On the one hand, good on Nelson Saiers, the New Jersey hedge fund manager who says he’ll donate $100,000 to victims of Hurricane Sandy if Banksy paints a piece (on a legal wall) that raises awareness about the storm.
From HeyBanksy.com, where Saiers is attempting to reach out to the artist:
Hey Banksy,
The rumor is that you are in New York City for the month of October. As we approach the one year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy, there remain a number of victims who are still severely impacted by this disaster. If you are willing to use your art to raise awareness for those still affected by Sandy, then I will gladly join you in supporting those still struggling by donating $100,000 to a relevant charity.
Cheers,
Nelson Saiers
On the other hand, making your donation contingent on Banksy is only keeping money from people who need it (not to mention netting yourself some pretty good publicity). An “awareness-raising” mural about the storm might be good for the victims, but it can’t possibly be as good as money. So if you want to give money, just give money.
