Not every parent is supportive of their 5-year-old’s artistic dreams, but Jack-Hyatt London Rosenberg is not just any 5 year old. And Michael and Devora Rosenberg aren’t just any parents. This sweet-natured, creative kid has taken to the world of art like a bird to flight, and the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund couldn’t be more delighted.
If Jack-Hyatt’s name sounds familiar, it’s because the charity first met him last fall when the artist-to-be donated all $360 of his personal savings to Widows & Orphans. “I explained to Jack-Hyatt that once he donated the money, he couldn’t get it back,” Devora remembers. “He said to me: Mommy, we have a lot and I could always earn more money.”
That’s just one example of the generosity, maturity and love that Jack-Hyatt shares with his family, friends and the firefighting community. Today, he continues to look for ways to share even more.
Thanks to his kindergarten teacher, the young Jack-Hyatt has developed a passion for expressing himself on the painted canvas. Once he began painting, he decided to try selling his art to raise money for his favorite charity.
“Jack-Hyatt realizes that we’re lucky his dad can spend time with his family,” shares Devora. “So when he learned that some firefighters can’t spend holidays with their families, he wanted to do something.” To encourage their son’s understanding of tzedakah (the Jewish concept of giving without receiving), Devora and Michael set up the Art For Charity Facebook page for Jack-Hyatt’s cause.
Jack-Hyatt’s artwork is for charity, but don’t let his age fool you into thinking his paintings are meant for your refrigerator. Devora assures us that her son takes his art very seriously: “He likes abstract art, but he’s trying to do different art mediums now. Like Picasso’s style.”
And buyers are recognizing his talent. Jack-Hyatt sold his first commissioned painting on July 5th and more orders are on the way. The Rosenberg family hopes that the Facebook page will draw attention for Jack-Hyatt to sell enough art to exceed his charitable donation last year. “It’s his idea. He came to the idea in a very organic way,” his mother continues. “His dad and I buy the art supplies and canvas. I wash the brushes, but I don’t help him paint at all. He shoos me away if I try to help.”
All the money from the art sales goes to the Widows & Orphans charity and Jack-Hyatt couldn’t be happier. “If we see them [firefighters] at the grocery store or
Weiler’s Deli, he always has to go over and say hi!” says Devora with unmistakable pride in her voice. “He loves these firefighters. He just loves them!”
To learn more about Jack-Hyatt London Rosenberg’s artwork, please visit Art For Charity at facebook.com/ArtForCharityByJackHyatt.
By Candace Nicholson