The Mattera Foundation in conjunction with renowned New York City Graffiti artist,
The Mattera Foundation in conjunction with renowned New York City Graffiti artist, John “Crash” Matos, hosted an evening of Glitz and Glamour on Friday, June 17th and raised $80k to donate to children in Songachi, one of the largest red-light districts in Asia. The money will help build educational and housing centers for the children. John Mattera and his wife Dr. Lan Phan Mattera hosted the event at their home.
“These children are born into this lifestyle and know nothing else, we want to show them and future children that this is not a way of life for them, we want to empower them and provide them with the resources to better their lives,” said Dr. Lan Phan Mattera.
Original Crash paintings were up for auction including: 15 signed mixed media series, limited edition Crash designed Tumi Tag luggage piece signed by Crash, and a custom painted guitar. Special give away bags were handed to each guest; 360 Medical, Tumi, and The Mattera Foundation donated items. Donations can still be made on the Foundation’s website at www.TheMatteraFoundation.com.
The mission of The Mattera Foundation is to strengthen the community through bringing good people and good causes together to help ensure both the excellent stewardship of donor funds and the wise investment of grants in the communities that we serve. The Mattera Foundation puts the joy back in giving.
Born in Bronx, New York, famous graffiti artist John “Crash” Matos began spray painting New York City trains. He was first noticed through his murals on subway cars and buildings, he is now regarded as a pioneer of the Graffiti art movement. His art can be seen at various museums across the world.
Songachi is one of the largest red-light districts in Asia. It is an area with several hundred multi-story brothels. Born Into Brothel’s: Calcutta’s Red Light Kids is a 2004 American documentary film about the children of prostitutes in Songachi, Kolkata’s red light district.
Contributed by multimedia reporter, TV host Li Jing (www.Cultureli.com, www.Facebook.com/li2000, www.Twitter.com/lijingusa)