JOIN A SWINGING GOOD TIME – ALL FOR A GREAT CAUSE

Get all dolled up in your finest flapper dress or three piece suit and take a step back in time as the Naples Art Association (NAA) transforms into a roaring 20’s speakeasy for the year’s most anticipated event – For the Love of Art. This evening of artistic, culinary, and performing arts – all to raise funds to provide access to the arts for everyone – will take place on Saturday, April 6 at the NAA, located at 585 Park Street, beginning at 7:00 p.m.

“For the Love of Art is a wonderful opportunity to gather all of the NAA’s supporters in one space to celebrate its many  accomplishments,” said Aimee Schlehr, NAA CEO & Executive Director. “And, this year is extra momentous as we commemorate the NAA’s 65th anniversary as well.” Now, back to the party. As guests make their way to the NAA, they will be greeted by the smooth jazz sounds of solo saxophonist, Jim Blackburn, on the front plaza as a peaceful march against a world without art unfolds.

While guests sip a Prohibition-inspired cocktail, they will also learn about the importance of art and be presented with an opportunity to fund a local child’s art education. Attendees are then invited to guess the password to gain entry into the NAA’s very own speakeasy where they will dine on cuisine worthy
of a Gatsby celebration from Chef Brian Roland of Crave Culinaire/Venue Naples, including a
chef-manned Oysters Rockefeller torch station; high tea sandwich station; and delicious passed canapes.

Then, everyone is invited to kick up their heels and do their best Foxtrot or Charleston to the sounds of Father Al & The Jazz Congregation. “We will take guests on a journey back to the Jazz Age with the music of legends like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and more,”  said “Father Al” Ferrante, of Father Al & The Jazz Congregation. “As artists, there is no better feeling than supporting other artists and this event allows us to do just that.

So, get your dancing shoes on join us as we take you back to a more decadent time.”Guests will also delight the fabulous music of Tony Oberto as he tickles the ivories on the NAA’s back patio. And, a speakeasy wouldn’t be complete without some gambling. Try your luck at the blackjack, craps, or roulette table to support a Fund-A-Need or the chance to use your winnings to take one of four raffle items home with you.

But wait. There’s more! So much more. In addition to an extraordinary ambiance, entertaining musical acts, and delectable food and drinks, it’s only fitting that art will take center stage at For the Love of Art. Artists Juan Diaz, Mauricio Garay, Shah Hadjebi, Adorable Monique, Suzanne Stohl, and Janine Wesselmann will create fabulous, one-of-a kind artwork right before attendees’ eyes.

“I am honored to participate in For the Love of Art. This event conveys the meaning of celebrating talent and purpose, enriching our community, as well as artists and all creatives,” said Monique. “I am excited to be in full dress from the era and interacting with the crowd, all while creating a variety of pieces inspired by nature.”

For the Love of Art not only serves as an evening of entertainment and celebration, it is also to raise funds to provide art education for everyone – no matter  their socioeconomic background. With that in mind, there will be a special Fund-A-Need for Children’s ARTScool,  community outreach programs, and art supplies throughout the evening.

Special thanks to For the Love of Art sponsors: Naples Illustrated, Naples Daily News, Seminole Casino Hotel, Harmon’s Audio Visual, Woodward, Pires & Lombardo, P.A. Attorneys at Law. For the Love of Art tickets are $150 per person and $1250 for groups of 10 and can be purchased by visiting  www.NaplesArt.org.