BY JAN SWOOPE
“Moonlight and Magnolias” is the theme of the Columbus Arts Council’s gala June 2 at the Rosenzweig Arts Center in downtown Columbus.
With trips to Colorado and Smith Lake, and two to Florida, up for bid in a limted live auction, plus dozens of pieces of artwork, decor, accessories and gift certificates available in a silent auction, many in attendance will go home with a special remembrance of the evening.
“I just think the gala is a wonderful event,” said CAC board member Jackie Exum. “It brings together people who enjoy the arts, to have fun, good food and drink in a fantastic celebration.”
A Mississippi-inspired menu will include regional favorites.
“Mississippi is the heart of the Deep South, and what could be more Southern than cheese straws, pecans, grits, catfish and pork?” said Anne Freeze, who chairs the food committee. “We’ll have some of each of these and more on tables on gala night.” In addition to original work by area artists, the silent auction from 7-8 p.m. will include items as diverse as golfing and golf bag and memberships to fitness facilities, to gift baskets, Peter’s Pottery, lamps, garden art, limo rides and numerous certificates for food, flowers and more.
Joyce Hunt, acquisitions chair for the silent auction, remarked, “We are so grateful to all those people who have said, ‘Yes, we will,’ when asked to support us by donating an auction item. We’re hearing it time and time again. It really shows how this community supports the arts council’s diverse programs that reach out to all ages.”
In addition to trips, the brief live auction includes a signed and numbered original by artist Penny Nichols and an original watercolor by Melissa Smith.
The CAC will also honor a volunteer, patron and corporate partner of the year during the evening.
“That makes this an even more special event,” said Exum.
While festive, the gala has a critical underlying purpose that impacts the vibrancy of arts in Columbus and surrounding areas year-round.
“This is more than a party — it’s a major way the arts council continues the gallery shows, concerts, workshops, classes, Young Peoples Artists Series, Kindermusik, lectures, camps and all the other things we feel the community deserves,” stated Bruce Hufford, who volunteers as treasurer on the nonprofit organization’s board. “It’s only possible with the community’s support.”
How to go
Tickets to the cocktail-attire gala are $50 per person and include hors d’oevres, open bar and live music by David Reese. Purchase tickets at the Rosenzweig Arts Center, 501 Main St., or call 662-328-2787. The event begins at 7 p.m., with a one-hour silent auction.
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
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