You already know about the documentary, so I will keep this personal.

This film exists because I noticed something.

A painting had been found. There was an article about it. People knew it was interesting. But I felt there was a much larger story underneath it.
This is the film page.

If I had not followed that instinct, it may have remained a remarkable article people read once and moved past.

That is the story of my career. I thought Rockford had unique stories, and I have turned that into nationwide reputation. 

I feel a similar instinct with your story.

There are mentions of your success online, but very little of the actual story in your own voice. Facts are not the same as a life.

Maybe part of why this matters to me is our shared Polish heritage. Polish families understand memory. We inherit stories, silences, sacrifices, names, and fragments. Honoring our ancestors means preserving more than what they accomplished. It means preserving who they were.

My ask is $12,500.

That support would help me continue the documentary in Poland.

In return, I would create a legacy portrait for your family.

Two filmed interviews.
A finished short portrait film.
Family photos and archival material woven in.
Additional B-roll if needed.
A 4 foot by 5 foot original painting made specifically from your story.
Credit in the documentary as a supporter of the film.

Your story, told by you.

For your children.
For your grandchildren.
For the people who will someday know your name but not know your voice.

I would be honored to preserve part of that.

I have made other legacy portraits, but they were usually done with people knew their time was limited. This is one done on my friend Alicia.