When one of the pillars of Vancouver’s art scene falls ill, it seems the whole city takes notice. Local artist Jamie Bizness – not only a brilliant creative mind, but perhaps the most beautiful spirit and loving heart to touch our local community – was our very first Home Is Where the Art Is feature and the inspiration behind the column as a whole.
Two weeks ago, Jamie was unexpectedly hospitalized for a serious infection that began in his tooth and has been in critical care in the ICU ever since. While we have seen improvement, his journey to wellness will be long. As with many members of our arts community, Jamie is self-employed and without benefits, and the dental and cost-of-living expenses are a strain on Jamie’s family during a time when their only focus should be his healing.
A Go Fund Me page has been set up for anyone who is interested in offering help with the expenses, and local business Lords of Gastown has created a fundraising event taking place Thursday, Mar. 16, at Hastings Warehouse (156 W. Hastings) in support of Jamie’s road to recovery. Entry is by donation and collaborative T-shirts from Jamie Bizness X Lords of Gastown will be sold at the event, with proceeds going to help with Jamie’s expenses.
