Join Us For the 32nd Annual Show & Sale at Blue Genie

The 32nd Annual Show & Sale at Blue Genie in Austin, Texas, hosted by Art From the Streets (AFTS), is a highly anticipated event that merges creativity, community support, and the celebration of local artistic talent. Art From the Streets, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support to homeless and formerly homeless individuals, offers a unique platform for artists to showcase their work and connect with the broader Austin art community. The annual show is not just an art sale; it is a vital initiative that helps empower people through creativity, self-expression, and financial support.

Background of Art From the Streets

Founded in 1991, Art From the Streets was established to give homeless individuals in Austin a space to create art and, through this, regain dignity, confidence, and a means to make a living. The nonprofit organization has been pivotal in transforming lives by fostering a sense of community and providing an outlet for creative expression. Through their open studio program, AFTS offers free access to art supplies, materials, and a safe environment for individuals to explore their creativity and develop artistic skills.

Over the years, many artists have found not just personal fulfillment but also financial independence through their participation in the AFTS program. Artists retain the majority of the proceeds from sales of their work, allowing them to cover basic needs, save for future projects, and continue their artistic journeys. The annual Show & Sale is the organization's largest fundraising event, and it plays a significant role in supporting both the artists and the programs provided by Art From the Streets.

The Blue Genie Art Bazaar and Its Role

For more than 20 years, the Blue Genie Art Bazaar (BGAB) has been a fixture in Austin's art scene. Known for its eclectic mix of local art, the Bazaar offers an ideal venue for Art From the Streets to host its Annual Show & Sale. Blue Genie is renowned for promoting local artists and creating a supportive environment where art can thrive in the city, and the venue aligns perfectly with the mission of AFTS.

 

The partnership between AFTS and BGAB is a testament to Austin's tight-knit artistic community. Blue Genie not only provides a space but also a network of art lovers, collectors, and community members who are passionate about supporting local causes. The 32nd Annual Show & Sale benefits greatly from this synergy, with thousands of people visiting the Bazaar each year to experience unique, handcrafted art and to learn more about the impact of the AFTS program.

What to Expect at the 32nd Annual Show & Sale

The 32nd Annual Show & Sale is slated to take place October 12 and 13 from 11:00 AM until 5:00 PM at Blue Genie, located at 6100 Airport Boulevard in Austin, and is a prime opportunity for visitors to purchase one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting a worthy cause. The event is expected to feature hundreds of original works of art, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, jewelry, and mixed media pieces. 

Each piece of art reflects the diverse styles, experiences, and talents of the participating artists, many of whom have developed their skills through years of dedication to the AFTS open studio program. The art showcased at the event is known for its authenticity and raw emotional depth, often drawing on themes of struggle, hope, and personal transformation.

Impact on the Artists and Community

One of the most significant aspects of the AFTS Show & Sale is the opportunity it provides for artists to sell their work. This event is not just a platform for exposure; it is a vital source of income for many participants. Artists retain 95% of the proceeds from the sale of their work, with the remaining 5% going back into the AFTS organization to fund its programs. For some artists, this income is critical to their financial stability, allowing them to afford housing, food, or art supplies.

Beyond the financial aspect, the Show & Sale provides a sense of accomplishment and pride for the artists. Many participants are individuals who have faced significant hardship, and the ability to present their work in a professional setting, with the recognition of the wider community, is a powerful moment of validation.

The broader Austin community benefits from the event as well, gaining exposure to art that might otherwise be overlooked. The AFTS Annual Show & Sale challenges stereotypes about homelessness and poverty, reminding attendees that creative talent and human potential can emerge from any situation, given the right support.

Volunteer and Community Involvement

The success of the AFTS Annual Show & Sale is made possible by the dedicated efforts of volunteers, local businesses, and community members. Throughout the event, volunteers assist with everything from setting up art displays to helping with sales and engaging with visitors. The collaboration between AFTS, Blue Genie, and the broader Austin community is a shining example of how grassroots efforts can create meaningful change.

For those interested in contributing to the event, AFTS encourages both financial donations and volunteer participation. Many local businesses also play a role by sponsoring the event or donating a portion of their profits during the sale period to support the organization.

How to Attend

The 32nd Annual Show & Sale will be held at the Blue Genie Art Bazaar, located at 6100 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX. Admission is free, making it accessible to everyone in the community. Attendees are encouraged to explore the wide variety of art on display, meet some of the artists, and learn more about the AFTS program and its impact on the local community. 

As the holiday season approaches, the event offers a perfect opportunity to purchase unique, meaningful gifts while supporting a cause that directly benefits Austin's most vulnerable populations. Whether you're an art collector, a supporter of local causes, or simply looking for something beautiful to adorn your home, the AFTS Annual Show & Sale promises to be a rewarding experience.

The 32nd Annual Show & Sale hosted by Art From the Streets at Blue Genie Art Bazaar continues to be one of Austin’s most impactful and inspiring art events. It embodies the city's creative spirit, while also addressing pressing social issues through the transformative power of art. Whether you're looking to support the local art scene or contribute to the empowerment of homeless and formerly homeless individuals, this event offers a unique opportunity to make a difference while celebrating art in all its forms.

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