Visual Arts Pairs Well With Justice

Visual art speaks justice. This rings true and was presented in a real way at last night's Portland Loves Cambodia 2^nd annual art show. 

Graphic designers from Nike and other influential organizations displayed their art designs inspired by the restoration efforts of child sex traffic victims in Cambodia. The reality of this crime is nothing to hide behind hushed words. This real tragedy goes on today at this moment. Children are being manipulated, stolen, bought and sold in locations all around the world, including the United States. Cambodia in particular has a reputation for such atrocities.  

This PDX event took place at Nemo Design off of Belmont in Portland. A DJ brought the magic of ambiance into the atmosphere playing a good mix of tunes, dazzling the senses of our ear drums. Raffle tickets were for sale at the door. This was no raffle to shrug a shoulder at, amazing prizes were won from local supporting businesses including Alladin Theatre, Stumptown Coffee Roasters; Pine State Biscuits, The Clymb; Modern Domestic, Bliss Salon; WTF Bike Shop, Enso Winery and many more. Free beer was donated by Widmer brewery, quenching the thirst of guests attending. Art was displayed and vibrantly appealing to the eye. The sales of all of the prints were donated to Transitions Global.

There are many organizations springing up to battle this violation that steals such innocence from the most vulnerable of victims. Many people are taking notice and the hope stands that many more will pay attention. A non-profit organization by the name of Transitions Global focuses primarily on the young girls rescued from child sex trafficking in Cambodia. The need is great in Cambodia and they want to be present to contribute their help. Transition's slogan is “Freedom Begins With A Dream.”

The Portland Loves Cambodia art show was a benefit that extended awareness and raised proceeds for Transition's efforts. It takes $1000 to educate one rescued girl for one year, all of the proceeds from this event went towards this development. It is amazing what a few inspired individuals can do to make a difference. Imagine if the majority of the world started to care. Imagine if we looked at each other as brother and sister... how would our perspectives begin to change.

The visual arts paired with justice, simply makes sense. The graphic designs displayed at the event were created to make an inspiring statement towards this cause. One piece was made up of black and yellow abstract designs and in the center is a contrasting blue eye. Below the image it says “Wake Up Dreaming.” Transitions Global keeps dreaming and continues to put forth tremendous effort to make a difference in these young girls' lives.

There are ways that you can make a tangible contribution. Visit Transitions Global to learn more about what they do and make a difference by donating or sponsoring a rescued girl: www.transitionsglobal.org. Another way to get involved is by physically traveling to Cambodia to see and learn for yourself; Transitions is hosting an upcoming summer 2012 engagement trip to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. If you are interested please e-mail info@transitionsglobal.org for an application. Also keep in mind applications for this trip are due by March 15, 2012.

“Every girl is sacred. Every girl deserves dignity. Every girl needs to dream. And no girl should ever be sold.” -Transitions Global

 Transitions Global: www.transitionsglobal.org.  Transitions Facebook

 Framed and non-framed prints contributed by the following artists:

Adam R Garcia (PDX)
Christopher David Ryan (Portland, Maine)
Jeff Rogers (NYC)
Mike Spoljaric (PDX)
Kalle Crafton (PDX)
Fiodor Sumkin (Paris, FR)
Leandro Castelao (Buenos Aires, AR)
Blake Gantz (PDX)
Ryan Caruthers (PDX)
Ryan Collier (PDX)
Cynthia Tuan (PDX)
Derek Kim (San Francisco)
Everett Vangsnes (PDX)

Written by Art Vigilante: Jenny Rose

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