everyONEcounts

(“The Power of One” – textile work by Jeanette Gilks)

Artists stand united in a powerful response to the crisis of abandoned babies in South Africa.

A local non-profit organization, everyONEcounts, has launched an innovative art campaign, hoping to raise funds to be donated to the pressing crisis of abandoned babies. More than 700 babies are dumped throughout South Africa each year - wrapped in plastic garbage bags, most are left for dead in open fields, garbage bins and toilets.

Founded by local artist Lara Mellon, the organization aims to collect and exhibit original 30X30cm artworks, in any medium, which will each be sold for ZAR1000 (approx. $140), ultimately raising one million South African Rand.

The appeal for art, announced earlier this year, has resulted in over 600 works received to date from artists in Australia, Canada, Cypress, Denmark, Dubai, India, Taiwan, New York, the UK, Zambia and from all over South Africa.

By exhibiting and selling professional and amateur artworks together and for the same amount, everyONEcounts hopes to reinforce the message that all lives are equally valuable.

The exhibition, which kicks off on November 25, will be held at The Quays which forms part of the new Point Waterfront development in Durban,. The use of this exciting venue was donated to the organization and lends itself perfectly to the art exhibition, which will run for 3 weeks until 17 December. All artworks can be viewed and purchased online, either through the organization’s website or on Facebook.

The real appeal of this campaign, however, has been the heart with which it all began – for artists to unite with one voice and do what they can in order to make a difference to even one abandoned life. Anyone wishing to view or purchase artworks can do so through the campaign website: www.everyonecounts.co.za or contact lara@everyonecounts.co.za