Dear Creatives, Makers, Artists,

Most of us are entering strange times but you might be familiar with them already. Working alone, without much of a budget, with an empty canvas that might surprise you! You might be poised to come out of this better than any of us.

I’ve always thought artists would lead us in the 21st Century, lead us into better days and better ways of spending time and money. Better ways of building community.

In my community of Evanston, we are surrounded with artists on every block. I’ve met at least 300 of you, but rumor has it there are 11,000 creatives in the community. Architects, designers, painters, fiber artists. The humble nature of the Midwesterner prevents me from knowing most of you. I’ve turned to looking under rocks, asking people I meet if they know of any artists in the area.

Obsessively, I’ve been rooting around for you for 8 years now. Interviewing 100 of you on my podcast. Hosting hundreds of you at art openings and pop ups. You’ve all been so lovely and kind and grateful.

And that’s what I love about artists the most, they all seem so in tune with gratitude. Grateful for time spent with others in good conversation, the colors at sunrise and sunset, the textures of dirt in spring, the feeling of a distressed walnut floor in an old Polish meat shop.

You have all taught me to be grateful for such things and I love for you that. And I want others to know this truth and to see you and your work so that we can all be led into a better place of connection, community and gratitude.

Love, Lisa 

Follow Lisa’s Work

Website: www.evanstonmade.org
Instagram: @thelisadshow
Podcast: The Lisa D Show