Second print run of #artfeltTHANKS yard signs will be available June 12

The first signs printed in the #artfeltTHANKS project out before the signs could be printed. The second group of signs should be available around June 12, so there’s still time for people to order at valleyarts.org/artfeltthanks.

“The arts are vital to our lives,” ACV Executive Director Jenny Burden said. “We especially realize that importance during this crisis, when our hearts are lifted – and connected – through visual and performing arts experiences shared online when we can’t be together.”

Through #artfeltTHANKS, local artists use their talents to thank those putting their lives on the line during these demanding times. Proceeds from yard sign sales will be split equally between artists and the RMH Foundation Crisis Response Fund.

Arts Council of the Valley and Rockingham Fine Arts Association (formerly Spitzer Art Center) are collaborating with Riner Rentals on the project.

Participating artists are Bahir Badry, Angus Carter, Gayle Hatcher Driver, Barb Gautcher, Zach Gesford, Jeff Guinn, Brenda Hounshell, Kathleen Johnston, Tyler Kauffman, Lana Lambert, Elwood Madison, Keith Mills, Morgan Fink Paixao, Emily Quesenberry, Karen Robertson, Viktoriya Samoylov, Ashley Sauder Miller, Katie Schmid, Brandy Somers and Joshua Leland Yurges.

Artist stipend sponsor is Riner Rentals. Print sponsors are Bank of the James, GreeneHurlocker PLC, HCPS Fine Arts, and Truck It.

Yard signs are available for online purchase ($25 each) at valleyarts.org, where sign pickup/delivery information is available.

“The #artfeltTHANKS project is a way to use the arts to express our deep appreciation for the people who are caring for us and keeping our community rolling right now,” said RFAA Director and lead artist Ashley Sauder Miller, “while also providing some income for artists, who are among the many people who’ve been negatively impacted by the economic fallout from COVID-19.”

“The project is a perfect way for all of us to support the local artists who make our community a wonderful place to live, while also thanking the frontline heroes keeping us healthy and safe during this unprecedented time,” Riner Rentals owner Paul Riner said. “The real heart behind this project is for artists to be supported, neighbors working on the front lines to be thanked, and our community to celebrate both groups.”

For more information, visit valleyarts.org.