It seems like the economic down turn has effected everyone I know.  Certainly galleries, artists, art material suppliers, frame material suppliers...well you get the picture...are all finding ways to cut corners or tighten belts.
Admittedly there are times I am too focused on the things I "want" or things I think I "need" but can't afford.  Yet I find there are always others in worse circumstances than I.  Many an artist has wished for a benevolent collector to come along and rescue them from the poverty their love of painting has created.  How about a White-Knight to put food on the table or a coat on the kids.  Since there are many less fortunate than I, why don't I become the White-Knight to them?  By donating artwork to "fund raisers" an artist can help the many in need.  How many paintings sit in the studio that could be used in this way?  Better yet, how about doing an exceptionally good work to be auctioned off for a charity or an individual?  I may not be wealthy, but I am a few rungs up the ladder from someone.  We can reach down to help others take another step up.  Best wishes, Jerry