Carrie Janzen is an MCC supporter who donated her painting, Bread of Life, to the 2023 MCC Alberta Relief Auction.It was sold for $850 to support relief, development and peace.
My first introduction to watercolor was about 20 years ago, when a very talented friend held a class in her basement. I was mesmerized with the way the pigment and water reacted together and although I dabbled a bit over the next several years, I never really had time or spent time painting. Shortly after I retired from work, the pandemic hit, and I took the opportunity in that time of isolation to submerse myself in some online watercolour courses. This really helped me with both technique and confidence, to where I’ve been able to sell my work and embrace the thought of being an artist. I love to paint, and I love the fact that the work I do can spread joy, even in little ways. I keep learning.
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Carrie Janzen, "Bread of Life". 2022. Watercolour on canvas.
When I was approached about donating a painting for the MCC online auction, my biggest concern was coming up with something that might appeal to at least two bidders. After all, the intent is to raise money for incredibly important and critical causes! I felt my heart tug for the women who toil in the fields and care for their children at the same time. The reality of their struggles lay in sharp contrast to my experience as a family in agriculture.
Growing up in a Mennonite community, I was always aware of the relief work done by MCC. My grandparents spoke of the Russian Revolution and how in the 1920s MCC was there to help my family and many others escape the violence there to settle in Canada. It’s the ongoing work that MCC does and its high rating as a charitable organization that have always kept us engaged in being involved and contributing how we can. The fellowship and friendships that have been formed under the umbrella of MCC have also added significant meaning to our lives. Who can forget the MCC sales with the fabulous food, the gorgeous quilts, the kid’s corners and plant sales!
I am prayerfully hoping that the painting will raise further awareness of the realities faced in parts of the world where layer upon layer of crisis affects families, and especially women and children.
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Learn more about the MCC Alberta Relief Sale, including how to donate to the auction, at the button below.
