“It was clear from the beginning that Rush Philanthropic and Bombay Sapphire shared similar values and ideas. We worked together to create a strong program for the artist community, with the goal of bringing urban art to the forefront,” said Richard McLeod, brand manager for Bombay Sapphire.l
An avid art lover, McLeod helped create the program. “As a patron of the arts myself, I’ve been very involved in this program and am passionate about growing it in future years,” he said. This inaugural event will draw 10 fine arts photographers and ten multimedia artists from around the country to compete in the finale event during Art Basel Miami, December 2010.
The Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation was founded in 1995 by media impresario Russell Simmons, and his brothers, visual artist Danny Simmons; and Joseph “Rev. Run” Simmons, of the legendary hip-hop group Run-DMC. Their goal was to fill the gap that poor and minorities face in both accessing the arts and exhibition opportunities. The response to the program has been overwhelming. McLeod is thrilled by the 1,800 submissions they have received from artists all over the U.S. –tony binns
