Never Done Before! A collaboration of talents from four famous local artists, painting LIVE at the Art Ties Us Gala!

Art Ties Us is a celebration of the Arts and Artists of St. Petersburg. It starts as a contest that awards cash prizes and a unique twist where ties are produced in the likeness of the first, second, and third place winning paintings. This year 61 paintings were donated by local artists and the winning entries were selected by an esteemed panel of judges. The ties are worn by staff at The Birchwood for one year. “It is a great way to show our support and promote local artists year-round.” said Chuck Prather, owner of The Birchwood and presenting sponsor of the Art Ties Us Gala.

This year the Art Ties Us committee will bring something totally unique and exciting to the Gala. Painting live on stage, Derek Donnelly and Michael Vahl will work on a unique and collaborative art piece. Next to them, Nicholas Lucius and Frankie G will collaborate on their own unique piece. These priceless collaborations, painted in a live format, has not been done before. Both completed pieces, as well as the top three winners, will be part of the live auction at the Gala. All art submitted for the Art Ties us contest will be auctioned at the Gala as well. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Bill Edwards Foundation for The Arts whose initiatives encourage and support the Arts and artists in St. Petersburg.

The 2nd Annual Enso Award will be given to The Dali Museum this year and will be presented by St. Pete’s famous glassblower, Duncan McClellan. The Enso Award is given annually to an individual or organization demonstrating an ongoing commitment to the Arts in our community. Dr. Hank Hine, Dali Executive Director, is scheduled to accept The Enso Award at the Gala.

The Art Ties Us Gala will take place in The Grand Ballroom of The Birchwood on Friday, September 13, 2019, from 6 PM to 10 PM. Join sponsors like Resource Property Management and so many others in supporting the arts in St. Petersburg. Sponsorships are still available and Individual tickets can be purchased at www.ArtTiesUs.com.