Written by Debra Van Neste
Thinking Agenda is our family-owned company legally registered in Orlando, Florida. When we are asked to explain what an anti-cult organization is and what we do, I explain it this way: What we try to accomplish is to promote education on cults and undue influence. Through various social media platforms. We only work with credentialed professionals and educators. We own several subsidiaries, some that branch off to a publication on cults and undue influence, and some are projects of self-expression through art.
One subsidiary is “Art is Heart,” which went viral gaining over 40,000 follows in 2 months on a Facebook page alone.
Now Art is Heart is on a mission. Which is to collect donated art supplies to launch “Art for Your Heart.” The goal is to create and donate 100 art kits, to give away to children’s hospitals, teachers and cult survivors. Each art kit will contain, art paper, brushes, paints and pencils. Most art kits will also contain a uniquely donated item. Part of our own profits from sales from boutiques and jewelry line at Pendant Pinache (a shared subsidiary) will go towards this mission. Other artists have contributed by offering a limited-edition line of jewelry to raise sales for Art is Heart.
Alexandria Van Neste with Art is Heart explains:
“Everyone should be able to give expression to their inner artist and create. Unfortunately, some people may not be able to afford often pricey supplies and we would like to give people an opportunity to express themselves”
The struggle to make this a reality is challenging, as contributions are based on art supplies and not on direct fundraising.
Through the hearts and generosity of individuals we hope to encourage the donation of supplies, through gift cards to art stores, Amazon or dollar stores, directly sent merchandise or collection drives. We seek to encourage a direct heartfelt connection that someone will be opening up an art kit and appreciating your generosity. We want people directly connected to this project and have absolute transparency.
Art is Heart hopes to engage and get sponsored with art communities and non-profits and seeks support from any venues that can assist in making this dream a reality.
“ The value of the artist’s being is not just how he perceives beyond ordinary appearance, but also that he can make others see things differently and even allow others to find comfort and healing. Art brings together not necessarily because it gives something pretty, but rather because it offers sensibility. Art cleaves through the wilderness, allowing one to find deeper perspective or emotion. This also is where the value of art as therapy comes from, for the being of the artist certainly is not restricted to those who “are” artists. The value of the artist is that he allows one to move outside the rut and complacency of society, to find a larger world as well as a renewed sense of self.”
Steven Van Neste-Art Director
To get involved in the 100 “Art for Your Heart” kits or to make a contribution of supplies or host a drive, please contact Debra Van Neste at admin@thinking-agenda.com. Press inquiries welcome.
Original article, updates and links at www.cultscults.com
More info: cultscults.com%20
