Ripple Effect is a pay-it-forward project where I send out a customized, hand-painted word to YOUR friends, neighbors, colleagues… anyone who you think could use a good surprise in the mail. The paintings are of an inspiring word based on the story of the awesome human you are nominating. There is no cost to participate and you can nominate someone anonymously. Every year, I open Ripple Effect to the public. Sign up for my email list to stay in touch and learn about future projects! Scroll down to read more!
Ripple Effect came about by stirring together things I love…
Painting LOTS of small daily watercolors,
…playing with text and image,
…writing letters and sending mail!
And thinking about how the last few years have been HARD for so many, I was inspired to start a little ripple of GOOD surprises!
The first project opened March 20 and by June 8 I received 100 nominations!
The call for nominations went out over social media starting May 20 and was open to everyone anywhere! Nominators were asked to share the name of the person they wanted to nominate and their address along with a story about why they could use a good surprise in the mail. I also asked for word suggestions that might be just right for the person they were thinking of and finally if the sender wanted to remain anonymous or not.
Nominations came in from across the country! The paintings went out to people who could use both support and celebration. I am keeping the specific stories that came in confidential, but they included hospitalizations and diagnoses, struggling new moms, those recently laid off, a couple folks who lost their homes, and others going through divorce or depression... and so many more tearful situations. I feel honored to be trusted with these private and powerful stories. And there were many that went to honor new graduates, hard workers, loyal friends and overall inspiring beams of light in the world! Who couldn’t use a small burst of color and cheerleading in the mail?! What I loved too is that many of the senders chose to remain anonymous so there was the extra element of wonder as well as surprise for the recipient.
There was no cost to participate as this was a 100% pay it forward project. The project was funded entirely by my studio and several generous donations. Thank you so much to everyone- nominators, recipients and donors - who were involved in the project!
You can see many of the images from this project on my Instagram!
What did the recipients get in the mail?!
People nominated for Ripple Effect each got one, beautifully packaged original 5 x 7” watercolor painting in a 8 x 10” mat, which was ready to pop right into a frame of their choice. Included also was a letter about the project and the sender’s name, unless they choose to remain anonymous. The painting I chose was a surprise based on the note about the recipient, as well as suggestions of favorite colors or places. Each painting was custom-designed and hand painted for the recipient and completely one-of-a-kind.
Was there any cost?
Nope. This was a pay-it-forward project. I donated my time and 100 paintings. I am grateful to the donors who supported the cost of the mats, packaging and shipping. Donation was totally optional and not necessary to participate! A million thanks to all the donors!
How many paintings did I send out?
So far, over 100! I have always liked 100 as a goal in projects I’ve taken on for as long as I’ve been an artist. 100 days of consistent work, 100 things made… it is a number that feels really awesome to hit! When I tell my students that they have to fill 100 sketchbook pages each semester their jaws drop. But when they COMPLETE the project, it is so empowering!
Are you going to do this project again?
Yes! I plan on doing this annually as a way of giving back. Giving back is an important mission of my studio. Sign up for my newsletter to stay updated!
How can I support future Ripple Effect projects?
You can donate here to support the costs of shipping and packaging for future projects.
What’s next?
I’ve recently launched several new products based on the powerful combination of text and image that I’m super excited about! Sign up for my newsletter to stay posted!
Can I custom order a Ripple Effect painting to send to someone?
Ripple Effect is a special, limited edition project.
Custom text and image commissions are available all year for purchase. Please reach out to me to talk through the details!
“Just as ripples spread out when a single pebble is dropped into the water, the actions of individuals can have far reaching effects.”
- Dalai Lama
