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Written by Sherri White, Heifer Staff Writer
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An Artist's Gift
Volunteers support Heifer's mission in different ways. Some give money,
others time, and many help by raising awareness. The artist, activist
and college professor Betty LaDuke furthers Heifer's cause by doing
what she loves -- illustrating through her art the connection between
all living things and the earth.
"So often we don't have a way to contribute to things we
believe in," LaDuke said in a recent telephone interview. "We feel
helpless. For me, I have a lot of pride as an artist that my skills can
contribute to Heifer, especially after seeing firsthand Heifer's
projects in action."
A professor emeritus of art at Southern Oregon University in
Ashland, Ore., LaDuke taught college courses for 32 years and initiated
"Women in Art" and "Art in the Third World" classes. Her paintings,
drawings and exhibits are displayed in museums and universities
throughout the United States, and she has many circulating exhibits,
published books and video productions. She has traveled extensively to
do research.
"My work has always been an outreach to learn the life cycle and rights
of passage of woman as artists," she said. "My focus was to broaden my
students' awareness of women's's creativity in Asia, Africa and Latin
America."
LaDuke learned about Heifer while she was working with another
non-governmental organization. She said she reached out to Heifer after
researching its humanitarian work. When she heard about a Heifer Study
Tour to Uganda and Rwanda, she signed up immediately.
"When I found out Heifer Study Tours went to Rwanda and
Uganda, I made a very deliberate choice to learn how a program could
help people put their lives on track in the aftermath of genocide and
war."
LaDuke has given Heifer permission to use her artwork to promote its
message. For of her paintings are featured on our new note cards
available through World Ark's Market pages.
To learn more about Betty LaDuke, her travels or her art, visit www.bettyladuke.com.
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Last Updated ( Saturday, 19 February 2005 )
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