In the Event That...

You Wear Your Art on Your Sleeve

by Dianca Potts

Heart to Heart Art & Fashion Show

Without Craigslist, Linda Smyth wouldn't be hosting a charity event for the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia."It all started with these 3,000 rubber hearts that we got off Craigslist from the free section," she says. Smyth wanted to pay tribute to her boyfriend's two-year-old nephew, who suffers from heart problems, and the rubber hearts provided a creative means to do so.

With the help of F.U.E.L. Collection, she began distributing the red hearts to local artists, including members of Space 1026 and Padlock Gallery, two months ago. She left the artists with these instructions: Incorporate the cardiovascular props into your work. The resulting pieces are mostly mixed-media works and installations, says Smyth.

The Heart to Heart Art & Fashion Show will also highlight the spring lines of local designers, including Smak Parlour and Vagabond Boutique. Clothing and accessories from these and other stores will be on sale. Add that to a silent auction and a raffle for products from Philly bars, salons, and eateries, and you've got a fundraiser that's far from traditional. Except for the complimentary food and booze — which, while it may be traditional, warms even the most unconvential heart.