Celebrating Creativity: GrantLOVE and J Vineyards Unveil LOVE Wine to Support Women Artists

When visual artist Alexandra Grant founded grantLOVE in 2008, her mission was to provide essential support for artists often overlooked in American culture. By offering materials, production funding, and stipends, she has been able to empower creators to continue their work. After trademarking her LOVE symbol in 2012, she expanded her reach through a variety of products, with proceeds funneled back into the grantLOVE program. Collaborating with the Pledgeling Foundation, the initiative aims for transparency and broader impact.

The latest endeavor, LOVE Wine, emerges from a partnership between grantLOVE and J Vineyards & Winery, focusing on uplifting emerging women artists. Grant sought a women-led vineyard that shared her vision of supporting creativity, which led her to Nicole Hitchcock, the Estate Director and Head Winemaker at J Vineyards. Recognized as one of the leading winemakers in the United States, Hitchcock has created sparkling wines that rival the best from Champagne. Together, they crafted LOVE Wine, with each new label designed by a woman-identified artist.

The label for their first release—a brut cuvée selected by Hitchcock and Grant—was created by Genevieve Gaignard, a multidisciplinary artist whose work addresses themes of race, class, and culture. This collaboration serves to integrate the enjoyment of wine with a larger narrative of art and creativity, fostering community around shared values especially at a time when many women artists face significant challenges.

In a conversation with Grant, she shared the organic evolution of this project, emphasizing the importance of timing and the alignment of shared values in both art and wine. Grant had previously received offers for wine collaborations but felt they lacked the right resonance. Now, with LOVE Wine, she reflects on the moment: “what am I tasting, what am I smelling, what am I feeling?” This initiative aims to ground participants in the present and cultivate joy amidst chaos.

Available for purchase at J Vineyards’ tasting room in Healdsburg, California, and online, LOVE Wine ($50) dedicates one-third of its profits to supporting women in the arts.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!