Museum London launches 12th annual UPwithART

Left to right: Julie Bevan, executive director of Museum London; Chuck Lazenby, executive director of Unity Project; Ed Pien, UPwithART guest artist; Amsa Yaro, UPwithARTist; and , Van Simpson, presenting sponsor. Kate Otterbein / Global News

Museum London in London, Ont. has officially launched its 12th annual UPwithART campaign. 65 works of art have been donated by various local artists. The pieces will be put up for auction, with proceeds going to the Unity Project.

“It’s such a vital event for supporting our operations,” said Chuck Lazenby, executive director of Unity Project. “For us this year in particular, having to stay in a hotel temporarily, our costs have increased.”

All funds will be going towards not only hotel costs, but also basic needs for residents, like food.

“I always feel so privileged to be a part of UPwithART. It’s quite overwhelming to feel that level of support for your organization and to feel that people are really on your side in the fight against homelessness and poverty.”

“I think this is one of the ways the museum enacts its values and demonstrates its commitment to social justice and community in London,” said Julie Bevan, executive director of Museum London. “There’s a strong commitment on the part of past and current staff to the work of Unity Project and it’s just a delight to see how it all comes together and how many different people from across the community are invested and contributing to its success.”

“Mirror You, Mirror Me” by Amsa Yaro (2022).