I have always been impressed with the ministry the Stewpot at First Presbyterian Church of Dallas does year after year with the homeless and people at risk of being homeless. For 14 years, the Stewpot has offered art classes to its clients and has organized an art exhibit showcasing the work. This must be satisfying for the artists and also for those of us who want to experience the visual arts.

Here’s your chance to attend “Food for the Soul” at the Dallas Public Library, which is on display until Dec. 29. The exhibition is on the fourth floor of the library and the work is for sale, with proceeds going back to the artists.

Cynthia Brannum, who teaches art at the Stewpot sent me the following quotes from the artists:
“The love of the art takes me away from the issues that I am dealing with. This was my first show and I appreciate the opportunity,” Lee Christopher Albritton.

“The class gives me comfort and it brings me back to things I used to enjoy,”Leon Pollard

“To be able to show our work is a gift from God and I greatly appreciate it.  Regardless of the value of my work, it is exhibited and seen and for this I am grateful,” Martha Laws

You know, I’m grateful too for the good work that happens in our communities and for the efforts all of us make to express ourselves and make deep human connections. It is a gift, as Martha Laws says.