Jonesboro, AR – Contributed – A community art fair and fundraiser will take place Saturday, Nov. 21, to support Jonesboro resident and artist Lindsay Ainsworth as she prepares for a kidney transplant and related medical and living expenses.
The event will bring together local artists, makers, musicians and community members for an evening celebrating creativity and community while raising funds to support Ainsworth’s transplant journey. Attendees can shop original artwork, handmade clothing and other creations from local vendors, participate in creative activities, and watch talented artists demonstrate their work.
The fundraiser will also feature opportunities to win one-of-a-kind Christmas ornaments designed by participating vendors, along with a silent auction featuring artwork, unique experiences, classes, art supplies and more. Online bidding for the silent auction opens Sunday, Nov. 15, at midnight. Vendor registration and silent auction donation submissions closed on Sunday, Nov. 8.
“Over the past several months, the event has brought together first-time artists, longtime creatives, and community volunteers to create something meaningful,” said Lindsay Ainsworth. “For me, that’s what I want to share: the power of art, healing, and community.”
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Live entertainment will be provided by Mark Currey, a 2026 Mid-America Arts Alliance Catalyze Fellow, and Jonesboro’s own Justin Castro of Delta Bruise.
Ainsworth’s need for a second transplant comes after nearly 16 years of managing end-stage renal disease. Her first kidney transplant provided approximately 13 years of support, allowing her to remain near Vanderbilt, her transplant hospital, during recovery and helping cover essential travel, food and lodging expenses.
A longtime resident of Jonesboro and Northeast Arkansas, Ainsworth is a recent graduate of Arkansas State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design. She is passionate about creating art, helping others and building community through creative expression. She is also fortunate to have a living donor, her cousin Tiffany Brackenrich, who will need support during her own recovery.
Fundraising support will help Ainsworth manage transplant-related travel to Vanderbilt, living expenses while she is unable to work, recovery costs for both Ainsworth and her donor, and potential expenses associated with lifesaving anti-rejection medications.
The art fair reflects Ainsworth’s love of art and the strength of the community surrounding her. She is grateful for the partnership and support of Bradbury Art Museum, Northeast Arkansas Visual Artists (NEAVAL), the American Advertising Federation of Northeast Arkansas (AAF NEA), and Help Hope Live.
The event will take place from 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday, November 21, with prizes beginning to be awarded around 7:30 p.m. Community members are encouraged to attend, support local artists, participate in the silent auction and help spread the word about Ainsworth’s journey.
Artists and makers interested in participating as vendors, individuals wishing to donate artwork or auction items, and community members interested in volunteering are encouraged to get involved before the November 8 deadline.
For more information about participating in the fundraiser or supporting Ainsworth, community members can connect with the event organizers.
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