Matthew Shepard Foundation Gala

Matthew Shepard Was A Target — portrait by Damon Arhos, as exhibited at the 2018 Matthew Shepard Foundation gala.

Matthew Shepard Foundation Gala
Saturday, October 20 in Denver, Colorado
Hilton Denver City Center

On Saturday, October 20, I had the honor of attending the Matthew Shepard Foundation 20th anniversary gala, where the painting of Matthew Shepard that I created last year — Matthew Shepard Was A Target — was exhibited. (See Targets and Trophies, left.) It was an inspiring evening, one where I met Matthew’s parents Judy and Dennis, Adam Rippon, and so many other gracious people.

I am sincerely grateful to the foundation, which after the event installed the painting in its offices in Denver. I also cannot thank my longtime friends Sharon Power and Brent Spraggins enough, as they not only helped me transport, assemble, and hang the piece, but also hosted me during my stay out west.

Matthew Shepard Foundation | Embracing Diversity
matthewshepard.org