GlocalNet

I remember dragging my kids through the painting galleries in Hanoi.  They would kick and scream, but now they love it.  They like the paintings, the bags, the music, all of it.  You can’t underestimate the power of art in a culture.  There’s something about the food, the smells and flavors.  With history, it’s the story.  With architecture and topography, you see the place.  BUT, in art, you feel the place. 

Since my son Ben’s grown up at NorthWood, he’s heard all the stories and teachings about using your job to make a difference. He’s launching his first project to do some business in Vietnam, and, around the world for that matter, in opening markets to people who would never have a chance, by starting off first with paintings.  You can visit his site at http://www.globalartinferno.org/

Artists really do struggle, around the world, far worse than here.  I met these guys, in the photo, in the main open market in Lisbon, Portugal a couple of days ago.  They are painters that don’t have much access.  I visited with them.  Maybe Ben will be able to include them.  Not sure, but they reminded me of the painters I’ve met in Vietnam, the Middle-East, and other places.  The guy in the second photo is from India, but travels with a group of painters throughout Europe.

I’m proud of you, Ben.  Keep practicing it.  You’ll stumble some, but keep moving forward.  Keep figuring it out.  In the end, anyone can make money with the right breaks, connections, and resources, but to do business, not just to make money, but to raise others up, that honors God and blesses others.