In days past, artists would have patrons who would support them by making semi-regular payments. These patrons were typically members of the merchant class, nobility, or the Church. Although these days are long gone, artists today still need support!

By becoming a patron, you will help me in tremendous ways. Some of you may be aware of my physical and financial situation, but for those who are not, I can say that neither is wonderful. I have not been able to afford materials for painting or drawing for a long while. I also cannot afford to attend figure drawing sessions around Philadelphia, which can range from $10 to $30 per session, multiple times per week. Thankfully, I teach figure drawing at The Fleisher Art Memorial, and so I have some time with a model.

Your funds would also provide me with artist publications and collective memberships (such as The DaVinci Art Alliance,‍ InLiquid, and New American Paintings), which in turn provide me with exhibition and curation opportunities. Without these memberships, it is very difficult to get a foot in with the larger art world and market. Your donations would also help me with fees related to juried exhibitions and publication applications. Most applications to juried exhibitions, online exhibitions, and publications cost anywhere between $15 to $50. This is a huge access barrier for any artist struggling financially.

Your donations would also afford me a means of transportation. I rely fully on my partner, artist, and small business owner, Eric Lee, for my weekly commute to and from work, as well as for all other transportation needs. I currently cannot afford to renew my driver’s license, let alone a car, and so I want a pedal-assist electric bike for my daily transportation needs. With this, I would be able to attend multiple figure drawing sessions around Philadelphia, as well as attend art openings, artist lectures, and any other art-related events, at any time. Public transportation in Philadelphia, though widespread, is grossly underfunded and neglected. The distance between my home and my place of work is ~6 miles and a ~30-minute drive, but nearly 2 hours by bus. Moreover, the subway escalators and elevators are oftentimes inoperable or marred by urine, vomit, or feces. This is not a sustainable or appealing option for someone in my condition.

A bit about my conditions — I have chronic kidney disease, Crohn’s disease, osteoporosis, and complex PTSD. I have had two kidney transplants (2000 and 2011) and spent time on dialysis between 2009 and 2011. My CKD is relatively stable, though incrementally declining. My Crohn’s disease is a result of a medication side effect. I received infusions of Entyvio every 6-8 weeks and am currently in remission. My osteoporosis is also a medication side effect, and has progressed significantly in the past five years. I am being treated for complex PTSD by a trauma-specialized therapist and am improving. In addition to these conditions, I also have a birth defect in both of my knees, which has prompted the use of a walking cane.

By becoming my patron, you would also have first access to my available works, and at a more affordable cost. I have a small stash of paintings that have not seen the light of day in any gallery or exhibition, and are ready for a new home. Additionally, for a smaller cost, you would have first pick at my figure drawings, etchings, and any other art objects I have in the studio.

I am not selling a “product,” but a promise of a continued studio and professional practice for years to come.