Local Artist Turns Childhood Hardship into Hope for Families

A local ceramic artist known as Lucky Dogwood is transforming personal history into meaningful impact for families in Crawford County. Through the sale of her handcrafted pottery, Lucky Dogwood donated $1,305 to the 100 Families Initiative, directly supporting families navigating seasons of crisis.

The donation was presented during a community art event hosted at Arts on Main, where Lucky Dogwood’s pottery was sold specifically as a charitable effort. The event was made possible through the leadership and partnership of Lacy Hendrix, Director of Arts on Main Museum and Programming, and Stephanie Marquez, Ceramic Studio Manager at Arts on Main. Both are partners of the 100 Families Initiative and were instrumental in coordinating the event and elevating its impact.

For Lucky Dogwood, the cause is deeply personal. She recalls that as a child, Christmas break was often one of the hardest times of the year. With school out, the reliable meals she depended on disappeared, and hunger became a familiar companion. Many nights were spent going to bed hungry—an experience that left a lasting impression and ultimately shaped the heart behind her art.

Now, as an adult and artist, Lucky Dogwood has returned to her Choctaw roots, drawing inspiration from traditional practices and cultural storytelling. Her ceramics are more than functional pieces; they are expressions of resilience, heritage, and care. Through her work, she is intentionally giving back to children and families facing the same food insecurity and stress she once endured—offering art not just as an object, but as a gift of understanding and hope.

The proceeds from the pottery sale were formally accepted by Becky Petty, the Crawford County Coordinator for the 100 Families Initiative. The funds raised from the event allowed the 100 Families Initiative to purchase thirteen $100 Harps gift certificates, designated for food purchases. These certificates will be distributed to families experiencing food insecurity throughout the Christmas break, a time when many children lose access to school-provided breakfasts and lunches.

“These gift cards help our families focus on time together during the holidays, rather than worrying about how they will put food on the table,” Petty shared.

This collaboration between a local artist, a trusted arts institution, and a community-driven initiative reflects the power of partnership in action. By blending creativity with compassion, Lucky Dogwood, Arts on Main, and the 100 Families Initiative demonstrated how lived experience, cultural heritage, and community support can come together to create lasting impact.