Wendy Rodrigue began the 2020 Life & Legacy Tour the week of February 18-21, in a place very near and dear to her heart– HOME! Wendy grew up on the sandy white beaches of the Florida Emerald Coast, and was delighted to return to Destin, and the surrounding area, to share the Life and Art of George Rodrigue, in a special partnership with the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation.
This week I returned home to the beaches where I grew up. Partnering with the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation and sharing George through Life & Legacy Foundation on the Emerald Coast is the gift that keeps on giving. I am blessed, grateful, and overcome.
wendy rodrigue
Emerald Coast Autism Center, February 18
What a special day, and what a special place! Wendy visited with two groups of all ages at the Emerald Coast Autism Center, and it could not have been more joyful. The enthusiasm of the students enhanced Wendy’s own storytelling, and the questions, comments, expressions, and laughter were heartwarming. Wendy was even invited to see a special coin collection!
It was a beautiful reminder that sharing George’s art knows no boundaries– art connects us all, and the impacts are limitless!
Love for the Arts Guild Luncheon, February 19
On Wednesday, Wendy helped kick off the 25th Anniversary of the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, as the speaker at their Love for the Arts Guild Luncheon. Wendy presented to a sold out house, alongside musician David Seering, who accompanied her storytelling so magically. It was a moving and loving tribute to George Rodrigue, AND the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation!
Seaside Neighborhood School, February 20
The 5th and 6th graders at the Seaside Neighborhood School in Seaside, FL are so thoughtful, insightful and marvelous. Wendy’s stories, of George as a young student their age, had them captivated, and their answers to her questions made us all stop and think! What an amazing group of young people, at a spectacular school in a little bit of paradise! Thank you for having Wendy Rodrigue visit and share George’s Life and Legacy!
Children in Crisis, February 20
Thursday afternoon, Wendy made a special visit to Children in Crisis in Fort Walton Beach, a non-profit dedicated to finding homes, and keeping brothers and sisters together. The children were mesmerized by Wendy’s storytelling, and the foster parents were grateful for the interaction. It was a special way to close out the week, and the first part of the 2020 Life & Legacy Tour!
The Life & Legacy Tour experience with Wendy Rodrigue could be described as part storytelling, part art history, part motivational speaking, and ALL HEART! I have witnessed Wendy make authentic connections not only with seasoned art enthusiasts; but also with children with autism, homeless children, and at-risk youth—-including those in foster care. Though we may have never met George Rodrigue in person, I think we all walked away feeling like we have. The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation is honored to partner with the Life & Legacy Foundation & Tour, as we clearly share a passion for outreach arts education.
Melanie Moore
Education Director
Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation