Columns of Hope: How Recycling Ropes Can Help On October 28th, The Columns of Hope, by April Lemly, showed as part of the Surviving and Thriving Exhibit at a gallery on San Francisco’s Minna street. The benefit art show helped two Bay area organizations, San Francisco Women Against Rape (SFWAR) and Women Inc. The organizations support female survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Touchstone climbing gyms donated a number of 100-150 foot ropes, which Lemly hung from the rigging of the room, placed clothespins on, and attached notes to the hanging ropes. The interactive exhibit encouraged viewers to place note cards on the ropes with an emphasis on the “pay it forward” aspect of the piece. The ropes represented struggle, hope, and ultimately freedom.



The exhibit was designed specifically for the space, though Lemly hopes that it will be installed elsewhere. The entire exhibit was recycled, thanks to Touchstone’s donation. “It was really lovely to see this rope that has such a short lifespan really, have a completely different role,” wrote Lemly in a note to Touchstone.



Recycling ropes have helped a number of organizations. For the month of December, the Access Fund will be collecting old ropes and donating $10 to a local access for each rope they collect. Drop off your old ropes at any Touchstone gym. Help art projects like the Columns of Hope, and help access at your local crag.

Labels: Access Fund, recycling ropes, SFWAR

  ¶ Friday, November 19, 2010