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I received an email from Claudine Intner who during the month of October, is hosting Art Now for Autism, an online fundraiser for autism. The exhibition includes the work of 26 artists who work in the mediums of fiber, photography, mixed media, and painting. Money raised will go to Autism Speaks and they have raised over $2,000 so far.

Another fundraiser is from the pen of Virginia Spiegel. Art, Nature, Creativity, Life is a serialised book which is available for a donation to the American Cancer Society.

Virginia kindly dropped me a review copy to browse and I must admit that I received it last week but it took me a while to read through what she had actually sent me and it is the type of material that you have to mull over a bit before dashing off a review.

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The “book” is actually a series of well thought out, “best of” newsletters that contain brief pieces on creativity, the creative process, inspiration in the form of poetry, imagery, articles, tips and work in progress thoughts.

The everyday becomes inspiring under Virginia’s hand. Art, Nature, Creativity, Life is well written and presented, the photography is exquisite, and the essays are woven together in a manner that leads the reader down an enjoyable path. The compilation is a well rounded and balanced reading experience as there is not too much or too little of anything. The essays are not too sappy or sentimental, neither is it like a sporting coach giving you a pep talk. Virginia hit the right note for me.

These essays are the sort of thing you need to settle down with a cuppa when you want to take a break from studio work and need a dash of inspiration. The compilation is a re-energiser and the money raised goes to good cause. Do consider making a donation.

I have just had an email from Virginia Spiegel to say she has put a sample chapter online. So don’t waste time hanging around here go and check it out.