Like many celebrities from a variety of art branches, Ricky Martin and Eva Longoria joined the Global Gift Foundations as “Global Gifters,” holding Global Gift Galas dedicated to raising funds. This year, all proceeds got directed to a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Puerto Rico’s recovery efforts after being hit by Category 4 Hurricane Maria.
Domingo Zapata, a famous Neo-Expressionist painter, and Grammy-winning artist, Alejandro Sanz, joined forces in creating a painting. Originally intended for a New York exhibition, they caught wind of the Gala’s purpose, and since both were interested in “trying to help as much as we can,” they decided to repurpose one of their paintings to be auctioned at the gala.
It was to everyone’s surprise when both were able to raise $60,000; which excited everyone but especially Ricky Martin, who jumped out of his chair as the final amount was shouted out and ran to thank Domingo.
“Guitars, acrylic, oil, and love. A little more than just art… a collaboration to help others in need while creating and having a great time,” was what Zapata captioned an Instagram picture of him and Alejandro working on the auctioned art piece.
It has only been over two months since Hurricane Maria devastated the U.S. Caribbean island, leaving a trail of destruction behind. With winds of 155 MPH, it became the most significant hurricane to ever hit the territory in recorded history since the San Felipe hurricane of 1928.
Every house ended up blacked out and severely damaged, all communication lines collapsed, trees got ripped from the ground, and widespread flooding afflicted everyone, particularly in San Juan, the capital, where most streets would end up looking like rivers. Thanks to Sanz, Zapata, Ricky, and Longoria, some help is being sent their way.
This article was inspired by LATIN TIMES // Ricky Martin Reacts To Alejandro Sanz, Domingo Zapata Painting Auctioned For 60K For Puerto Rico