If you’ve never been to ArtsWestchester’s ArtsBash Weekend, the arts council’s annual spring fundraiser, then you’re missing something. Floor after floor of food, fine art and fun at ArtsWestchester’s Arts Exchange headquarters in White Plains. It begins with an exclusive ArtsBash party on Friday, May 19, followed by a Family ArtsBash celebration on Saturday, May 20.
This year’s ArtsBash fundraising party will feature food from more than 25 restaurants, cocktails and an opportunity to meet artists in their open studios. Leslie Lampert of Café of Love and John Crabtree of Crabtree’s Kittle House have been appointed to the ArtsBash Cuisine Committee and will direct the food offerings.
In addition, the gallery’s newest exhibit, “From the Streets: An Exhibition of Urban Art,” will offer the backdrop for the event, displaying graffiti murals, photography, sculptures and mixed-media street art for all to enjoy.
“This not-to-be-missed experience provides a creative combination of food and art and is especially thrilling this year because of the unique work that highlights the evolution of graffiti and street art, celebrating some the region’s most recognized street artists,” said Janet Langsam, CEO of ArtsWestchester. “Our artists will open their studios to the public and top restaurateurs will elevate the experience with a creative take on cuisine. We encourage everyone to come out to celebrate resident arts and enjoy a great party.”
At the Family ArtsBash, kids can participate in a variety of hands-on art activities and artist-led workshops. These include opportunities to create with chocolate, clay and felt and drumming circles.
Family ArtsBash is also a chance for families to explore ArtsWestchester’s exhibit of urban art. Additionally, resident artists will once again open their studios to the public, making the event a unique opportunity for children to meet professional painters, sculptors, printers and more who create artwork throughout ArtsWestchester’s building.
The 2017 ArtsBash Weekend celebration will take place on Friday, May 19 from 6 to 9 p.m. at ArtsWestchester in White Plains. Family ArtsBash will take place on Saturday, May 20 from 1 to 5 p.m. Tickets to the Friday evening reception are $75 and are available online at artsw.org/artsbash or at the door Friday evening. For Family ArtsBash, there is a suggested family donation of $10.
– Georgette Gouveia
