G COIN PROJECT

“Talent is being wasted; lives are being lost; help me make a difference.” - Gerard Basil

Born and raised in South Central Los Angeles, Gerard Basil had childhood dreams of becoming an artist. When community resources and opportunities were limited, outlets for creative pursuits were nonexistent; and the temptation for trouble was pervasive. Determined to succeed but having doubts of art’s feasibility and profitability – and fearing the discouraging motif of a “starving artist” – Gerard shelved his artistic ambitions and spent the early years of his career in costume and set design. After a successful run in design, Gerard returned to his childhood dream of fine art with renewed vision and tenacity. Now, directing focus back to the place that raised him, he asks himself:

“Can I create a transformative space for young artists – a place that would have shaped my youth?”

Docēre is a Latin word meaning “to teach”. With the objection of putting action to words, paying forward opportunity and developing potential in fine art, Gerard establishes the next link in the chain with Studio Docēre L.A. by Gerard Basil. A reimagined studio space, Studio Docēre L.A. will not only provide a workplace and equipment for young artists but support a mentorship program to shape promising sculptors, guiding them to realize their true potential. The studio will promote an inclusive community space for networking, classes and local speakers, promoting independence and positivity in youth through art and entrepreneurship. As a nonprofit organization, the studio itself will be funded and sustained by fine art, with its first initiative being The G-Coin Project.

The G-Coin Project will raise funds for the acquisition of an open-concept studio and its transformation into an institution for learning and opportunity. A series of 2,000 bronze medallions measuring four inches in diameter were cast using the Lost Wax Process; then each finished, signed and numbered by the artist Gerard Basil. Benefactors with donations matching or exceeding $2,000 will be named as a founder of Studio Docēre L.A., commemorated with a plaque in the studio, and gifted a G-Coin. 80% of the G-Coin Project revenue will fund the development of Studio Docēre L.A., with the balance covering production costs of the coin itself. These coins serve as a vessel to invest in the next generation of self-starters and empower others to turn their dreams and ideas into reality. As these coins illustrate, one small idea can grow and produce tremendous effects.

MISSION STATEMENT

Studio Docēre L.A. by Gerard Basil strives to cultivate potential and support the next generation of artists by providing a place to learn, a place to work, and a platform to build a business and strong character through art and entrepreneurship. The non-profit project provides an intersection of art, business and the exchange of ideas in a positive and forward-thinking environment. Ultimately, opportunity can and does change the world.