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ART OF JULY BY ANNE WEEKS Art of July was conceived nine years ago when local art promoter/event organizer/fundraiser Randace Rauscher reasoned that there must be a way to unite the efforts of visual art and fundraising, a way for artists to give back to the community. Set up to benefit a different charity each year, Art of July invites artists to donate work that is then sold via silent auction. This year's 9th Annual Art of July will benefit Casting For Recovery (CFR), an organization that provides fly-fishing retreats specifically implemented for women who have or have had breast cancer. CFR offers fly-fishing retreats operating on the premise that the technique of fly-casting will provide unique motion for joint and soft tissue stretching beneficial to the anatomy and physiology of breast cancer patients. In addition the sport of fly-fishing is considered psychologically beneficial by relieving stress and providing a sense of calm. The retreat weekend focuses on wellness, including the professional attention from psychotherapists, physical therapists and fly-fishing instructors, and provides key resources on issues surrounding breast cancer. Rauscher learned about Casting For Recovery through artist Martin Cooper a New York photographer and designer who's OrchisArts, a not-for-profit studio, makes contributions to breast cancer organizations. Cooper will be this year's Art of July spokesperson. Not only does Art of July provide assistance to needy organizations, but it also provides exposure for local artists who may not have other vehicles by which to promote or sell their art. Friend and nine-year contributing artist Kevin Banks, who helped Rauscher brainstorm the initial idea of the event, is but one of many devoted "donators." Last year, photographer Jennifer Bauer captured in a "photo essay" the essence of Casa Myrna Vasquez recipients; mothers and children (www.bauerfoto.com). Bauer returns to Art of July this year again to share her expert vision. "I don't think it will ever stop, this event. Every year it keeps growing and improving," states Banks. Like Banks, many participating artists continue to participate over the years, comprising a real "core" of artists dedicated to the cause. And Rauscher is quick to recognize the support. Last year she handed Banks an award for his continued contributions. In addition to Banks and Bauer, this year's artists include; locals Sarah Beth Wiley, Tim Ireland, Kevin Banks, and Russell Moore along with visiting artists Michelle McGoldrick a New York City based clothing designer, and Jah T. Banks a Boston painter now living in New York City. Rauscher, an effusive powerhouse of energy and ideas has been a non-stop force of fundraising efforts over the years. Her skill is a creative one that combines knowing how to define an idea to culminate the right resources with the right audience. Including her own donations, like art supplies for participating artists, event supplies or gift basket materials, Rauscher who basically runs the organization of the event out of her house, goes above and beyond the call of duty. Organizations targeted by her efforts are met with nothing less than success. Last year's Art of July, held at the Fairmont Copley Plaza, benefited the women's shelter Casa Myrna Vasquez attracting 280 plus attendees. This year prooves to be an even larger success as Rauscher will have the help of public relations specialist and event planner Kate Shamon from Shamon Communications. Expanding through the years, past Art of July events have been held in accessible Boston locations such as Club CafÈ, Lansdowne Street Playhouse, Kharma Club, G-Lounge, Hybernia, and the William Scott Gallery. Intended not to alienate people who aren't necessarily a part of an "art scene' Art of July extends itself to every walk of life. "There is no pretension to this event. The event is attended by all kinds of people," explains Banks. This year the event will grow further to involve nationally recognized artists as well as local artists. "I want everyone from 17 to 70 to find something they want to buy," explains Rauscher. © 2002 ANNE WEEKS
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