Clarington Mayor’s Gala: For the Love of Art

DURHAM — Clarington’s annual event celebrating the arts is back in Bowmanville later this month.

The Mayor’s For the Love of Art Gala is on Feb. 25 from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Bowmanville branch of the Clarington Public Library.

The gala features a silent auction, mystery gift boxes, a light buffet, live entertainment and a cash bar. It’s a fundraiser for the Visual Arts Centre of Clarington and A Gift of Art — two art galleries and not-for-profit agencies in the municipality.

A Gift of Art’s Ann Harley says attendees will experience a “special entertainment surprise” that’s not to be missed.

Also providing entertainment are musicians Alexa Goldie and High Standards.

As for artists, a slew of them will be represented at the event, including painters Patty Kingsley, Branson Schell and Pauline Stephenson; wildlife photographer Gary Blake; jewellers Tami Bellows and Deborah Babcock; and potter Brenda Sullivan. Many of the works will be for sale.

As well, art from high school students will be on display.

The silent auction items include a wine fridge, a TV, and tickets to The Stratford Festival and 4th Line Theatre.

Actor, writer, comedian and Metroland Durham Region columnist Neil Crone is the MC.

For the Love of Art is a 19-plus event, and cocktail attire is requested.

Tickets are $50 and available at The Visual Arts Centre of Clarington, 143 Simpson Ave., Bowmanville; A Gift of Art, 187 King Ave E., Newcastle; Clarington’s Municipal Administrative Offices, 40 Temperance St., Bowmanville; and the Clarington Tourism Office, 181 Liberty St. S., Bowmanville. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.eventbrite.ca.

The Bowmanville library branch is at 163 Church St.