Mystic Arts Center to hold annual fundraiser on July 27th from 6:30-11pm
Some celebrate old age with sports cars and tattoos but Mystic Arts Center is tossing those old adages out the window and celebrating its 99th year with a hip new Vespa – turned work of art – by Connecticut artist Ted Mikulski. This pop-art piece on wheels is the grand prize of MAC’s special raffle, along with a host of festivities during its annual fundraiser, MAC99, on July 27th from 6:30-11pm.
The event features a full roster including live performances by roots-rock band the Rivergods, and jazz improv musician Michael Chicoria plus an array of art for sale made exclusively for MAC99. Aptly titled “99 Pieces of Art on the Wall”, the art sale will feature several 6x6” panels painted by regional artists. Guests can delight their palate with delicious morsels prepared by Go Fish and enjoy beverages from an open bar throughout the evening.
Highlights from MAC99’s silent auction include a Nascar Experience Package, featuring 4 tickets to the upcoming NASCAR race at Loudon, NH and “all-access” passes to the pit and garages at the race; behind the scenes guided tour of Brooklyn Art Museum and Botanical Garden, 2 nights stay at the New York Yacht Club, plus so much more!
Vespa artist Ted Mikulski is a dynamic visual artist based in Connecticut. His interactive installations and artworks reflect inspiration drawn from the 60’s Soho pop art scene. Ted’s work has been featured in exhibitions throughout Connecticut and New York. He is currently preparing for his first solo exhibition at the Dorian Grey Gallery in New York City.
Musician Michael Chicoria attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA and recently had the opportunity to open for the Boston Pops Festival Orchestra.
The Rivergods, an original roots-rock, Americana-tinged quintet born in 1997, is made up of musicians; Ben Parent – guitars, vocals, Nancy Parent – pedal steel, vocals, Mike Palazzolo – bass, karma, Trevor “T$” Chandonnait – drums and Dan Spano – Hammond organ, piano. The group’s style ranges from harmony-rich folk to dirge country to swamp blues to jangly pop. Last year, the Rivergods were named ‘Artist of the Month’ by FolkAlley.com and received a New London Whalie award for ‘Best Americana” band.
MAC99 tickets are $79 per person and available for purchase online or in person at MAC. Additional tickets must be purchased to participate in the Vespa raffle and art sale. Vespa tickets are $99 each, available at MAC Monday – Friday from 9am – 5pm and Saturday and Sunday from 11am-5pm. The raffle winner will be announced at the event but need not be present to win.
Tickets for the art sale will be available during MAC99. All proceeds benefit Mystic Arts Center. For more info visit www.mysticarts.org or call 860.536.7601.
