Tony with Out of Africa /Heartside Gallery and Studio
Handbags made from salvaged fabric /Heartside Gallery and Studio
Our featured artist for July is Anthony Lazar. Here is a little about the artist, in his own words:
‘My name is Anthony Lazar, but they call me Tony. I have just turned 50 years old and have been an iron worker for 25 years of my life. I have three beautiful children that are 25, 24 and 22. I was born and raised right here in West Michigan, and lived right here in Heartside area when I was younger, though it was different back then.
Having drinking and drug problems for years, I now have health issues that keep me from work. One day in 2009 I wandered into Heartside, as my life seemed to have no hope in sight. I was inspired by Pastor James and Ruth (the Arts Coordinator then), to come join them to make art. My thought was 'I can't draw!", but the funny thing is that there was an artist locked up inside of me. It's been 4 years now, and I express myself in so many ways, including painting, woodworking, and I even sew handbags to keep myself busy.
Seeing the smiling faces of the many people's lives I have inspired makes me feel that I can overcome any obstacle in my life. In all the years of being alone I never felt I fit in any place. Heartside saw the good I have inside, and hey never judged me or put me down. They just show love, and that was a big plus to sticking around.
Now I return the favor, and I get to inspire others, to join Heartside family. I never imagined I would be here. It's amazing how things can work out if you put your mind to it.
Philippians 4 and 13: I can do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth ME.’
The Artists of Heartside Gallery and Studio is a monthly feature to highlight some of the wonderful people of the Heartside neighborhood. Visit www.heartside.org , Facebook and our Flickr page to keep up with us, to learn about volunteering and other ways to get involved.
Sarah Scott is Arts Coordinator for Heartside Gallery and Studio at Heartside Ministry, and can be reached at [email protected]
The Rapidian, a program of the 501(c)3 nonprofit Community Media Center, relies on the community’s support to help cover the cost of training reporters and publishing content.
We need your help.
If each of our readers and content creators who values this community platform help support its creation and maintenance, The Rapidian can continue to educate and facilitate a conversation around issues for years to come.
Please support The Rapidian and make a contribution today.