Things We Lost In The Fire Sponsor Proposal

Things We Lost In The Fire

Fire may consume, but it also clears the way for NEW BEGINNINGS. Like a BURNING HEART, it transforms, ignites, and gives life to something GREATER THAN BEFORE.

Sponsorship Proposal

Project Summary:

Things We Lost In The Fire documents the humanity of the individuals and families affected by the devastating fires in the Pacific Palisades and Malibu areas. Through a blend of photography and poignant personal quotes from survivors, this project highlights the trauma, resilience, and strength of these communities, culminating in a photography book and photographic exhibition designed to raise funds, awareness, and inspire hope for rebuilding.

As the world turned its attention to the California wildfires in January 2025, this initiative serves as an artistic platform to focus on our shared humanity, connecting us through the discovery of the things we as people truly value most, those precious aspects of life that become even more apparent in times of trauma and loss.

Statement of Need:

The fires in Malibu and the Pacific Palisades left lasting scars on the local community, both physically and emotionally. Thousands of homes and structures were destroyed, families were displaced, and the trauma of the fires continues to affect the lives of many residents. This project provides a platform for their stories, honoring the people who have been impacted while offering a message of hope, and opportunity to raise funds and awareness for relief.

Project Goals:

To document the human experiences of fire victims through photography and real life quotations.
To create a photography book that will serve as a historical record of the event and its aftermath.
To host a photographic exhibition that will highlight the resilience of the affected communities and raise funds for recovery efforts.
To foster a greater sense of solidarity and hope through the visual representation of these experiences.

Key Objectives:

Photography Documentation: Capture intimate, raw images of the people, homes, landmarks and landscapes affected by the fire, emphasizing resilience and recovery after the devastation.
Incorporate Inspirational Quotes: Pairing the photographs with moving, powerful, and uplifting quotes that reflect the resilience of the human spirit, from the survivors themselves or from thought leaders and public figures known for their messages of hope and strength.
Create a Fine Art Photography Book: The book will be a visual and literary journey, offering a blend of narrative and imagery that encapsulates the trauma, recovery, and resilience of the community.
Exhibition and Prints: Curate an exhibition of the prints, showcasing the power of art to reflect devastation and inspire rebuilding and recovery.
Raise Awareness and Funds: Use the photo book sales and exhibition print sales to raise awareness and funds for ongoing recovery efforts in the community. 80% of net proceeds will be donated to:
The Recording Academy and MusiCares Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort (40%)
The California Community Foundation: Wildfire Recovery Fund (40%)
Investor Recoupment (10%)
Operational Costs (10%)

Target Audience:

The primary audience for this project includes residents of the Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and the greater Los Angeles area. Additionally, the exhibition and book will be targeted at those interested in documentary photography through an artistic lens, disaster recovery, and community resilience. Through outreach and media attention, we hope to also engage a national audience in the conversation about climate change, disaster preparedness, and community rebuilding.

Charitable Beneficiaries:

The California Community Foundation: Wildfire Recovery Fund

As climate change intensifies, wildfires are becoming more frequent and destructive. CCF’s Wildfire Recovery Fund addresses the long-term impacts of these disasters by:

Rebuilding homes and restoring livelihoods for those most affected.
Providing mental health support, case management, and financial aid.
Strengthening infrastructure to improve emergency response systems and equip first responders with modern tools.

This fund not only aids recovery but also fortifies communities against future climate-driven disasters.

The California Community Foundation (CCF) is a 501(c)(3) organization.

https://www.calfund.org/funds/wildfire-recovery-fund/

The Recording Academy and MusiCares Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort

Just days after the devastation began to unfold from the wildfires in greater Los Angeles, the Recording Academy and MusiCares launched a fire relief effort to help the thousands of music professionals impacted by the crisis.

MusiCares is currently distributing a first round of emergency financial assistance to those displaced and anticipate at least two more rounds of disaster relief work as the full scale of the loss is revealed. The effort provides short-term and long-term support, including financial assistance, mental health resources, and relocation assistance.

For more than three decades, MusiCares has been a steadfast partner to the music industry during times of need, offering relief in response to a variety of disasters. From the Las Vegas Route 91 shooting and the COVID-19 pandemic to Superstorm Sandy, Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Helene, the California and Maui wildfires. MusiCares is here to help—no matter the size or scope of the crisis.

MusiCares is a 501(c)(3) organization.

https://donor.musicares.org/page/lafirerelief

Biography: Los Angeles Based Fine Art Photographer Mark Maryanovich:

Award-winning photographer Mark Maryanovich has captured an impressive variety of artists including Chris Cornell, Billy F Gibbons, Bob Rock, Chad Kroeger, Elliott Smith and Henry Rollins. His photographs appear as album covers and artwork for companies such as Sony, Universal, EMI, Warner Chappell Music, and Mark has been nominated four times, and received two Canadian Country Music Awards for Recording Package of the Year.

