Werdohl artist Jürgen "Pöngse" Krutzsch has made a significant contribution to his local community by donating 510 euros to the Efa Association's art classes. The painter and musician learned that young aspiring artists in the cultural and integration organization often lacked the financial means to pursue their artistic endeavors, prompting him to take action to support their creative development.
To raise funds for the cause, Krutzsch generously donated one of his original artworks to be auctioned at the city festival by Mayor Andreas Späinghaus of the Social Democratic Party (SPD). The winning bidder was Alexander Schreiber, a sales manager who was immediately drawn to the piece. "I absolutely had to have this painting because I was so captivated by the brilliant color combination of blue and red," Schreiber explained during the official check presentation ceremony.
Schreiber revealed his plans for the artwork, stating that he intends to display the painting prominently in his office. He expressed particular satisfaction with his purchase, noting, "I'm especially pleased that my money is going toward such a worthy cause." The transaction represents a perfect example of how art can bring communities together while supporting emerging talent.
The donation ceremony took place in front of a mural depicting the patron saint Efa, with several key figures from the organization in attendance. Present for the celebration were Efa Association Chairwoman Alexandrina Martin, artist Jürgen Krutzsch, auction winner Alexander Schreiber, art class instructor Irina Hlizhenko, Lothar Jeßegus (the association's second chairperson), and Michael Tauscher, who initiated the organization.
Michael Tauscher, the former director of what was once a city-run Efa project, explained how the funds would be utilized. "We will put the 510 euros into the association's treasury, but we plan to use it primarily to purchase consumable materials for the art classes," he said. Specifically, the money will go toward essential supplies including brushes, paints, and canvases that are crucial for the students' artistic development.
The International Association for the Promotion of Diversity in Werdohl, commonly known as Efa (Europe for All), is still in its early stages of development. The young organization will celebrate its first anniversary this November, marking a year of successful community outreach and cultural integration efforts. This donation represents an important milestone in the association's mission to make art accessible to all members of the community, regardless of their financial circumstances.
