Armed with the challenge of finding new ways to meet the needs of youth programming and continued service to the community, employees at The Place have found a way to keep things interesting that combines the youthful creativity, education and a good time for adults looking for something a little different.
The Place will be hosting a Cocktail Fundraiser on April 26 at the Uncorked Café and Lounge located at 28 South Broad St., featuring a silent auction of art work designed and created exclusively by children and teens of The Place.
“Our children and teens have been working with local artist Jill Kraft to create some Jackson Pollock – best known for his splatter-paint creations – inspired artwork,” said Sands. “We're working together with the owners of Uncorked Café in a joint effort to raise funds for programming here at The Place and draw some attention to the unveiling of some new changes that have taken place at the café.”
Jackson Pollock was an influential American painter and a major figure in the abstract expressionist movement. He was well known for his unique style of drip painting. In his prime, Pollock enjoyed much fame and notoriety as a major artist of his generation.
The cocktail party will feature a silent auction, hors d 'oeuvres, 50/50 raffle and a cash bar featuring a special on a variety signature cocktails with a percentage of proceeds going to The Place.
Throughout the month of April, art work created by the youths at The Place will be displayed along the walls of Uncorked for viewing.
The objective of The Grand Cocktail Party, which starts at 7 p.m., is to wrap up the gallery viewing of the art work created by the children, which will be included in the silent auction. Entertainment for the event will be provided by local folk duo Mark (Sands) and Matt (Maholchic).
Those yearning for a little more excitement after the art auction are encouraged to stick around for the after-party beginning at 10 p.m., continuing until close. Local performing artists Jes Sheldon and Mike Davis are set to entertain a host of original and cover tunes into the evening.
Ticket prices will $35 for the evening, which includes admission to the after party, a 50/50 raffle ticket, and hors d'oeuvres. After party-only tickets are also available for $10.
The Place currently collecting silent auction items for "art" themed baskets. If you have an item that you would like to donate, please contact Rebecca Sands - execdirector@theplacenorwich.com.
Said Sands, “This is something that is very unique and new, we've never done anything like this before.” She added, “I'm confident that the community will come out and enjoy an evening of youthful inspiration, art and entertainment while supporting both programming for The Place as well as promoting local business in the process.”
“Donations and proceeds raised at the fundraiser event will allow us to continue to provide successful programs for the children and teens that parents within our community have come to rely on,” said Sands.