Artists at Hope
Meena Khalili Clifford
Meena is an artist and designer residing in Richmond, VA alongside her radio-guru husband, Michael and their dog, Cash. Meena is of both American and Iranian descent and is most interested in expressing notions of culture in her work. Two of her favorite things are strong coffee and vespa scooters. Visit Meena’s site & blog.
Chad Ebel
Chad sings lead vocals and plays guitar and bouzouki for The Florentines. The music is described as folkish, kinda classical, with bits of rock and some twang.
Jesse Isenberg
Jesse is a musician, designer, and maker of things. As a musician, he has played with The Florentines, Luke Saunders, and Louisiana Territory. His company, Stinson, created the beautiful backdrop that is the trademark setpiece for Richmond’s The Listening Room.
Matt Klimas
Matt is a freelance graphic designer and musician. He is half of The Low Branches, and he also sings and plays bass, guitar, and keyboards for Louisiana Territory. Matt’s other music projects include The Snowy Owls and several others. Visit Matt’s website to view some of his design work as well as hear his music.
David Lam
David plays fiddle in the very popular and always eclectic bluegrass band A Good Natured Riot. His talented playing has also been heard on recordings and live with The Florentines and Luke Saunders.
Louisiana Territory
This indie rock trio brings together three songwriters who share a penchant for melody. Started by Mark Brown, Tyler Crowley and Matt Klimas, Louisiana Territory is built on the interplay between their unique musical styles and influences. Blending pop, rock, and a hint of alt-country they craft hook-laden songs with tight layers of guitars and lush harmonies.
Brandon O’Neill
Brandon sings lead vocals and plays guitar and keyboards for Rock/Pop/Happy Hardcore band The Battle of Me.
Chris Payne
Chris is founder of The Richmond Scene, an organization that promotes the inter-connection of all creative types in the Richmond area and helps promote their work to the public at large. He plays keyboard in The Florentines, and has played with other bands including Louisiana Territory.
Luke Saunders
Luke is a songwriter and acoustic/folk-rock musician. He has a love for the arts and a passion for writing. Visit Luke’s site to hear some of his music.
Casey Templeton
Commercial/Advertising photographer Casey Templeton brings a real-life feel to advertising and marketing campaigns around the world. He was named the nation’s College Photographer of the Year while at James Madison University and has interned with National Geographic Magazine.