Arts Patrons change the trajectory of history.
Michelangelo painted the Sistine Chapel when he was well-supported by Patrons.
Frida Kahlo made art while receiving medical care.
When you become a Patron, Elle can create new work and care for her health,
and You can be a tangible part of the current historical moment.
The Basics of Patronage
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A Collector purchases a piece of art. Some collectors purchase several pieces of art over time. Elle & Wink collectors receive periodic newsletters, addressed to the League of Extraordinary Collectors.
A Patron supports the ongoing work of an artist at each stage of the creative process.
You can be both.
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In the Collector relationship, the artist sets a fixed price point, and the sales transaction occurs at the end of the creation cycle: $450 for a work on canvas.
In the Patron paradigm, the Patron (that’s you!) choose how much to offer the artist (that’s me!) on a one-time or ongoing basis to support their ongoing work. Whether that’s five dollars or five hundred dollars is up to the individual Patron and how they feel inspired to support the work.
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This is not Patreon.
I am a chronically ill and disabled artist. I am taking care of an ill and declining parent. We are in the midst of social collapse here in the U.S. I simply can not make the kinds of perk-based promises that form the tit-for-tat paradigm of Patreon.
What I can promise is this: I will keep making art as long as my bodymind is vertical and ventilating. My art will keep provoking questions and conversation. And I will continue to create spaces for other disabled and chronically ill artists so they can do the same things.
And as a Patron, you are part of that story.
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My process for each collection takes months. The creation portion is usually 2-3 months; prior to that is an extensive research and incubation phase that can last anywhere from two months to two years.
My process also requires investment that isn’t always covered by the sale of previous artwork. I source vintage toys like Troll dolls and Barbie dolls, vintage books, and worn out clothing items to use in mixed media work. This requires time, energy, and investment in a network of relationships. This is invisible labor that usually goes uncompensated.
The U.S. is suffering from the disease of late-stage capitalism, and over consumption is one of the symptoms. As we reflect on our spending and consumption, many of us are abandoning and boycotting large inhumane corporations and redirecting our money to local businesses, minority owned enterprises, and mutual aid.
When you support me, I support my community through direct mutual aid, land reparations, and regional arts and education programs.
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A Patron of the Arts is no small thing.
As a token of thanks, I will list my Patrons on this page, and you will receive a digital badge to display on your website, email, and social media. If someone runs your name through a search engine, this page should show up. Arts Patronage is important, and your support of art and community will be recognized.
Why become a Patron?
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Marissa is a Patron because she believes in the conversations Elle is provoking with her work.
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Davis is a Patron because he doesn’t have a lot of wall space, but he wants to support the creation of new work on a regular basis.
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Stephanie says, “I give a little every month because art supplies are expensive, and sometimes you just need one new paint to finish something!”
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Ricki says, “I understand the process is long and that bills don’t adhere to collection release schedules.”
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Ari says, “Remember to take a rest before the rest takes you!” She supports artists because no one can grind all the time.
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Someone donates coffee money because while he may not always be in a position to buy a new painting, he always wants to support Elle’s work (and medically necessary caffeine habit).
