gratitude to all involved, we invite continued support for Project Music's mission of providing accessible music education for all. Together, let's continue to champion the transformative power of music and nurture the next generation of musicians.
Violin painted by Lina Morielli…
Similar to jazz, my compositions are at once frenetic and structured. The violin became my canvas utilizing a mix of symbols, patterns and the improvisational use of materials at hand. The mix of layering with stencils and opaque spray paint colors lends a sense of visual depth. Like my paintings, I wanted to demonstrate abstraction’s ability to communicate internal states and reactions to our shared surroundings - It’s Spring - It’s Music - It’s fun!
Violin painted by Leigh Grant…
…I identified several gods and symbols on my violin that I thought a creative person might like. I was an illustrator for many years and I also love Egypt. I just came back from the Western Desert and the Oases where the tombs, influenced by Greco-Roman civilization, offer a sort of folk interpretation of what you see in centers like Luxor. Looking at the shape of the violin, I though that might work. I chose a younger audience to try to appeal to, Let’s hope someone enjoys the design. If not, it was fun to decorate it. I write nowadays but if you look at my website, on the second page, you will see a pop up book on Ancient Egypt and another on Ancient Rome. These open up to a three-dimensional size of about three feet and are fully rendered (and not folk art). Project Music is a wonderful idea that has come to fruition. Congratulations on an ongoing job well done!
Violin painted by Margaret Simon…
The inspiration for my painting was the promise of spring and of the beautiful possibilities that music can bring to a child’s life.
In addition to being a Greenwich Pen Women I am a member of the National Association of Women Artists. I also belong to the Greenwich Art Society, the Art Society of Old Greenwich, the New Canaan Art Society and am an Exhibiting Member at the Rowayton Arts Center.
Violin painted by Adrienne Reedy…
I call this piece “Joy Giver”
For me, hummingbirds are a gift from God. Their beauty brings me such joy as does painting them. Musical instruments like the violin also bring me joy. I think about the joy that will be released into the world when it’s placed in the hands of its beholder. May the beauty of the hummingbirds be a reminder that this instrument and well as the musician playing it, like the hummingbirds, are joy givers!
Violin painted by Suzanne Heilmann…
Spring is a time for new beginnings where everything comes alive.
The colors in all their hues with a fresh and vibrant palette, the birds symphony awakening the world with their song and the earthy smells that enrich our spirit after the rain.
Spring brings out the best in us, after a cold and grey winter of hibernation. It’s a time of discovery as we come out of our shells, gather and share in its miraculous beauty.
Music is a huge part of all our lives, as it encapsulates time, memories, our relationships and a reflection of past experiences. Our own private journal through life. Like fingerprints, no two diaries will ever be the same.
Many an artist are inspired at this time of year, as we tap into our senses, feel rejuvenated and excited about our new possibilities. Every day we are blessed with nature’s artistry, as well as sharing our own interpretation of this gift.
Violin painted by Jess Licata…
While creating this piece i was inspired by the playful ways of jackson pollock, and felt like adding the brightness of life onto the violin and encapsulating the golden thread of gratitude by gilding gold leaf onto her. i thought this would be the most playful of ways for these magnificent little musicians to start + flourish in their musical journey.
