Anodyne Artists: Survive and Thrive

~Help a 20-yr-old non-profit recover 
& Bring Arts Back For All in the Twin Cities~

Arts belong to everyone ~ and Anodyne Artist Company assures the safe exploration of creativity for artists with developmental disorders, traumatic brain injuries, autism, physical disabilities, chronic illness and mental illness. With a mission to cultivate new works & explore cultural awareness and diverse perspectives, Anodyne has worked with 1000's of artists over the last 20 years. Yes, twenty years. I'm fighting for them because sometimes we forget the importance of creativity and expression in making meaningful journeys in all human lives.

The last 18 months have been rough for many organizations - and the Anodyne experience has been no different. No in-person arts, leases lost, insufficient funding, and now, figuring a way to create the next amazing venue with a new arts studio, gallery, performance room, and recording studio.

And who is behind this? The amazing Mary Pendergast (Exec. Director/co-founder) and Joseph Pendergast (Associate Director/co-founder). Mary established a professional performance career in opera, theatre, independent film, and dance, and now uses her experience  and community commitment for arts exploration.  Joseph is a nationally know sculptor who managed his MS - which as of late has impacted his work - and he is still key in guiding new artists.

This work is not easy.  It takes a strong collaborative effort: along with a team of 10-20 artist educators, this community fosters public gallery showings, original theatre works, new music, and personal exploration of artistic expression throughout the year.

WHY NOW?

During the pandemic Anodyne lost their space and incurred expenses that have left them near the edge: there are countless artists that depend on this organization and service. 

This is not a glossy or hyped org - it's supported by DHS, small donations, and some grants - but they lost their primary funder during COVID.  They have worked hard and need to let people know just how valuable their work is to a less visible community.