Mark’s commercial Clients include Gibson Guitars and Peavey Electronics, and his work has been published in Rolling Stone and Billboard magazines. Mark has the honor of providing the author photo for Model Woman: Eileen Ford and the Business of Beauty by Robert Lacey (best-selling biographer and historical consultant on the award-winning Netflix series The Crown), and book cover Images for the legendary Randy Bachman’s autobiography Vinyl Tap Stories, and Matt Sorum’s autobiography Double Talkin' Jive: True Rock 'N' Roll Stories from the Drummer of Guns N' Roses, The Cult and Velvet Revolver.

Mark has been recognized by the prestigious Photo Review magazine competition with his selection as a prominent entry, and by the California art community, with his placement as a finalist in the Images From A Glass Eye International Juried Photography Show, and honorable mention in the American Icon Art Competition. Because of his work in this genre, the esteemed Annenberg Space for Photography selected Mark to be part of their slideshow exhibition Country: Portraits of an American Sound, which celebrates the pioneers, poets and icons of country music.

Mark’s images stand out from the masses with a unique quality, a quality created by a unique style of shooting; an experience that captures the raw essence and beauty of his subjects.

Recently, Mark co-wrote Photography Business Basics: Professional Fundamentals in 10 Short Chapters with his manager Natasha Martinez. Published by Business Expert Press, Photography Business Basics is available in libraries across the US, and has been added to the recommended reading lists, libraries and course materials of several schools including The New York Film Academy.

Currently, Mark is excited to be working on The ART of GIVING with Co~Creator Matt Sorum. Purely a project fueled by passion, The ART of GIVING exists to create awareness for the charitable causes championed by the world's most iconic artists.

“Not only is Mark Maryanovich one of the world’s premier photographers, he’s also compassionate and donates his time and talent to assist worthy causes.”
Pepper Gomez, CEO and Founder
Wake Up! Music Group

Timeline:

Phase 1: Research & Planning (1 month)

Study the aftermath and impact of the Palisades/Malibu Fire in depth, including reaching out to local organizations, community leaders, and fire survivors to build relationships and ensure access to those willing to share their stories.
Identify key locations for photographs (both the aftermath of the fire and ongoing rebuilding efforts).
Establish partnerships with local nonprofits or rebuilding organizations and community leaders to ensure the project is impactful, well-received and that the funds raised from the project are directed to the right causes.
Connecting with exhibition venues, and planning the logistics for hosting the show.

Phase 2: Photography & Interviews (2–3 months)

On-location photography: Mark Maryanovich will travel to Malibu and Palisades photographing survivors, their properties, and the surrounding areas. Capturing both personal moments of resilience and environmental shots (e.g., homes, landscapes, landmarks, rebuilding sites).
Capture both the visible (homes burned, rebuilding efforts) and invisible (emotional struggles, hope for the future) aspects of the experience through photographs, emphasizing human connection and moments of solidarity.
Collect powerful, meaningful and heartfelt quotes directly from the survivors or pair images with quotes from thought leaders or inspiring figures.

Phase 3: Editing, Curation & Book Design (1–2 months)

Photo selection: Mark Maryanovich will review the photographs and select the most impactful images that tell a cohesive story of recovery and resilience.
Incorporating quotes: Select and pair inspiring quotes with the images. These could come from the survivors or public figures known for their messages of hope, strength, and resilience that fit the tone and message of the project.
Book design: Mark Maryanovich will design and create a compelling layout that highlights both the visuals and the quotes work together harmoniously. Ensure that the flow of the book takes the reader on a journey through the devastation and recovery.

Phase 4: Printing & Exhibition Planning (1–2 months)

Book production: Finalize the design of the book and send it to print. Ensure high-quality paper and printing techniques are used to do justice to Mark’s photography.
Exhibition preparation: Print large-format images for the show. Decide on framing, mounting, and logistics for the exhibition space.
Event coordination: Begin researching venues for the exhibition—galleries or open-air venues in Malibu or Palisades. Consider hosting a charity auction for the prints to raise additional funds for rebuilding efforts.

Phase 5: Exhibition & Book Release (1 month)

Exhibition opening: Host an opening night for the exhibition with a guided tour, explaining the project’s mission, the significance of the work, and the recovery efforts.
Book release: Release the book at the exhibition. Offer signed copies by Mark Maryanovich, and make the book available for purchase online and at the event.
Fundraising: Promote the sale of the book and exhibition prints, with 80% of net proceeds donated to local relief efforts and rebuilding initiatives.

Potential Exhibition Venues:

Soho House Little Beach House Malibu
Proper Hotels & Residences Malibu Beach House
The GRAMMY Museum Los Angeles
Art Galleries supported by the Malibu Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce

Production Budget Estimate: Phase 1 to 3: $10,000

1. Photography Costs:

Travel cost and vehicle rentals.
Equipment rental (if necessary).
Printing costs for a high-quality print as an example of exhibition materials.

2. Book Production:

Design and layout fees.

3. Administrative Work:

Coordinate with local organizations, community leaders, and fire survivors to ensure access for photography sessions.
Book printing and exhibition funding proposal drafts.
Coordinating with funding organizations.

