a social-art project within the M.C. Richards Program

“If my Mother had four wheels and a drive shaft she would be a touring bus.” -Rudolf Steiner

Art allows us to entertain things that are “not real”, and this opportunity can inspire us to see conventions in new light. This was the idea of the Current of Goodwill, a social-art project of students from the M.C. Richards Program cohort 2020-21 and the Hudson Valley Current, that is now complete. It was not intended as a project that would demonstrate a shovel ready alternative to conventional money systems, but as a creative act that could allow new experiences and insights on money and economic exchange. In the process hundreds of moments were created when a currency evoked an act of thanks, learning about the Hudson Valley Current and Free Columbia. Through this project a group of students were introduced to monetary orientations inspired by Rudolf Steiner, in the context of Marx, Friedman and Raworth, among others. Each completed card, or unit of 50 HVCs, was ultimately directed as a grant to individuals and initiatives dedicated to the common good.

100 cards, each worth 50 HVCs (equivalent of 50 USD), were created. Assembled together they created a picture of interdependence, giving and receiving.

In order for them to be redeemed as a grant to a local organization each card had to make a journey, which involved passing between five people and being returned by mail. Of the 100 cards that went out, 25 made the return journey. 1,250 Hudson Valley Currents were dispersed according to the choices indicated on the cards. In September of 2021 the grants were awarded.

450 was earmarked for “Arts and Education” and awarded to THE ART AFFECT

250 was earmarked for “Addiction Recovery” and awarded to SIMADHI

250 was earmarked for “First Responders” and awarded to THE PHILMONT FIRE COMPANY

150 was earmarked for “Community Centers” and awarded to TILDAS AND THE HVC

150 was earmarked for “Food Pantries” and awarded to SEASON DELICIOUS