I know you’re tired of being reminded of the fires but…

Yes, it’s another fundraising organization for the victims of the Southern California wildfires, but the posters for sale in the So-Cal Poster Project are actually pretty sweet. All of the work was donated by artists and designers from across the world, and 100 percent of the money raised goes directly to folks who lost their homes.

I especially dig Frank Chimero’s “Hope Spreads” piece (pictured to the right), and was surprisingly disappointed by Paul Frank’s poster, which is by far the most expensive one of the bunch.

Anyhow, the full news release follows:

NEWS RELEASE

 

Hope, Beauty Rise from the Ashes with So-Cal Wildfire Poster Project

Prominent Artists Design Limited Edition Posters for Salvation Army Relief Fund

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(San Diego, Jan. 21, 2008): Last fall, after fierce wildfires caused the largest evacuation in California history and left over 2,000 people without a home, one local artist was inspired to combat the gruesome devastation with the healing power of art. Graphic designer Josh Higgins has unveiled the So-Cal Fire Poster Project, in which he used his “burning love” of art to bring hope to fire victims.? Dozens of prominent artists from around the globe have joined in the effort, contributing original art designs inspired by those fires to raise much needed funds for those whose homes once stood in its mighty path.?

Today, more than 20 beautiful and meaningful poster designs have been created and are now available for purchase online, with new pieces constantly being added to the collection. All proceeds directly benefit the Salvation Army’s 2007 California Wildfire Fund.

The posters are designed and donated by distinguished artists locally and internationally. Some of the notable artists for the Fire Poster Project include Paul Frank, Michael Osborne, Modern Dog, Luba Lukova, Hatch Print Show and Shepard Fairey.

The project is modeled after the Hurricane Poster Project, which to date has successfully raised over $60,000 in support of the 2005 Hurricane Katrina victims. Higgins was originally involved with the Hurricane Poster Project as one of the contributing artists. When the wildfires hit Southern California, he considered the So-Cal Fire Poster Project to be the best way to apply his talent and experience to support the tragedy that hit so close to home.?

“One doesn’t have to work on the front lines to make a difference,” Higgins said. “Helping those in need is often as simple as doing something you love. For me, that is art. This project allows artists to express their sentiments regarding the wildfires and create works that will directly help fire victims. Best of all, we are all sharing lasting works of art that symbolize hope and renewal.”

Donations made to the Salvation Army’s 2007 California Wildfire Fund will be used exclusively to assist victims recovering from the devastating process of evacuation, loss of personal treasures, homes and jobs.

For more information or to view the current poster collection, visit www.reliefposters.com <http://www.reliefposters.com/> .