This is an experiment in magic & generosity. This is my taking up arms against loneliness.

Dear Reader,

What would happen if I started writing people letters again, like really? What would happen if I committed to written communication with a specific audience, to document both my life and my relationships, to express myself only through what I could write, and what I could fit into an envelope?

I’ll call it – Alone, together.

The work is not a nostalgic turn to forgotten times; instead I see it as a committed approached to attend to the messy, entangled times we live in, both alone and together. I am grateful [Allyson] keeps showing up and inviting us into a heart and mind that is liminal and loving. – Mar.23 recipient

I opened the idea up to the public on Jan. 4, 2019, through an Instagram post. For a fee of $100, interested persons would be added to my address book, and mailing list. I committed to write one person each day, for a period of 365 days (to begin with). 

Here is an article Sofia Rodriguez wrote about ‘Alone, together’ for the CBC. The article was written in response to my having written one of their journalists as part of the project itself, and I include it here as a well-written document on the impact this project will have. 

So far, 39 people have signed up (and paid) to be added to my mailing list – to join this growing community of curious, considerate, and generous souls. If you would also like to join this community and be on the receiving end of what I have to offer, I am able to accept 10 last people, right now.  This is the most personal and direct way that individuals can support my work, and keep in touch with me. Alone, together – we are what I hope for. 

Email, leftysmudges@gmail.com to participate.

This 365 day project is going to touch so many people at exactly the right moment they need it. And share what we all strive for…to give more than we receive, to support each other, to connect and thrive in community.’ — Jan.9,2019 Recipient

P.S. As the artist, I have complete creative control over what I send. ❤