“Fashion is more art than art is."

— Andy Warhol

The Community of Color project offers locals a unique way to support the Willow Oak Center for Arts and Learning in Springfield.

Earlier this year, local photographer Marinda Cassidy decided she wanted to do something to benefit Willow Oak as a way to say thank you to the organization that helped make Robertson County feel like home.

“The folks at Willow Oak have been a huge part of making me feel connected to this community and giving back to them whenever I’m able is such a privilege,” says Marinda.

Marinda was inspired while watching a video of a woman who upcycled 100 tea towels to make a dress. She had the idea to make a skirt, one panel piece at a time, each piece decorated by another member of the community. The skirt will be auctioned off at the Willow Oak annual gala on April 5.

The fabric panels, available for pickup at Willow Oak, can be embellished with paint, fabric, screen printing, embroidery … however the artist sees fit. Creativity is, of course, highly encouraged but amateurs are encouraged to join in the fun.

“You do not need to be a master artist to participate,” emphasizes Marinda. “We love all levels and ages of creatives in this community.”

Marinda recommends looking for inspiration in thinking about your favorite things.

“I decided to do my favorite flower, the daffodil,” she says. “Seeing daffodils brings me a special joy that only the daffodil can.”

Marinda hopes this project will pay it forward to further the availability of arts education in her community.

“The gala raises funds to make classes at Willow Oak more affordable,” she explains. “It’s a wonderful place and I want more people to experience it.”

Panels must be turned in by March 24. They can be picked up at Willow Oak or by contacting Marinda at marinda.cassidy.sdvi@gmail.com