From Loss to Legacy: A Mother’s Triumph Over Gun Violence Through Creativity and Community
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Angelica Callanta Honors Her Son’s Legacy With the Launch of the David Amarri Foundation
CHICAGO, IL – On Sunday, October 5, 2025, what could have been a day marked only by grief on the one-year anniversary of her son’s passing will instead become a beacon of purpose and creativity. Angelica Callanta will host A Day for David, a benefit event to launch the David Amarri Foundation, honoring her son, whose life was tragically cut short by gun violence while courageously stepping in to defend a woman, a reflection of the empathy, integrity, and sense of responsibility that defined him. David was raised not only by his parents but also by a community of creatives and entrepreneurs who nurtured his talents, inspiring an amazing and productive youth. He dreamt of building his own agency, fostering a community of artists, designers, and creatives alike. The foundation will carry forward that vision by supporting emerging artists of color through micro-grants, artist residencies, and access to vital creative materials, embodying the values of courage, community, and care that David lived by.
The day begins with a public art exhibition in partnership with Recycled Modern and concludes with a private dinner and Sunday Browsing, a signature experience presented by Arte Haus Studios.
“Though his life was taken by gun violence, I do not want this day to be defined by that loss,” says Angelica Callanta. “I want to reclaim it as a day of purpose and a day for creating the future David dreamed of. It is not about erasing pain but refusing to waste it.”
The Amarri Club Exhibition (Public Event)
The celebration opens with The Amarri Club Exhibition, a showcase of works by artists Anthony Bartley and Jordan Stewart, and a special auction piece by Charles Jean Pierre hosted at Recycled Modern in Hyde Park’s Harper Court area, a place where a supportive community of artists and mentors helped shape David’s creative growth. These works will be available for bidding, with proceeds directly supporting the creation of the foundation.
- When: Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Where: Recycled Modern, 5231 S. Harper Court, Hyde Park
From Arte Haus to Yours Dinner & Sunday Browsing (Private Event)
A Day for David continues with a special installment of Arte Haus Studios’ curated dinner series, “From Arte Haus to Yours”, hosted at Soho House’s private club. Built on the premise that what makes a “Haus a Home” is the community within, this dinner is dedicated to the loving memory of King, a valued mentee and colleague of Arte Haus Studios, and serves as a stand against violence. Following the dinner, guests are invited to the intimate, guest-list-only Sunday Browsing, the monthly series that fuses art and vinyl records. With a vintage record player and a curated art wall setting the mood, attendees are encouraged to bring their favorite records, connect with fellow creatives, and engage in conversation. This evening embodies David’s vision of a creative community where ideas, connections, and dreams flourish, while turning support and well-wishes into tangible impact.
How to Get Involved
- Donate: Contributions help launch the David Amarri Foundation and support its programs. Give directly at https://givebutter.com/DavidAmarri
- Attend & Bid: Visit The Amarri Club Exhibition on October 5 to view the art and bid on featured works RSVP here
- Join the Guest List: For Sunday Browsing, email info@artehausstudios.com
About the David Amarri Foundation
The David Amarri Foundation was established to honor and uphold David’s vision of a connected, supportive creative community. Built on the belief that emerging artists thrive when given both opportunity and mentorship, the foundation provides resources, guidance, and platforms for artists of color to grow, collaborate, and share their work.
By fostering access to artistic tools, spaces, and networks, the foundation not only helps artists pursue their creative goals but also continues the kind of collaboration, innovation, and community-building that defined David’s life. Each program and initiative reflects his enduring commitment to turning creativity into meaningful impact, carrying forward his vision now that he is no longer here.
Media Contact:
Shari Currie
312-217-1790
