I’m home now after more than a month in NYC, still dealing with a health issue that has us all puzzled. Praying that the new team of doctors can unravel this mystery and restore me to my usual perky self. Your messages of support continue to lift me up as I hope my for-now-less-than-daily posts lift you up. I may have slowed down a bit, but I am still pushing forward on projects – that’s how I roll!
Back in November I wrote about collecting debris from Hurricane Sandy and entrusting the pieces to artists who would transform the remnants of the hurricane into art.

photo, Susan Lomuto
Since then I have gathered over 300 pieces of debris, named the project, built a website, secured close to 20 artists to participate so far – all from DAM’s bountiful list of featured artists – and have begun the process of raising funds to cover shipping costs to get this debris into the hands of this wonderful group of thoughtful, talented artists.

The Peace by Piece website
The project is already creating some buzz. . .interest coming from different places. Perhaps a traveling exhibit? A book? More about that another time. Let’s get this party started first.

Most of the debris. Click image to see full size.
As I work to find a new normal in my own life regarding my health, I take comfort in this project – in part because it is about something very close to my heart – the knowledge that we can rise up from devastation and destruction to create hope, light and love, no matter how challenging the path.

photo, Susan Lomuto [click to see full size]
My contribution to the exhibit is two-fold. First, a series of macro photographs of the debris before its transformation. Additionally, each box of debris that is shipped out to an artist will include a small piece of debris that I have altered in some way. This adds another layer of interest and common thread running through the artworks.

Altered Debris Fragment, mohair, beach pebbles

Altered Debris Fragments, burned, drilled, polymer clay

Altered Debris Fragments, drilled, burned holes, silk ribbon, silk Sari remnants
The first box ships out on Monday. Others will ship out as the money becomes available. You can follow the progress of Peace by Piece right HERE - and if you want to help get the debris into the hands of the artists, you can make a donation of any amount on that page.

photo, Susan Lomuto [click to see full size]
Peace by Piece. That’s how it’s done. . .and that’s how I’ll get where I need to be. Peace by Piece.