Today we’d like to introduce you to Salina Wenzel.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
It all started with my passion for animal rescue and the incredible nonprofit leaders I met along the way. I founded and run an animal rescue as well, and I wholeheartedly understand their dedication to their missions. This inspired me to find a creative way to support and promote their work. With a background in fine arts from The Ohio State University and years of teaching art classes with my grandmother (an art instructor with her own art business and studio), I decided to combine my love for painting with my desire to make a positive impact.
I founded Project Good Paint, a small business that organizes paint parties as fundraisers for various nonprofits. Initially, we explored different themes, from landscapes to various images, but the real turning point was the “Paint Your Pet” nights. The response was overwhelming, and it quickly became PGP’s flagship event. People loved the idea of creating a unique masterpiece of their beloved pets while supporting a good cause.
For each ticket sold, we donate 20-30 percent to the featured nonprofit. This approach not only benefits the nonprofits directly but also creates a win-win situation for the venues and myself as an artist. The success of Project Good Paint has allowed me to explore venues all over Columbus and Central Ohio, turning each event into a vibrant celebration of art and philanthropy.
Ultimately, Project Good Paint has become a creation where art, community, and compassion come together. The strategy of hosting paint parties as fundraisers has not only made a positive impact on the lives of animals through various nonprofits but has also created a unique and enjoyable experience for participants. The journey has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited to see how Project Good Paint continues to grow and make a difference in the future.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Certainly, the journey with Project Good Paint has been incredibly rewarding, but like any venture, it hasn’t been without its challenges. However, these obstacles have only fueled my determination to continue on this path towards something greater.
One of the initial struggles was finding the right formula for the paint parties. We experimented with various themes and images before the “Paint Your Pet” nights took off. This trial-and-error phase taught us the importance of adaptability and understanding the pulse of our community.
Navigating the logistics of coordinating events and collaborating with different nonprofits presented its own set of challenges. Each organization has its unique needs and goals and striking a balance to ensure a meaningful contribution from each event required careful planning and coordination.
Financial challenges were also part of the journey. As a small business owner, sustaining the operations and ensuring a significant portion of ticket sales goes to the nonprofits demanded resourcefulness. However, the support from individuals and businesses who shared the vision of Project Good Paint has been instrumental in overcoming these financial hurdles.
Yet, despite these challenges, I believe we’re just scratching the surface of what Project Good Paint can achieve. The innate sense of purpose and the unwavering support from the community have propelled us forward. I’m grateful for the many individuals and businesses that have stood behind the mission of Project Good Paint, making it clear that the challenges we face are surmountable with a shared commitment to our cause.
In essence, these obstacles are not roadblocks but rather stepping stones, and I’m excited about what lies ahead as we continue to paint a brighter future for both the artistic community and the nonprofits we support.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My work with Project Good Paint has allowed me to wear many hats and engage in a variety of creative endeavors.
Beyond Project Good Paint, I’m taking on commissions, murals, selling work, and teaching summer arts programs with Columbus City Schools. While I’ve explored many mediums, most of my work is painting. While running my own 501c3 animal rescue is a passion project and not a paid endeavor, it has been a fulfilling and vital part of my journey that helped create the business dynamics.
What I’m most proud of is the sense of community that has emerged, and I’ve gained a family of artists who share opportunities, knowledge, and support with each other. This collaborative spirit, rather than gatekeeping, is an inspiring characteristic that we should continue to encourage within our community. I take pride in the continuous learning experience, both as a mentee and mentor, growing and sharing ideas and skills.
Ultimately, what is setting me/this/Project Good Paint apart is amplifying the voices of Ohio nonprofits that deserve support. I see my role as a connector, using art as a medium to bring people together, raise awareness, and contribute to the well-being of our community. I firmly believe that everyone is an artist, and anyone can play a role in making a positive difference in the world. I’m just lucky enough to get to guide that idea in any capacity possible. The biggest plus is that it’s all so much fun for everyone.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My advice is to actively seek out and surround yourself with individuals who inspire you. Work or volunteer in areas aligned with your interests. Immerse yourself in environments where you can interact with like-minded individuals. This not only exposes you to potential mentors but also allows you to share ideas, concepts, and experiences with people who share your passions. Attend these gatherings, participate actively, and engage in conversations. You never know who you might meet and what insights they could offer. This approach has been particularly effective for me in expanding my network and finding mentors.
Social media is a powerful tool for networking as well. Join online communities, forums, and groups related to your interests. Engage in discussions and share your work.
Networking is not just about professional connections; it’s about building meaningful relationships with people who inspire and support you. By actively participating in your community, attending events, leveraging social media, and being proactive in seeking mentorship, you can create a network for personal and professional growth. Get out there, engage with others, and embrace the opportunities.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @projectgoodpaint
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/projectgoodpaint
