September 25, 2002

Gallery sponsors CERF benefit

Area metalsmith speaks on personal experience with craft relief fund

By LISA PERKINS
Herald staff writer
       Bob Purvis knows first hand that in the midst of tragedy, the help of a friend is priceless.
      That's how Purvis, an area metalsmith, feels about CERF - the Craft Emergency Relief Fund. CERF, who provides assistance to professional craftspeople who have suffered career-threatening emergencies in their lives, came to his assistance three years ago when his studio and all of its contents were destroyed by an arsonist.
      "It was April 30, 1999, a night when the full moon rises at the exact moment the sun sets. After an evening out, I returned home to find 60 fire fighters and 11 units fighting the fire in what was left of my studio," Purvis said.
      "All that I managed to save were some hand tools. I had lost everything, including all of the pieces I had been working on. I thought what am I going to do, how can I possibly start again."
      That's when a friend and fellow craftsman told Purvis about CERF. Purvis contacted CERF and within a few days had received a check to help him get back on his feet. The check represented a zero interest loan to be paid back anytime within a five year period. Since 1987, CERF has given more than $300,000 in loans to hundreds of craftspeople from across the country.
      "I can't tell you what a help that was," noted Purvis, who now raises funds to support the CERF cause.
      Purvis shared his story and his gratitude for CERF at an open house held by the Belstone Gallery of Traverse City on Friday. Belstone Gallery is among three galleries in the state and 80 nationwide to designate September as "A Month for CERF."
      Throughout the month gallery owner Marcia Bellinger will accept donations and invites visitors to enter a drawing, to be held at the end of the month, which includes several fine craft items including a piece by Purvis.
      "It is such a good cause, I felt like I had to do my part," Bellinger said.
      Though Purvis has managed to rebuild and begin working again, the night of April 30, 1999 is never far from his thoughts.
      "I have not gotten over the emotional aspect of being a victim of someone's malice, but CERF made getting back on my feet a lot easier. It is all about artists helping other artists. It's great." Purvis noted.
      For more information about CERF, visit their website at www.craftemergency.org.