Casting Connections: Russell Ford’s Artistic Bridge Between Zambia and the U.S.

When artist and longtime GSGC supporter Russell Ford spent five weeks in the vibrant Wayi Wayi Art Gallery in Livingstone, Zambia, he ate fish from the Zambezi River daily. He easily drew parallels between his hometown of Vancouver, Washington, on the banks of the Columbia River, and Livingstone, on the banks of the Zambezi.

As an artist-in-residence at Wayi Wayi, Russell worked with — and ate with — members of the gallery’s GSGC-supported youth clubs. So when he first decided to raise money for GSGC by participating in the Clark County Open Studios tour, fish took center stage. He dubbed his 2018 fundraiser, “Casting A Wider Net.” Russell hasn’t stopped donating his talents since.

He opened his home studio again this past month for the annual event, when artists throughout the county invite the community to see their workspace and works. He and his wife, Barbara donated a substantial portion of his proceeds to GSGC. Thank you once again, Russell and Barbara.

The Fords believe in education. They believe in gender equity. And as a retired art teacher, Russell is truly a mentor — creative, resourceful and dedicated.

That first year, Russell sold 55 ceramic fish he’d created in his backyard kiln. Long-legged birds, leaves and other creatures have followed. He likes how the event takes art out of pricey venues and makes it and the creative process more accessible to the public.

“My mission was to explore the arts and connectedness I saw in Africa with the art community here,” he explained. “Art making can feel like an indulgence. To do it for a bigger cause takes the ego out of it and allows everyone to participate. It’s a perfect opportunity for community building.”

This year, Russell’s creations were finials to top fence posts, masks made in the Raku process and various sculptures. His imagination knows no bounds.

Deeply rooted in his city, Russell’s participation drew artists, the general public, and a volunteer staff of eight — five of them GSGC related. Visitors were introduced to GSGC by founder Priscilla Plummer, board member Paige Hasson, volunteer Denice Harvey and supporters Kathy Gordon and Michelle Hunter, all of whom had been to GSGC-supported youth clubs in Southern Africa, including Wayi Wayi and Believe Girls Club, also in Livingstone.

Still profoundly connected to his experience in Africa, Russell instantly felt transported that cold, rainy November day across the 10,000 miles to sunny, dry Zambia, thanks to a kindness and technology.

Denice’s cell phone rang. She answered when she saw the caller’s name. It was Believe Club Mentor Racheal Musonda Ng’andu. Denice handed the phone to Russell.

“It was so serendipitous,” said Russell. “To have that connection was really neat. It took me right back there in no time at all. The conversation isn’t awkward at all.”

The two chatted like old friends. Russell told Racheal about Open Studios. Racheal thanked Russell for supporting GSGC.

“You can’t make that stuff up, the genuine caring and concern and outreach to us,” he said. “It’s serendipity when there’s outreach going on here, and it happens to be at the exact moment she called. Wow. What a great thing to have this community at the other end of the world.”

Read our previous posts about Russel’s support and experience with GSGC; A Deep Personal Experience in Africa and A Truly Fine Kettle of Fish.