In the spirit of re-ART ’08, the current and critically acclaimed exhibition now on display featuring original art from recycled material, Gallery Madera is pleased to present Annie Leonard’s The Story of Stuff; a fact-filled 20 minute film that looks at the underside of our culture’s production and consumption patterns.  The Story of Stuff exposes the connections between a huge number of environmental and social issues, and calls us together to create a more sustainable and just world. It’ll teach you something, it’ll make you laugh, and it just may change the way you look at all the stuff in your life forever.  This free public screening begins at 3:00 p.m. Saturday November 15.

Following the presentation we will host an open discussion moderated by Bill Smith, director of environmental services for the City of Tacoma waste management.  This will be a fantastic opportunity to learn about some of the steps Tacoma is taking to promote waste reduction.

Also participating in the forum will be Tacoma artist, Lynn DiNino.  Bringing an artist’s perspective into our conversation about waste reduction and consumerism will likely be enlightening.  So often, significant cultural changes begin with artists.  Perhaps it is due to their ability to think outside the box – or in this case the garbage can!  Ms. DiNino’s success in helping to bring about significant and ultra-positive changes to Tacoma’s art community is undeniable.

Please come and join in the conversation.

Immediately following the discussion forum we will be hosting the Tacoma Food Co-op’s November membership meeting and potluck.  This will be a wonderful community-building event! Bring your favorite food, family and friends to meet other co-op members and continue the ongoing educational process of creating a food cooperative for Tacoma!