Set against the elegant backdrop of Valparaiso University's Christopher Center, this year's ARTability Art Show and Sale radiated warmth and vibrancy that was no match for Friday's thunderstorms. Over 300 attendees braved the stormy weather to support the artists of Opportunity Enterprises, raising over $30,000 to benefit OE's Art Enrichment Program and provide client artists with a commission for each piece sold!
93 canvas and painted pieces adorned walls in the Christopher Center’s Community Room, with an additional 200 ceramic pieces. Artists, their family and friends, University students, staff, and faculty, and community members enjoyed a festive evening with live music, desserts, and the opportunity to bid on the art. And bid they did. There was a flurry of bidding activity up the last moment as guests clamored for their favorite pieces.
Three artists received special awards: Artist Nick K. won the People’s Choice Award, presented by Urschel Laboratories, for his piece Van Gogh Flowers; Kathy O. was awarded the Judges’ Choice Award, presented by M.E. Simpson Co., Inc, for her piece Lady of Mystery; and Max D. garnered the Instructors’ Choice Award for his pice Cigar and Cognac.
Judges for the event included local artists Jena Burris, Donna Catalano, Hannah Hammond-Hagman, Sarah Jantzi, Aimee Tomasek, and Melissa Washburn. Co-founder of Community Supported Art (CSA) Valpo Melissa Washburn said, “It was spectacular, to see the variety in skill, creativity, and style. The stories accompanying each piece let me into each artist's mind and heart, sharing a part of who they are and what brings them joy. I loved reading them."
Artability was made possible by the generous support of Urschel, M.E. Simpson, South Shore Arts, Indiana Arts Commission, Ozinga, Stan’s Painting and Decorating, Michigan City Paper Box Company, Valparaiso University, Jan & Cindy Hunter, Larson Danielson, Berkshire Hathaway, Century 21 Alliance Group, Laciak CPA, Design Desserts, and Aberdeen Manor.
To see photos from the event, please visit the OE Facebook page at www.facebook.com/oppent.