Wearable Art Show only in Naples

Imagine the glamour and energy of New York Fashion Week combined with the sophistication and exclusivity of Naples and you have Scene to be Seen: An Art Runway Show presented by the Naples Art Association (NAA), which will take place on November 1 at the NAA. Only in its second year, this wearable art experience has already been hailed as the “Year’s Best New Fundraiser” by Florida Weekly and brings a level of talent and style that even Naples hasn’t seen before.

Over 25 local – and internationally-recognized – artists will outfit models in men’s and women’s garments; accessories; jewelry; and more and send them strutting down the runway at this undeniably electrifying and
innovative show.

For artist, Leeann Kroetsch, that means using non-traditional seamless felting techniques to combine 10 yards of hand-dyed chiffon and habotai silk fabric, 12 shades of merino wool fiber, and silk fiber for embellishments
to create a spectacular swing coat. “Over the years, the intensity of my artistic endeavors has continued to
grow with my chosen medium in textile arts, specifically felting. I am most inspired and captivated by the magic which happens while I make fabric out of wool fiber. I seek materials from all sources and I am most thrilled when I can regenerate a vintage thrift store find into a renewed and uniquely beautiful new element,” said Kroetsch.

According to Barbara King, Scene to be Seen chair and owner of BKS Styling & BKS Yoga Studio, this is the event of the year to attend. “Fashion is already seen as an art in other larger cities. It was time to bring something of this magnitude to Naples. And, what better organization to take the helm than the Naples Art Association? As
a wardrobe stylist last year, it’s been such an honor to step into the chair position this year and be a part of the process with these talented artists.”

Before the fully-staged runway show, guests will enjoy a dynamic welcome reception complete with delicious hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktails all in an immersive atmosphere allowing the opportunity to socialize and experience the artists’ process and work first-hand. After the show, artists from Los Angeles, New York, Philippines, and Italy as well as right here in Southwest Florida will have their work on display and available
for purchase. And, the night wouldn’t be complete without a fabulous after party with music and a full cash bar.

But, Scene to be Seen isn’t just an opportunity to showcase artists’ beautiful, wearable artwork, which
would be enough on its own. It’s hosted to raise funds for outreach programs for deserving students at
area nonprofits including photography workshops for students with intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy,
autism, down syndrome, and more from the STARability Foundation; watercolor courses for clients of the
Southwest Florida Multiple Sclerosis Center; and even summer camp for Collier County Public School students
who are bussed to the NAA and participate at no cost in the NAA’s popular ARTScool program.

“The NAA’s focus is to create, share, and connect our visitors, artists, and the community to the arts. And, hosting these types of exciting events allow us to do all three,” said Aimee Schlehr, NAA CEO/executive director.
Scene to be Seen: A Runway Art Show will take place on Friday, November 1 at the NAA. Tickets are $200 per VIP ticket or $100 for general admission ticket. Tickets can be purchased by visiting https://naplesart.org/scenetobeseen/ or by calling 239- 262-65170