Greg Kelly

One of the great things about building a business around relationships and community is that we get to be a part of so much more than just making a product. As we work with clients to help them understand what their needs are and how our vision and their vision can come together, we find that we grow to know and care about so much more than a singular project. And so often we leave with not only a product that really matters but with a great friendship too.

This is a model that we did not particularly strategize about but rather came naturally to us. We love working with friends. And so, we become friends with our clients. Of course, we strongly believe in a professional relationship that allows for proper communication and understanding about service. But we also cannot help finding a connection as we look to make a product that is driven to communicate honestly about the work our clients are pursuing. It just flows from what we do.

Art, business and community do not have to live in a state of disconnect. In fact, we believe these things are meant to exist together. Again and again, we see that the most vibrant models of success come when these three elements are all joined in harmony. And at Squid and Beard, our work exists as a tool for making those connections happen.

As said, this is a model that came naturally to us. But, it has also been found through the guidance of some insightful clients/friends/artists. High up on that list is our great friend, Greg Kelly. A mentor, a client, a friend, an artist, an activist, a patron…Greg covers the whole spectrum. He has served as a perfect example for us about how the new model looks for business today. Greg has been a great teacher and encouragement for us and we are very grateful.

For those who do not know, Greg Kelly is the executive director of The Bridge Progressive Arts Initiative in Charlottesville, Virginia. He works as an advocate for artist of all types and works hard to see how art and community can shape each other for the good of humanity and the world around us. He has extraordinary vision with his work and is one of those amazing people who can help take a barely formed concept and turn it into reality. Any of his friends can tell you that he works tirelessly to see artists and communities realize their potential. And we can certainly testify to that.

So now, we have a chance to champion this man who has committed his life to champion others. Greg has created an illustration project called Pigeon. It is honest, challenging, charming, odd, beautiful, subtle, in your face and full of potential. And it is our belief that you should support Greg in this work. You will not regret it.

Go to his Kickstarter project and take a look at what he is doing. And consider donating to this cause. In fact, don’t even consider…just go ahead and donate blindly. You’re good faith will see reward.

See the project here: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1067756127/pigeon