
The 7th annual Paintings for a Purpose Art Show raised $20,000 for the Winnipesaukee Playhouse and the Circle Program.
The 7th annual Paintings for a Purpose Art Show raised $20,000 to support local youth and arts programming. The proceeds were divided equally between the Winnipesaukee Playhouse and the Circle Program, providing $10,000 to each organization.
Founded by local watercolor artist Dr. Marc Bard, the Paintings for a Purpose Art Show was held in July at the Winnipesaukee Playhouse, bringing community members together to enjoy and purchase New Hampshire-inspired artwork while supporting two organizations that make a meaningful difference in the Lakes Region.
All artwork was generously donated by Dr. Bard, allowing proceeds from purchases to directly support the two beneficiary organizations and their work in the community.
“I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who visited the show, purchased artwork and helped make this year’s event such a success,” said Dr. Bard. “Knowing that $20,000 will support the Winnipesaukee Playhouse and the Circle Program makes sharing my artwork even more meaningful, and I’m honored to be part of a community that so generously supports local arts and youth programs.”
The event connected visual and performing arts while generating support for programs that foster creativity, confidence, resilience and community engagement.
The funds will help the Winnipesaukee Playhouse continue providing professional and community-based theatre and arts opportunities, while supporting the Circle Program’s experiential learning, mentoring and leadership development programs for young people.
Several local businesses joined Dr. Bard in supporting the show. MVSB supported event planning and funded new art and card displays, Moulton Farm provided refreshments, Meredith Frame Shop helped with printing and framing, and Minuteman Press North Conway produced the cards. Bard’s grandson, Ben Levine, handled the event’s website and point-of-sale needs.
“This event is a wonderful reflection of what makes our community so special—people and local organizations coming together to share their talents, support one another and create meaningful opportunities,” said Cindy Hemeon-Plessner, SVP, Chief Marketing & Experience Officer at MVSB and Paintings for a Purpose board member. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s show such a success and extend its positive impact throughout the Lakes Region.”
Organizers extend their appreciation to the Paintings for a Purpose board, sponsors, partners, purchasers and visitors whose generosity made the fundraising total possible and strengthened the impact of Paintings for a Purpose.
Learn more about Paintings for a Purpose and get updates on next year’s show at paintingsforapurpose.org.
About Dr. Marc Bard
Now in double overtime of a fulfilling career as a medical illustrator, practicing physician, author, health care executive, and national health care consultant, Marc Bard currently devotes his time to embracing the Squam Lake environs with his wife Carol and, whenever possible, his children and grandchildren. He enjoys studying watercolor painting and contributing to the success of local nonprofit organizations by donating all proceeds from his artwork to support their missions. Learn more at paintingsforapurpose.org.
About The Winnipesaukee Playhouse
The Winnipesaukee Playhouse is a nonprofit organization that develops and stages professional and community-based theatrical productions while providing opportunities in theatre and the performing arts for the community. Learn more at winnipesaukeeplayhouse.org.
About the Circle Program
The Circle Program empowers young people through outdoor experiences, mentoring, and leadership development programs designed to build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of community. Learn more at circleprogram.org.
