The Art Alliance of Idyllwild continues its full calendar of public events with this year’s iteration of its popular “Eye of the Artist” art show and social gathering. The event mixes delights for the senses — art in a variety of media by local AAI artists, auctions, drawings, wine, hors d’oeuvres and music in a relaxed and convivial setting.
The Saturday, March 7, event features a judged art show, a silent auction of donated art from local artists, and opportunity drawings for other art, giving lucky attendees the chance to win something beautiful. Net proceeds from the silent auction and drawings help fund AAI events, public art workshops and scholarships for local youth interested in creating art.
Ongoing sales of popular AAI merchandise — Deer Sighting mugs and calendars — are dedicated to underwriting AAI’s mission of keeping arts education alive in Idyllwild.
AAI spokesperson Lesly Martin said the first art scholarships to local youth will be awarded at the end of this year. “We’ll look for input from AAI members regarding criteria for scholarships and then the board will formalize the award process and the date for the awards,” said Martin.
Each Eye event is based on a theme, giving submitting artists a challenge and framework within which to create and have fun. Previous themes included “Sensuality” and “Whimsical.” This year’s theme is “Mountain Mystery,” suggesting many textures, shades and hues as inspiration for participating artists.
Eye of the Artist is one the original AAI events, first created by founders
Chris Trout and Grace Songolo. The premise for the event was an invitation to artists and art aficionados to see the world through particular-themed prisms, all the while connecting artists and art collectors in a social setting with food and drink.
There is no charge for the event that begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at the Caine Learning Center, 54385 Upper Pine Crest. Donations from the public are welcome. Only artists submitting work are asked to register for the event.
For more information, and for artist registration guidelines and submission categories, see www.artinidyllwild.org.
