Shelby's Social Diary

Painting a pretty picture at Artista means colorful charity fundraising

Photo by Aaron Reissig
Photo by Aaron Reissig
Photo by Aaron Reissig
Photo by Aaron Reissig
Photo by Aaron Reissig
Photo by Aaron Reissig
Photo by Aaron Reissig
Photo by Aaron Reissig
Photo by Aaron Reissig
Photo by Aaron Reissig
Photo by Aaron Reissig
Photo by Aaron Reissig

Artists in action — that was the scene at Artista in the Hobby Center when Kari Govin and Laura La Rue chaired ARTcetera II benefiting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

More than 200 art enthusiasts turned out to observe emerging visual artists at work and bid on their pieces. It was a unique opportunity to get up-close-and-personal with the artists and discuss their work as the canvasses slowly took on artful meaning. The talent painted for three hours starting from blank or partially-painted, oversized canvasses.

This live art event raised more than $7,000 for the society. Among artists working at easels scattered throughout the downtown restaurant were Micah Simmons, Taft McWhorter, Belinda Smith, Lori Betz, Gregory Scott, David Wilhelm and Rebecca Benitez.

Introducing the artists was benefit emcee Johnny Bravo of Jack FM and ESPN Radio. Toward the end of the evening, he conducted a live auction of three of the most interesting pieces. While guests perused the intriguing canvasses, Arthur Yoria provided musical entertainment.

Adding to the bottom line was a silent auction of already-completed works contributed by Justin Garcia, Lori Tatum, Taft McWhorter, David Wilhelm, Avi Moyal and more.

A second summer ARTcetera event is scheduled at the Golfcrest Country Club in Pearland, Aug. 26.

unspecified

Party Watch

Distinguished Houston gents gather for Brioni’s grand opening

What: Brioni Grand Opening with Men of Distinction

Where: Brioni Boutique in River Oaks District

The scoop: Italian menswear designer Brioni celebrated the grand opening of its Houston flagship at River Oaks District with a luxurious evening that merged high fashion with philanthropy. The November 7 event featured a private preview of Brioni's Bespoke Trunk Show, spotlighting the brand’s tailored craftsmanship. Men of Distinction, a nonprofit honoring Houston's community leaders, took the opportunity to recognize its esteemed researchers and honorees, celebrating milestones in raising funds for critical medical research at Texas Medical Center.

Dr. Michael A. Belfort of Texas Children’s Hospital delivered remarks that highlighted Men of Distinction's contributions to pioneering medical procedures, such as life-changing surgeries for spina bifida. Guests enjoyed Italian prosecco, old-fashioned cocktails, and tastings from The Macallan’s 12- and 15-year single malts, along with Italian bites by Bari Ristorante. Attendees left with luxurious parting gifts, including a Brioni crocodile leather keychain and a spa experience at The Post Oak Hotel.

Photo by Gary Fountain

A.J. Williams with Andi and Ballard Infante.

Who: Jesse Tudor, Gary Peterson, Mike Linn and Carol Linn, Keith Mosing and Alice Mosing, David Wurthrich, Tom Perich and Debra Perich, Dancie Ware and Jim Ware, John Serpe, Molly Crownover, Kevin Gilliard and Frank Billingsley, Tracy Dieterich, Robert Bernard, A.J. Williams, and Andi and Ballard Infante.

brioni river oaks district fundraisers men of distinction