Benevolence: A kindly, charitable act or gift
The Artists Benevolence Fund is a unique source of financial assistance to artists living in Laguna Beach, who have suffered a catastrophic event, making them unable to work.
The Fund began as the Artists’ Relief Fund in 1987, when artwork was auctioned to help a critically ill Sawdust Festival artist. In 1993, the fund was reorganized as a non-profit shelter within the Sawdust Festival and expanded to help not only Sawdust exhibitors, but any working artist in the city of Laguna Beach. With a $1000 maximum monthly grant amount, the Artists’ Benevolence Fund has awarded over $100,000 in relief to artists in their times of need.
Anyone may contribute to the Fund, but each Summer, Sawdust artists rise to the occasion and selflessly donate their art to the annual Artists’ Benevolence Fund Art Auction. This special event accounts for the majority of the revenue raised for the Artists’ Fund.
Artists’ Benevolence Fund Art Auction
2-5 pm on the Sawdust Entertainment Deck
work of art donated by Sawdust Festival artists.
To receive a personal invitation to the auction, email your name and address to: suethompsonart@gmail.com
Another Way to Help
If you would like to donate to the Artists’ Benevolence Fund, you may send your contribution to the Artists’ Benevolence Fund, 935 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach, CA 92651
How can a Laguna Beach artist get assistance from the Fund?
If you are a working artist, living in Laguna Beach, and have suffered a catastrophic event that has resulted in financial hardship, you may be eligible for a grant. Please CLICK HERE to download the Confidential Application for Assistance and mail with all necessary documentation to:
For additional information, please contact any of the Artists’ Benevolence Fund Trustees: Sue Thompson 949-494-6277, Susan Wade 949-494-3421, or Mike Kelly 949-497-1129.
The Artists’ Benevolence Fund is a 501(c)(3) Charitable Trust