Raising funds for people in need through art

Whatever we make, we give it all back to the community.”

Richard Feldman, Art for AID founder

Art and community came together to honor two individuals who made significant and impactful contributions, both within the Riverdale community and on a global scale.

Art for AID, a community-based group dedicated to providing financial aid in the Bronx and beyond had a vast collection of artwork on display and available for purchase on Thursday night, Dec. 19. The organization hosted a museum poster show inside Gallery 18 at the Riverdale Y to honor the life and legacies of George Gutierrez and Howard Ring and raise funds for humanitarian causes.

The event boasted dozens of framed posters and prints by iconic artists including Joan Miró, Wassily Kandinsky and Pablo Picasso, donated by the estate of Ring who died in 2022. The longtime bank examiner and avid art collector, who contributed editorial columns to The Press, willed the artworks to his good friend James Lapin with the intent to have the pieces sold under the condition the pieces would generate funds to benefit individuals and families in need.

Ring wanted to make sure the artwork “didn’t go to waste,” according to Lapin.

“Even though he has been gone [for two years], tonight’s turnout shows the community still has a strong and deep appreciation for him,” Lapin said. “Howard was a one of a kind individual.”

Gutierrez, who passed away in March at 71, spent 15 years with the Riverdale Press as a photographer and photo editor and later had his works published in newspapers throughout the country, including The New York Times, The Boston Globe and The Washington Post.

One of Gutierrez’ photos published by The Times captured an EMT worker tearing up at a 9/11 tribute ceremony in Yonkers which contributed to a Pulitzer Prize-winning package.

“He was someone who was filled with passion,” Art for AID founder Richard Feldman said of Gutierrez. “When it came to this event, we wanted to make sure we highlighted his legacy and acknowledged him in the right way.”

Many in attendance felt the spirit of Gutierrez, who also served as The Riverdale Y’s art gallery curator.

“I can definitely feel he’s here with us tonight,” Romina Gutierrez said, who was married to the photojournalist for 20 years.

The event’s special presentation portion included tribute speeches by Feldman, along with other organization members, who spoke to honor both Gutierrez and Howard Ring. Romina Gutierrez was presented with a plaque which she accepted on behalf of her late husband.

Touched by the moment, she teared up, emotions her late husband often captured in his photographs.

“He [George] loved this place [The Riverdale Y] — and he would have truly appreciated what is taking place tonight — because he loved his art and he loved his community,” Romina Gutierrez added.

Art for AID also presented Mosaic Mental Health, previously known as Riverdale Mental Health Institution, with a $200 donation.

“We want to let these people know that they are not alone,” Feldman added. “Mental health affects everybody, but some people are more at risk than others — and everybody needs to understand that.”

The funds generated from the artworks, each available for purchase ranging from $100 to $350, will benefit local food banks and community fridges, according to Feldman.

“Whatever we make, we give it all back to the community,” Feldman said. “We always aim to support the community and do whatever we can to provide them with what they need.”

Art for AID will feature 150 pieces for sale over the next few years.

“This gallery opening is incredibly meaningful for all of us,” Melissa Sigmond said, the CEO of the Riverdale Y. “What is taking place here tonight — it’s the perfect combination of art, community and collaboration.”

Three posters sold on opening night – including Paul Klee’s, “The Red Balloon” and Picasso’s, “The Woman with the Yellow Hair.” The first night generated $475 and all prices are negotiable. 

Described as Riverdale’s only “pop-up, recycle your stuff” store founded by Feldman, Art for AID has raised over $35,000 since 2015, partnering with groups like Riverdale Main Streets Alliance, Bronx Eats and Riverdale Senior Services.

Art for AID’s museum poster show will run until mid-February 2025. Additional artwork is available for purchase online at www.artforaid.info, and will also be included in an art auction and benefit event held at the Riverdale Y sometime in winter 2025.

“The goal of this event was to bring community and art together,” Gallery 18 curator, Elaine Oh said. “Hopefully, this one is the first of many.”