Welcome to Art For Advocacy
ART SERVING AS A CATALYST FOR CHANGE.
OUR MISSION
Art For Advocacy is a Dallas based non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire positive change in the world through offering original works of art by artists interested in using their gifts to make a difference. Our platform is intended to showcase a unique collection of artwork, empowering and supporting each independent artist’s creative journey while touching others in a meaningful way.
All proceeds are donated to the Life Enhancement Association for People (LEAP) — an organization dedicated to helping impoverished communities around the world receive life-changing surgical care.
Meet Our FounderS
Father and son, Michael and Hayden Lee founded Art For Advocacy with the intention of imbuing their own and other’s artwork with a purpose - to help others. Dr. Michael Lee’s medical expertise and work in global charitable healthcare combined with Hayden’s talent and passion for the arts served as the inspiration to combine their gifts to contribute toward a better world.
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Hayden Lee is a young artist who remembers enjoying art history in school and being strongly encouraged by his father to pursue his interest in creating art of his own.
“For me, art became a vehicle to express myself. It’s always been a positive, creative outlet for whatever feelings I needed to bring forward. It’s a special form of communication that helps me connect with others.”
Hayden’s favorite medium is oil paint because the thickness allows him to accentuate the feel and depth of the canvas. He’s recently experimented with India ink. Most of Hayden’s pieces are contemporary in nature featuring geometric shapes and abstract content which is reflective of his love of modern art.
What sparked his idea to start Art For Advocacy?
“Traveling with my father, I saw many people living very different lives than we have. Lots of poverty. That triggered something in me. I asked myself what I could do to change any of that. Using something I am passionate about seemed like a great idea. It gives my love of art a new dimension.”
Hayden is certain art will continue to interest and excite him. Whether it remains a hobby, or he someday explores the opportunities surrounding the business aspects of art as a career, he says, “It will always be part of who I am.”
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Dr. Michael Lee recognized his son’s passion for art years ago.
“I was impressed with the energy and focus he poured into his pieces. Art has been the perfect outlet for Hayden’s creativity. It is exciting to watch him take his passion to a new level.”
As a plastic surgeon, Dr. Lee has built a career practicing his own brand of artistry. Part of the commitment to his “calling” has been performing life changing surgery around the world for those without the means or access to specialized healthcare.
“When Hayden was exploring ways to make art represent more than its intrinsic value, it seemed natural to link his and others' artwork to something meaningful and Art For Advocacy was born. I’m proud of the sensitivity he has shown in pursuing this endeavor.”
