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Shona Dockter has been involved with Art 4 Shelter since 2019, when she heard about the fundraiser from a friend. She works as a decorative finish artist for interiors and furniture. She’s been making art her entire life but recently found a renewed passion for creating when she became an empty nester.

Shona appreciates that Art 4 Shelter gives her a unique way to connect with marginalized people and to contribute to Simpson Housing Services’ mission.

“Affordable housing, and housing in general, is one of the biggest crises our nation faces. It can often feel overwhelming to figure out how to tackle a problem that seems insurmountable. The great thing about Art 4 Shelter is it gives us all a way to start thinking about and actively working to solve this crisis.”

“Connecting to others can be difficult when we move in different circles, but art can be a common bond. It speaks to everyone in various ways and brings beauty to the world.” 

Learn more about how our annual spring fundraiser supports our extended-stay shelter and supportive housing programs in this video by Maribeth Romslo. Buy art. Give shelter.

“Creating artwork with secondhand materials led me away from traditional canvases and to discovering vinyl as a primary canvas. Who knows, perhaps by next year’s art show I’ll have run out of vinyl and will have a new favorite base to paint.”

To Gina, Art 4 Shelter is a tangible way to do something she loves for a great cause. She also believes that the direct connection to Simpson’s extended-stay shelter is very meaningful for the artist and for the buyers.  

“It’s really lovely—the one-to-one relationship that Art 4 Shelter keeps between the starting price of a painting ($35) being the exact same cost as providing a night of shelter for someone experiencing homelessness.” 

Agency reaches final phase of $45 million fundraising campaign goal JANUARY 18, 2023—MINNEAPOLIS, MN: Simpson Housing Services is thrilled to announce $2.5 million in federal, congressionally directed funding toward the […]