Annual Report for 2020

THE TOUCHSTONE FOUNDATION FOR THE ARTS (TFA) IS A NONPROFIT TAX-EXEMPT 501(C)(3) ORGANIZATION CREATED BY THE ARTISTS OF TOUCHSTONE GALLERY IN WASHINGTON, DC. THE MISSION OF TFA IS TO EXPAND THE REACH OF TOUCHSTONE GALLERY AND ITS ARTISTS INTO OUR COMMUNITY.

TFA activities were largely curtailed this past year due to the covid-19 coronavirus pandemic.  Touchstone Gallery’s physical space closed in March due to quarantine rules in the District of Columbia.  However, Ksenia Grishkova, TFA’s Executive Director and Director of Touchstone Gallery, created a virtual gallery that has been quite successful and well received by the public.

In February, TFA sponsored ‘Exposed DC Photography’ for the second year.  Exposed DC connects photographers of all levels with networking, mentoring, and exhibition opportunities.  This exhibit was held in the physical gallery before the pandemic required quarantine and closure. 

TFA sponsored ‘Us: What divides us and what unites us?’, a virtual juried show that drew entrants from around the world as far as Japan and South Africa.  The show was presented in a virtual gallery from September 18 – November 3.  Several of the artist participated in an artist’s talk through Zoom.

“Busboys and Poets” sponsored a virtual discussion on the topic of exhibitions and community spirit of Touchstone Gallery including the work of the TFA.  Several past and present TFA board members spoke on the history and aims of TFA along with sponsored projects with New Community ArtSpace and ArtWatch.

There were no new TFA Fellows chosen this year because of limitations of a gallery experience.  Jenny Wu’s solo show was postponed.  Her fellowship tenure was extended an additional year.  During this time Jenny has been instrumental in technical aspects of gallery activities, especially the virtual gallery.  In addition, she has continued to pursue an active involvement in art.

Steve Wanna has had his work presented in several shows in and around the DC/Maryland/Virginia area.  Michael Cabezas has participated in group shows and outdoor flea markets, selling art to raise money for several causes.

TFA wishes to acknowledge being remembered in the will of Steve Alderton.  Steve, who we lost last year, was a member of Touchstone Gallery for over 20 years.  He was  twice a president of Touchstone Gallery and always an active and concerned member.  His support will significantly help the foundation carry out its programs and goals.

Board of Directors

Anita Miller, Developmental Psychologist, President

Susi Cora, Visual Artist, Treasurer

Rachel Dickerson, Director, ArtSpaceDC at the New Community Church

Gabrielle Tillenburg, Filmmaker/Artist, Visual Arts Coordinator at Strathmore, and Freelance Photographer

Andrew Johnson, Curator and Arts Writer

Michael Lang, Liaison to Touchstone Gallery