VH1 Save The Music Foundation has partnered with the Gibson Foundation for a charitable project that brings musicians and visual artists together to create customized Gibson guitars, all in an effort to raise awareness and funds for music education.
The campaign begins June 8 and includes multiple events that will showcase the guitars, namely a charity auction presented by Julien’s Auctions. The auction will be a part of Julien’s Icons & Idols: Rock and Roll sale.
“For VH1 Save The Music’s 20th Anniversary, we created a project with Gibson that celebrates the impact we’ve had in over 2,000 schools since 1997, combining music, creativity and the power of those to change children’s lives,” said Henry Donahue, executive director of VH1 Save The Music Foundation. “We’ve brought together twenty inspiring musical artists with twenty innovative visual artists to create twenty unique Gibson Les Pauls. We’re incredibly grateful to the musicians, artists, and Gibson artisans who’ve collaborated to make these works of art.”
The project pairs visual artists with famous musicians in a challenge to decorate classic Gibson guitar models with designs inspired by the 20 musicians. Some of the participants include musicians Chris Stapleton, Rick Nielsen, Joe Perry, Miley Cyrus, Gary Clark Jr., Wayne Kramer, Juanes, and visual artists D*Face, Dabs Myla, ThankYouX, LolaBlu, Hudson Marquez and Sage Vaughn. The guitars will be exhibited as part of the Art at Viacom initiative.
“It’s incredibly important to keep music in the schools as well as all the arts,” said Joe Perry, lead guitarist of Aerosmith. “Kids need to be exposed to music as early as possible. As in all the arts it creates an outlet for their creativity. Having Music in school helped me find my calling.”
“Gibson Brands is delighted to partner with VH1 Save The Music Foundation benefitting music education in America’s public schools,” stated Henry Juszkiewicz, Chairman/CEO of Gibson Brands. “We believe that every child should have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument and we’re committed to supporting the Arts as part of a well-rounded curriculum.”
