The Maitland Art and History Museums hosed Participation at the Germaine Marvel Building. A large outdoor event tent was set up on what were formerly shuffleboard courts. Two young female violinists performed with a piano accompaniment. One of Central Florida’s most intriguing fundraising events,
Participation is a feast for your senses. Local artists transform dining
tables into works of art, and guests enjoy dinner with the artist at
these unique creations. The evening includes live performances and
demonstrations, a silent art auction, elegant dining and more. It is an immersive sensory experience that provides patrons the opportunity to learn about the creative process while raising crucial funds to support educational programs at the Museums. Artists are the cornerstone of this event.
Participating artists received a
complimentary dinner, and networking opportunities with Central Florida
collectors and promotion through A&H event marketing Each artist was asked to donate an artwork indicative of their style for the silent auction. All works were valued between $500
and $3000. Starting bids for artwork began at 25% of full value. Artist will provided the A&H with a current resume, bio,
artist statement; digital image of donated artwork and will provide
size, medium and value of work. Tables for the event will seat 8 people and are 60 inches diameter. Artists received an honorarium to put toward supplies.
In sketching the event, I decided to focus on Victor Bokas‘ table. He had a display with lots of poodles, and a small cat that was climbing to the top of the centerpiece. Victor’s work is bright and abstract while also incorporating recognizable elements. The bright palette clearly has a tropical influence.
Whitney Broadaway has a table with an illuminated wire tree as the centerpiece. Individual leaves hung from the limbs from mono filament and the leaves all twirled in the evening breeze. Whitney said she designed and built the tree the night before in a mad rush. A large battery was hidden in the base.
Pam Schwartz joined me at the event and she was nice enough to make sure I had some food and drink. I wasn’t seated at a table but leaned back against a tent pole as I sketches Victor’s table. I usually skip food since my hands are always busy sketching, but this time I juggled tasks. As I sketched the scene grew darker and darker and I spent my time chasing the light as I painted.