When Michelle Eskenazi and Ernae Mothershed joined the Hirshberg Foundation Marathon Training Team last January, they weren’t quite sure which would be more challenging: training for the Mayor’s Midnight Sun Half Marathon in Alaska, or raising $3,000 each for the Foundation. Determined to succeed, they put their creative talents together and organized Art for Life, an art sale and boutique.
“Our goal was to create a fun and interesting event that would appeal to a wide audience,” said Mothershed. “Art for Life introduced shoppers to the LA art scene in a warm and friendly environment, and provided a wonderful opportunity for everyone involved to support the Foundation.”
Held on June 7 at the Kolor Graphics Bureau in downtown Los Angeles, Art for Life featured some of the best creative talent in Los Angeles. For a $5 entrance fee, guests experienced the latest in local art, fashion and gifts, while enjoying award-winning Charles Jacquin wines and delectable food. Two DJ’s provided entertainment while shoppers participated in a silent auction of items that were donated by the featured artists. The late afternoon event raised over $3,000 for the Hirshberg Foundation and guaranteed Michelle and Ernae a trip to Alaska with our Marathon Team.
“We were overwhelmed by the response from the participants. Everyone involved added something special to the event. We were fortunate to connect with so many talented and generous companies,” exclaimed Eskenazi.
Featured exhibitors included contemporary artists Frank Bruynbroek, Stephen Canthal, Irene Carranza, Margaret Garcia, MandellArt & Rod Sampson; apparel from Higher Consciousness & Nahnuh; jewelry designers Earth Monkey, Virginia Kander, Karma Kulture & Alison Winston; gifts from Honeymilk children’s wear, Mon Jardin bath & body, home accessories and gifts, NelsonArt handmade watercolor cards & Laura Zinger luxury pillows and pottery by Eileen Branda and Sara Paloma.
According to Lisa Manheim, Director of the Foundation, there will be a 2nd Annual Art for Life. “Michelle and Ernae did such a fantastic job organizing this event, and the response was so terrific, that we definitely plan on adding it to our fundraising calendar next year.”
Art for Life raised over $3,000 for the Hirshberg Foundation and guaranteed Michelle and Ernae a trip to Alaska with our Marathon Team.The fun and creative event raised awareness and helped motivate Michelle and Ernae to reach the finish line together and never give up!