Fundraiser: Investing in our mothers is investing in our future

My name is Vashti Mims, and I am a fine artist based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. My artistic mission is deeply rooted in shedding light on the voices and stories of women, particularly within creative spaces. I am honored to present this project proposal, where I will outline my journey, the purpose of this project, its progress, and my vision for taking it to the next level.

For as long as I can remember, art has been a refuge for me. I grew up exploring museums, drawing inspiration from the artwork around me, and teaching myself the fundamentals of drawing through books. Art became my emotional outlet, especially in moments of anxiety and overwhelm. But as life grew more complicated, I stepped away from it—until 2020. That year was transformative for many, including myself.

In 2020, I went through a divorce, became a single mother of two, and battled anxiety and depression. I felt isolated, struggling to navigate a world that felt more uncertain than ever. Out of that darkness, I picked up a paintbrush—and I haven’t put it down since. Painting became more than an escape; it was a way to regain control, to process my emotions, and to reconnect with myself.

After the murder of George Floyd, I created a painting titled Tears of Blue to shed light on Black experiences and stories. The overwhelming response to this piece solidified my purpose: I wanted my art to be a tool for mental health awareness in the Black community. Growing up, conversations about mental health were rare. I felt ashamed to struggle and even more ashamed to ask for help. Only later did I realize that so many others shared my experience.

Statistics show that only 21% of African Americans report mental health struggles, and of those, only 39% seek professional help. These numbers rise even higher for single mothers, who face increased rates of depression, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. I want to use my art to amplify these stories, to show both the struggles and the resilience of single mothers, and to create a space where vulnerability is seen as strength.

One of my proudest achievements is Still Water, my commissioned piece in the permanent collection at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum. It was designed as a meditation piece—an invitation to pause, take a deep breath, and release the weight of the world for a moment. My hope is that when visitors stand before it, they feel a sense of peace.

My children are a major inspiration for this project. At just 8 and 6 years old, they already understand the importance of kindness—first to themselves, and then to others. In our home, we follow the rule: "Put on your own oxygen mask first, then help those around you." I believe that by supporting and uplifting single mothers, we are investing in the well-being of future generations.

Art saved my life, and I want to use it to uplift others. As a full-time artist and single mother, financial insecurity often limits my ability to take on large projects. However, I believe this work is necessary—not just for my personal growth, but for the impact it can have on the community.

This project is about more than just paintings. It’s about representation, empowerment, and creating a lasting impact. Through this series, I want to show the full spectrum of single motherhood—the joys, the hardships, and the resilience. By partnering with local nonprofits, I also want to directly support struggling families, ensuring that this work creates tangible change.

Due to the overwhelming support of my work and outreach projects, I know I need to dedicate myself fully to making a bigger impact. My vision is to create a series of 8-12 pieces that highlight the real experiences of single mothers, ensuring they feel seen and supported.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I would be honored to partner with you to bring this vision to life.

Art & Resilience: A Year-Long Creative Investment

Project Goal: To create a year-long body of work exploring themes of mental health, resilience, and the strength of single mothers, culminating in a large-scale exhibition.

Project Timeline:

2024 – The Spark

The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum purchased my painting Echinacea for its permanent collection.

Shortly after, the museum commissioned my second painting, Still Water, which is also now part of their permanent collection.

Seeing the public response to these works inspired me to expand the conversation and create a larger body of work centered on the resilience of single mothers and mental health in the Black community.

2025 – Laying the Foundation (Current Phase)

Secure funding and investments to dedicate myself fully to this project.

Identify and finalize a venue for the culminating exhibition.

Conduct research on organizations that support single mothers and mental health to find the right nonprofit partner.

Begin preliminary artwork and storytelling to develop the overarching themes of the series.

2026 – Full-Time Creation & Exhibition Execution

Develop 8-12 large-scale works that capture the stories of single mothers and mental health journeys.

Implement community engagement efforts, such as artist talks, workshops, and interactive elements.

Host the final showcase, providing visibility, support, and financial assistance to single mothers in partnership with the selected nonprofit.

Funding Needed: $40,000 – $100,000+

This investment will provide financial stability throughout the entire process, covering:

Living Expenses ($24,000 – $60,000)

Ensuring I can focus entirely on the project without financial barriers.

Art Supplies & Production ($10,000 – $20,000)

Canvases, paints, brushes, framing, and professional documentation.

Exhibition & Venue Costs ($6,000 – $14,000)

Rental fees, installation, and marketing for the final showcase.

Community Engagement & Outreach ($4,000 – $10,000)

Promotional efforts, artist-led workshops, and public engagement.

Research & Direct Community Support ($6,000 – $15,000)

Partnering with a nonprofit and providing direct assistance to single mothers in need.

Ways to Support

I understand that not everyone can commit to funding the full amount, but any level of support—big or small—makes a difference. Contributions of any size help move this project forward, and I deeply appreciate any support you can provide.

If financial support isn’t possible, there are still impactful ways to help:

Sponsorship Opportunities

Venue Sponsorship: If you have access to a gallery, cultural center, or event space, sponsoring the venue would be an incredible way to support the project.

Supply Sponsorship: Donations of art supplies, printing services, or framing would be invaluable in bringing these pieces to life.

Connections & Outreach

If you know of organizations, businesses, or potential sponsors who align with this project, I would love an introduction.

If you or your organization are interested in supporting, I would be happy to discuss ways we can collaborate.

Offering Direct Contacts

If you have contacts within art institutions, nonprofits supporting single mothers, or mental health organizations, I would love the opportunity to connect.

I’m also looking for potential sponsors or grant opportunities—if you have direct names or emails of decision-makers, that would be extremely helpful.

Amplification & Advocacy

Simply sharing this project with others who may be interested in supporting can have a huge impact.

This timeline clearly establishes 2024 as the inspiration and launch point, 2025 as the funding and research phase, and 2026 as the creation and execution phase. I’m incredibly excited to bring this vision to life and appreciate any support along the way.

https://gofund.me/5bad5de4