Donor Highlight: Courtney Ford

Meet Courtney Ford, longtime strategic advisor to trailblazing leaders who are impacting the world. Approximately six months ago, Courtney joined the Bakehouse team as a Fractional Chief Development Officer, helping us build our development/fundraising infrastructure and department and prepare us for an eventual capital campaign that coincides with our ambitions to add new cultural and community spaces to our campus along with affordable and workforce housing.

Bakehouse is extremely grateful to Courtney, who, upon joining our team, made a monthly philanthropic commitment to the organization.

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Why is it important to support artists and the organizations that serve them?

Growing up, I didn’t have access to visual art. When I moved to New York City for college, the first place I visited was the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I couldn’t believe a place like this existed—it felt holy. I mustered the gumption to inquire how to get a job there and later worked at the Met throughout college.

Art has made my life immeasurably better. Being in a gallery, museum, or performance hall enhances my mood and makes me feel more connected. Artists and creatives inspire and unite our communities through shared experiences.

I believe it’s important to invest in artists because they provide the antidote we need. Having access to art is scientifically proven to positively impact our social, emotional, and physical health. Who couldn’t use a bit of inspiration to make their day better?

What inspires you about Bakehouse?

I’m inspired by the diversity of practices at Bakehouse—ranging from painting, sculpture, printmaking, metal and woodworking, photography, digital and interactive media, performance art, and history—and how our community of artists feed off one another.

I’m also impressed with Board Chair Jason Korman, who has been very intentional about building a board and leadership team that supports Bakehouse’s vision for the future and centers artists.

Why should someone donate to Bakehouse?

A decade ago, Florida ranked third in the nation for investing in arts and culture. Today, sadly Florida is at the bottom in support. Artists are the heart and soul of our community.

On top of that, Miami’s affordability crisis—with an average rent of $3,280—is making it harder for creatives to live here. Investing in Bakehouse is a no-brainer—you join a group of like-minded people who are committed to unleashing the creative spirit of Miami and nurturing local talent. You also benefit from knowing your investment directly supports what artists need most: affordable studio space.

What is your wish for Bakehouse as it embarks on its next generation for 21st-century artmaking?

My hope is that Bakehouse continues to dream audaciously about building an innovative model for how cities can attract and retain artists. Miami needs it now more than ever.

Where would you like to see Bakehouse in three years?

I’m excited for Executive Director Cathy Leff’s vision for Bakehouse’s future: to redevelop the campus, center the community, and build affordable housing.

Anyone interested in making a recurring monthly contribution or one time contribution, please click here or reach out to Courtney at cford@bacfl.org.