Makayla Binter & Craig Stevens - Awards for Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grants Program
Completed January 2025
Following the previous awards project that we managed for them, the Lowe’s Foundation has partnered with ArtPop's Inspiration Projects division for another custom awards commission! This latest project involved the creation of eleven commemorative awards to be given to the Community and Technical Colleges whose skilled trades workforce development programs are being supported through Lowe’s Foundation’s Gable Grants program.
Two local artists were hired to make this dream a reality: creative catalyst Makayla Binter and multi-talented maker Craig Stevens, who crafted a set of miniature Lowe’s Vests painted and framed in the style of sports jersey memorabilia!
Makayla Binter Hand-Paints the Miniature Lowe’s Vests
To provide something unique to each grantee, Makayla hand-painted miniature Lowe’s red vests in her signature street art-inspired style. Makayla incorporated each school’s emblem as a design basis, and also included references to skilled trades work such as hands holding tools and saw blades.
The Vests Are Elevated With Hand-Built Frames by Craig Stevens
Once painted, the vests were passed on to Craig, who crafted custom hand-built frames to elevate their presentation. Inspired by the way sports jerseys are framed as memorabilia, Craig’s frames protect and present each vest in a way that each recipient can display them proudly on their walls.
Each Award is Hand-Delivered to the Recipients
With the vests painted and framed, the Lowe’s Foundation team travelled to personally present each of the completed awards to their Gable Grants awardees. The program has granted nearly $8 million in grants to support skilled trades workforce development initiatives.
To celebrate the start of this project, Lowe’s Foundation ArtPop and the commissioned artists to join them at their Advocate Luncheon on October 15th, 2024. This event celebrated Careers in Construction Month alongside three Gable Grants recipient schools: Midlands Technical College, Wilkes Community College, and campus host Central Piedmont Community College. While there, we had the pleasure of seeing these three schools be presented with their awards in-person!
Client Feedback:
“ArtPop has been an invaluable creative partner to the Lowe’s Foundation, bringing artistry and meaning to our Gabe Grants program. Their dedication to crafting unique, one-of-a-kind pieces has beautifully commemorated our investment and partnerships, leaving a lasting impact on our recipients.
Over the past two years, we have collaborated on three Inspiration Projects, each showcasing ArtPop’s commitment to excellence, creativity, and storytelling through art. Their ability to translate our mission into visually compelling and meaningful works has made them a trusted collaborator. As the Lowe’s Foundation grants ecosystem continues to grow, we look forward to continuing this partnership and creating more inspiring awards together.”
