These days instead of blogging I post a bit on facebook just like you: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Derek-Gores/54788087483?ref=ts

Just finished a big commission for SEIU (Service Employees International Union), a piece for the ongoing health care reform campaign. What an honor to have my artwork take part in such an important national dialogue. You'll see I've used phrases from speeches, maps, challenges, and pictures of American citizens. I've tried to take an idea, a feeling- and make it visible. I've titled the piece "A Uniquely American Solution".

More info: www.seiu.org

My piece 'Blowing Bubbles' raised money recently for the new Scott Center for Autism Treatment, at Florida Tech. The collage technique is a pretty great metaphor for putting the pieces together to unlock the mind and make a solid connection to these great kids. During the fundraiser, I demonstrated the technique, and the attendees helped me pick out words to include in the piece. "discover... play... kiss... family fun..." To make a donation, call (321) 674-8104 or send an email to thescottcenter@fit.edu

My first ever solo show comes to town July 24 via the uber-capable hands of the 321 Agency. Laaaarge pieces, some 6' tall, all collage. I just had a walk through of their new headquarters, complete with a gorgeous gallery space, transformed and unbelievably cool. Those guys put in a ton of blood, sweat, and Yuengling. Here's the flyer- note the special hours. Also a link to the facebook event invite. Tell the world. Now I gotta get back to scrapbookin'.

www.321agency.com/torn

Well that was a busy quarter. Thanks for visiting at shows, shindigs, places in between. In the coming months, look for fresh collages, fresh directions, fresh exhibits.
Such as:
- SLOW Gallery, Melbourne, Spring 09. details to follow.
- Downtown Divas, Melbourne, Spring 09. details to follow.
- 321 Agency, Melbourne, Summer 09. details to follow.
- Miami, details to follow. - LA, details to follow.
- Earth, details to follow.

Finally, here's the latest installment in my Manifest Hope: DC / President Obama story. The leader of the free world signed one of my prints. Either him or maybe Barry Gibb?

I'm honored to share the following pieces of art, selected for the MANIFEST HOPE DC exhibition in Washington, DC, coinciding with the Presidential Inauguration. Jurists included Spike Lee, artist Shep Fairey, MoveOn.org's Laura Dawn, Eric Hilton of Thievery Corp., Anne Ellegood, curator at the Smithsonian Hirshhorn, artist Robbie Conal, author Van Jones, and SEIU healthcare president David Rolf. I travelled to the capitol for the opening night of the art show, and enjoyed the impressive vision, creativity, and commitment. (see some pre-show and opening night pics below.) Interviewed by roving reporters during the show, several artists noted that ‘art' has taken back ownership of its potential for communicating ideas and national directions.

Returning to Florida, where my attire is better suited(!), I wanted to continue this story, in this unique moment in history. Partnering with several local and national charities and organizations, I'm offering limited edition archival prints of my CHANGE USA and FOR ALL AMERICANS artwork. 25% of the purchase price will be donated to charities related to each respective cause.

Sales of FOR ALL AMERICANS will benefit:

Sales of CHANGE USA will benefit:

Purchase your limited edition print, available either signed or unsigned:

Here are a few pics from pre-show and opening night. I'm the cool guy with no socks on: