Local Photographer’s Images to Benefit Haitian Relief

by Chuck Welch on Aug 18, 2010 in event | 0 comments

In February, photographer Cindy Skop accompanied reporter Cary McMullen to earthquake-ravaged Haiti. The two Ledger staff reported on the relief efforts of Auburndale businessman Mike Wnek. Now, Skop is using her photographs to help bring relief to the people she photographed.

Skop has teamed with the Polk Museum of Art to uniquely display her photographs — on sheets similar to the makeshift tents many Haitians erected after the earthquake.

The one night show, aftershots: images of desperation & dignity, will benefit Hope for Haiti Healing. The group is a ministry outreach effort organized by Wnek and First United Methodist Church of Auburndale. Skop reported that she has a personal goal to raise $20,000 for the relief effort.

“One structure will house nine people and cost about $7,000 to build,” she said. “I want to raise enough money to build two of these structures and dig a well, so basically I want to raise $20,000-$25,000. If we can house people and make drinking water for them outside their door, I’d be so excited.” — Show of Ledger Photographer’s Work Will Help Haitians

The benefit is 6pm to 9m, Thursday August 19th at the Polk Museum of Art. In addition to Skop’s photos, the benefit will feature Haitian food and entertainment. Though the suggested admission price is $35, Skop has stated she’d accept any amount to allow interested persons to see what she witnessed. Select prints will be available for purchase with all funds collected going to the relief effort.

More information is available on Skop’s Facebook page (login required) and at the PMOA information page.

interior photo credit: Polk Museum of Art for Lakeland Local

front page photo credit: (C) Cindy Skop for The Ledger