Recap: Blue Moon Campaign

Blue Moon chairs Janet and John Melamed

GENEROUS SUPPORTERS MAKE THE HEARD MUSEUM’S FIRST VIRTUAL GALA A SUCCESS

On Oct. 31, the Heard Museum celebrated the conclusion of the Once in a Blue Moon campaign, which took the place of Moondance. The Once in a Blue Moon campaign raised an astonishing $890,553 for operating support that sustained the Heard Museum through the most challenging spring and summer in our 90-year history. Nearly 150 donors made generous gifts in support of the effort, ranging from $50 to $100,000. The campaign was chaired by Janet and John Melamed, who led a dynamic and highly engaged committee of Trustees and community supporters.

To celebrate the campaign’s success, the Heard hosted a free community admission day on the 31st in honor of our healthcare heroes and medical first responders, with music provided in the courtyard by flutist Jonah Littlesunday (Navajo).

Joy Harjo Betty Van Denburgh

That evening, supporters of the Once in a Blue Moon campaign gathered virtually, enjoying Southwest favorites in Heard-themed gift boxes delivered prior to the event. Guests watched the blue moon rise and were the first to see the newly dedicated Blue Moon Garden located at the museum’s northern entrance.

The Heard was thrilled to honor United States Poet Laureate Joy Harjo (Mvskoke) and longtime Museum supporter and volunteer Betty Van Denburgh. Acclaimed artist Steven Yazzie (Navajo/Laguna Pueblo/ European) produced beautiful videos celebrating each honoree which premiered at the event and are available for all to enjoy on the Heard’s YouTube channel.

Gabriel Ayala (Yaqui) wowed guests with his beautiful guitar playing, and Joy. Harjo did the same with her recitations of two poems, The Life of Beauty and Grace.

Thanks to the generosity of individual and corporate sponsors, the Once in a Blue Moon campaign enabled the Heard Museum to safely reopen and continue pursuing its mission in new, innovative ways. Funds from the campaign supported the Heard’s ongoing operations, including its exhibitions, programs, grounds, and staff.

Thank you to each and every supporter of this important effort. Your generosity makes our work possible!

David Roche, Dickey Family Director and CEO

Remembering the Future

I THINK THAT THE NATIVE AMERICAN COMMUNITY HAS SOMETHING TO OFFER THE WORLD. IT HAS A MEDICINE TO GIVE.

James Lavadour, member of the Walla Walla Tribe, artist

SAVE THE DATE | FALL 2021

Patrick DesJarlait Ojibwa, 1921-1973 Chippewa Fishing Camp, 1970 Watercolor on board 14” x 11 1/4” Heard Museum Collection, 3675-1