Many years ago, as a sophomore at Tulane University, I sat in my Intro to Psychology class and learned something that has truly stuck with me, a theory designed by Abraham Maslow in 1943. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a basic framework to understand humanity and its motivations. It is a theory of psychology that explains and compares the basic needs of man, such as food, shelter, clothing, procreation, and safety, vs. the need to be loved, the need for self-esteem, and the highest need of all: the need for self-actualization. Once our basic survival and comfort is accomplished, it is still not enough. We need to be fulfilled on an intellectual, creative, and spiritual level.

I had an epiphany the other day – which is that The Art League exists to provide a path to self-actualization for its members and students. It is the vehicle by which we artists may hone our talents, and become our very best selves, by expanding our artistic horizons. It is a guide in our endless search to be more.

Every non-profit organization has a mission, and ours is self-actualization for our community of artists. We could print Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs on our brochures, with the top of the pyramid circled, with an arrow pointing to the phrase ”study and grow here.”

It is a privilege for our members, staff, teachers, and volunteers to be a part of the growth of so many individuals from our surrounding communities. Won’t you please join us in this worthy mission? Sign up for a class, become a friend, and/or support our mission financially. The Arts are being cut from school curricula every day, and The Art League is one of the last remaining schools to offer certain classes. We are unique, we provide quality, and you will not find our equal anywhere to help fulfill your dream of self-actualization.

Best,

Patsie Uchello, Art League Board, 2nd Vice President