The 17th annual Art in the Round, presented by Tiger Title Sponsor Scientific Plant Service and co-chaired by Laura Ward and Jennifer Brandenburg, lived up to its theme of GO WILD! The 425 guests in attendance roared as the live and silent auction bids climbed higher and higher. Altogether, the event netted $86,000 for The Arc Baltimore’s mission.
The event, emceed by our Executive Director Kathleen Durkin and Board President Joe Ward, showcased 82 pieces of art created by over 60 talented artists with disabilities, many of whom were in attendance to proudly discuss their pieces with guests.
Special guests Maryland’s First Lady Yumi Hogan and Secretary of Disabilities Carol Beatty were in attendance and took time appreciating the artwork and making personal connections with all of the artists.
Last year’s promotional poster winner Robert Jefferson helped deliver the $100 check to this year’s winner Maria Rosner for her piece, Maryland Blues. In addition, Crystal Wagner was recognized at the event for her piece “The Forest” that received the most votes for our People’s Choice Poll prior to the event.
MICA graduate interns led an art project that provided an opportunity for our guests to create their own artwork.
As part of the live auction along with three other pieces, Rosner’s Maryland Blues shattered our highest previous bid record. When guest auctioneer Jamey Levinson from Alex Cooper slammed his gavel to record the final bid of $4,200, Maria and her husband Dan were overwhelmed with joy.
Guests also contributed directly to The Arc mission with $40,000 in gifts ranging from $25 to $10,000 following the live auction. Guests were inspired by a video portraying how people in our day services are moving “Beyond 4 Walls” and the challenge and need to make that a reality for everyone. Shortly after the event, a loyal donor came forward and made a $5,000 matching gift in hopes of bringing our total to $50,000. We encourage you to watch the video, share it with others and make a donation that will immediately double. Any amount will make a difference.
As the evening closed, one lucky friend of Zinnia Films owner David Morley, who did the mission appeal video, won the Tropical Vacation Raffle.
A million thanks to our sponsors and everyone who attended the event, bought artwork and raffle tickets, and volunteered their time to make this event possible. Each year, the event takes a giant tiger’s leap forward and we owe it to all of you.
