“Take a seat.”
It’s a simple expression of generosity.
Depending on the situation, it could initiate acts of hospitality, support or companionship. Rest. Conversation. Dinner. Drinks. A game of cards.
The same sentiment could apply to giving a seat to a Hopkinsville initiative called The Chair Project.
If you have the ability, desire and creativity to make or re-make a chair, you can reach out to The Chair Project organizers and let them know you want to help. It benefits Sanctuary Inc., the local nonprofit that provides shelter and counseling for individuals and dependent children who need protection from domestic violence and sexual abuse.
Last year for the first Chair Project, supporters provided 60 chairs that were sold in a silent auction.
Here’s how it works. Artists and other creatives make a chair, alter a chair or “funky” a chair, as lead organizer Julie-Anna Carlisle says.
The first guideline says, “The chair must be an artsy, functional design that can be used to sit on or to hold something, such as a plant.”
This means no beach, lawn or plastic chairs — but wooden Adirondacks are OK.
A stool or a bench that could be used for sitting is OK, too.
The chair “must have clear elements of alterations” done by the person who donates it to The Chair Project.
If you are interested in helping, now is the time to reach out and let organizers know. Email Carlisle at thechairpoject4Sanctuary@gmail.com no later than June 12.
Several prizes will be awarded: $300 and a trophy for best of show; $150 for runner-up; $75 for honorable mention; and a gift basket for the entry receiving the highest bid in the silent auction.
The silent auction and public viewing will be 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, June 26, at Hopkinsville Brewing Co.
Jennifer P. Brown is co-founder, publisher and editor of Hoptown Chronicle. You can reach her at editor@hoptownchronicle.org. Brown was a reporter and editor at the Kentucky New Era, where she worked for 30 years. She is a co-chair of the national advisory board to the Institute for Rural Journalism and Community Issues, governing board past president for the Kentucky Historical Society, and co-founder of the Kentucky Open Government Coalition. She serves on the Hopkinsville History Foundation's board.