Book Printing and Exhibition Budget Estimate: Phase 4 and 5: $36,212

1. Book Production:

Printing costs for 10 hardcover books (with exemplary printing, binding and paper quality).

2. Exhibition Costs:

Venue rental and insurance.
Print production (16 large-format prints, framed, transport).
Event expenses (invitation design and promotional materials).

3. Marketing & Outreach:

Social media promotions and outreach (ads, influencer partnerships).
Press releases and local media engagement.

4. Fundraising/Donation Portion:

Coordinate with local organizations and community leaders to ensure funds raised from the project are directed to the right causes.

Preliminary Itemized Printing and Exhibition Budget

Evaluation and Impact:

Success will be measured by the following metrics:

Funds raised for recovery: Measure the total funds raised from the sale of books and prints
Donations raised for rebuilding efforts (direct donations at the exhibition, via the project’s webpage, etc.).
Audience engagement during the exhibition (attendance numbers, feedback surveys).

Overall audience engagement: Monitor social media and press coverage for audience reactions and overall reach of the project (mentions, shares, and media stories).

Additional Considerations:

Emotional Sensitivity: Given the trauma involved, it’s essential that this project is approached with sensitivity and care. Making sure survivors feel empowered to share their stories and feel comfortable with how they are portrayed, which is the cornerstone of Mark’s success in his over 25 year career as a fine art portrait photographer.
Support for Survivors: This project will include a component of emotional support for survivors (e.g., connecting them with local resources).

Sponsorship Opportunities:

Things We Lost In The Fire offers a unique opportunity for sponsors to be an integral part of a project that touches hearts, fosters community, and inspires positive change. This initiative will connect your brand with the stories of real people overcoming extraordinary challenges, providing your company with a platform to demonstrate corporate social responsibility, compassion, and commitment to supporting those in need.

Sponsorship Benefits:

1. Brand Visibility:

Photography Book and Exhibition: Your brand will be prominently featured on promotional materials for both the photography book and exhibition, ensuring your logo reaches a wide audience of art lovers, community members, and supporters of recovery and rebuilding.
Social Media and Press: Sponsors will be acknowledged in all social media campaigns, press releases, and online features, extending your brand’s reach to thousands of engaged individuals, including those passionate about supporting communities affected by disaster.
Event Branding: At the exhibition opening, your company’s logo will be displayed prominently on event signage, on the exhibition’s photo backdrop, and in any event-related press coverage. This offers an opportunity for recognition during a highly anticipated event with press and attendees.

2. Emotional and Community Impact:

Connection to a Cause: By sponsoring this project, your company aligns itself with a message of hope, resilience, and rebuilding. Your brand will be seen as a champion of the communities affected by the wildfires, providing direct support to individuals who have experienced tremendous loss.
Supporting Long-Term Recovery: Your sponsorship funds will directly support the continued recovery efforts for the communities impacted by the fires. This meaningful involvement will demonstrate your commitment to community rebuilding and the well-being of others.

3. Meaningful Public Relations:

As a sponsor, your company will receive exposure through a powerful PR campaign that showcases your support of this critical cause. We will work with you to highlight your company’s involvement through local and national press, interviews, and features in key outlets to ensure maximum visibility and positive association with the project.

Funding Request:

We understand the unique needs of our potential sponsors and are committed to offering custom sponsorship levels that align with your brand's goals and priorities.

We recognize that some organizations may benefit from the exclusive visibility that comes with being a sole sponsor, which includes prominent logo placement, extensive PR, press coverage, and social media mentions across various platforms.

At the same time, we acknowledge that the scope and impact of this project may call for collective support, and we welcome the opportunity for co-sponsorships. Co-sponsors will share media coverage, press mentions, and logo placements, allowing multiple brands to unite in support of this meaningful initiative while still receiving significant exposure.

We kindly ask that you consider partnering with Things We Lost in the Fire to help us amplify the voices of those impacted by the wildfires and raise awareness for their ongoing recovery. Your support will help us provide critical resources to rebuild these communities, and we are happy to work with you to develop a tailored sponsorship level that best meets your company’s needs and objectives.

Why Sponsor?

Becoming a sponsor of Things We Lost in the Fire not only positions your company as a supporter of art and culture, but also as a key player in helping to rebuild a community devastated by tragedy. This project provides a chance for your brand to stand alongside stories of resilience, strength, and hope, creating a lasting impression on the audience.

By supporting this meaningful and emotional journey, you not only contribute to the healing process but also gain valuable visibility across various media platforms, ensuring your brand is remembered as an advocate for recovery and compassion.

Conclusion:

This project presents a vital opportunity to document and share the personal stories of those who have experienced loss, while also celebrating the strength and resilience of these communities. With your support, we can create a book and exhibition that not only honors those affected by the fires but also delivers a powerful message of hope and renewal.

By showcasing the aftermath of the disaster alongside the enduring humanity of those affected, we aim to create a tribute that unites us in common values. It will stand as a testament to both the strength of the people and the possibility of rebuilding a brighter, stronger future.

More than a documentation of loss, this initiative is a symbol of resilience and hope, emphasizing the power of community as we work to rebuild from the…