ADL Michigan Artworks in West Bloomfield Raises $15K

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) Michigan's ArtWorks ADL: Justice, Advocacy, & Art, held Nov. 17 at the Janice Charach Gallery at the Jewish Community Center in West Bloomfield, raised $15,000 to support the nonprofit's mission of combating anti-Semitism and all forms of bigotry and hate. 

“We had incredible artists participate and donate their artwork to the mission of the ADL," said Heidi Budaj, ADL Michigan's executive director and a West Bloomfield resident, adding more than 30 pieces were donated for the event. 

The exhibition, fundraiser, and silent auction highlighted the talents of nationally and locally acclaimed artists for the benefit of ADL. Participating artists included Tony Roko, Bowen Kline, Michael Phillips, Donna Pellagato, Cynthia Nielson, Eileen Aboulafia, Jo Strausz Rosen, Michelle Sider, Bruce Finsilver, Ron Stearn, Robert Schefman, and Deanna Sperka. Their pieces and artist statements can be viewed at  http://www.cvent.com/d/84q77z/6K.

Each piece of artwork – painting, photography, mixed media, or sculpture – focuses on one or more aspects of ADL’s mission. 

“I was able to plan the logistics of the event as well as participate as an artist, said Jaimee Wine, ADL Events Manager. “I have a new found appreciation for the art world and this is just the beginning of an amazing journey of learning and connecting with others through the arts.

The evening began with Berkley High School senior TJ Bowers speaking about his experiences in the ADL school program, Dream Dialogue. Through it, Berkley and West Bloomfield High School students enjoy a cultural and educational experience with others outside the classroom setting.

ADL Michigan also hosted ArtWorks ADL Jr. an art competition for metropolitan Detroit students in grades 9-12. The goal of the competition was to get young people to think about what hate means to them and share their artist interpretation of how a world without hate would look. 

“This event brought a new circle of participants into the ADL family welcoming all of the artists and especially the students who participated so enthusiastically,” said co-chair Leonard Sahn. 

Learn more at michigan.adl.org.