May 17: Art World and Drug Policy Reform Movement Forge Groundbreaking Partnership at Sikkema Jenkins & Co

On May 17th Sikkema Jenkins & Co. will host re:FORM, an art auction and cocktail party to benefit the Drug Policy Alliance (DPA), the nation’s leading organization promoting alternatives to the drug war that are grounded in science, compassion, health and human rights. re:FORM represents the third installment in a groundbreaking partnership between the art world and the drug policy reform movement, following the first two successful events in 2005 and 2008. Donald Baechler and Fred Tomaselli are Artist Co-chairs. Honorary Co-Chairs are film director Darren Aronofsky and philanthropic art supporters Peter Lewis, George Soros, and Elizabeth Sackler. The event will honor longtime advocate Artie Malkin who has been at the forefront of dozens of successful legislative campaigns, including the reform of the Rockefeller Drug Laws. Contributing artists include Kara Walker, John Waters and Petah Coyne.

Few public policies have undermined fundamental civil rights and liberties, social justice and public health for so long and to such an extent as the drug war. The U.S. now has the highest incarceration rate in the world–one American adult out of every 100 is currently behind bars. The United States makes up less than 5 percent of the world’s population but close to 25 percent of the world’s incarcerated population. More than half a million people are behind bars tonight for nothing more than a drug law violation. More than 750,000 Americans were arrested last year for simple marijuana possession. The drug war even targets sick and dying Americans, thousands of whom are regularly denied access to medical marijuana, a medication with proven medical benefits for the treatment of a wide range of serious illnesses. This art auction benefit is inspired by past artists who have used art as a vehicle for social change. It is our hope that this show will enlighten others to join us in our attempt to stop the madness of the war on drugs.

What: An art auction and cocktail benefit at Sikkema Jenkins & Co. 530 West 22nd Street New York, NY 10011

When: Monday, May 17, 6-9 p.m.

Who: Works donated by established and emerging artists, including Louise Lawler, Faith Ringgold, Scott Hug, Cordy Ryman, Fred Tomaselli, and many more.”

For more information please contact Livet Reichard Company at 212.868.8450 x 209 or visit our website.