The first-ever “Art in Bloom” display will be a central feature at this year’s Spotlight Gala, benefiting Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts (ECPA) to be held Saturday, Nov. 9 from 7-11 p.m. at the Elmhurst Art Museum.
“We are thrilled to add a unique flair to this wonderful evening,” said Don Phillips, one of the owners of Phillip’s Flowers and Gifts, which is sponsoring the display.
Floral designers from Phillips are participating in a creative process in the weeks leading up to the Gala, interpreting selected paintings and sculptures from the Elmhurst Art Museum, and designing unique arrangements to showcase their talent and interpretation. The arrangements will be on display around the museum at the Gala where attendees can view the pieces and vote on their favorite arrangement.
“This is an exciting invitation for our talented designers to showcase their individual talent, and to have fun with some friendly competition in the process,” Phillips added. “As a local business, we are grateful for the opportunity to be connected with the Elmhurst Art Museum and ECPA. This is a celebration of performing arts, with a bow to the beauty of visual arts.”
In addition to the viewing of “Art in Bloom”, the gala event will showcase music and talent by local performing artists including Beyond Center Stage Jazz Dancers, York High School Jazz band and guitarists from Immaculate Conception Catholic Prep. Dance music and more.
“We have always loved being the venue for ECPA’s galas and look forward to seeing its future home expand on Elmhurst’s cultural offerings,” said John McKinnon, executive director of the Elmhurst Art Museum. “The Art in Bloom installation showcases the talents of local designers as well as collaborations across the arts and community organizations.”
The Gala benefits ECPA, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) dedicated to the creation of a state-of-the-art venue for theater, dance and comedy in the Elmhurst City Centre. Proceeds from the silent auction, live auction and wine and craft beer pull will benefit ECPA’s initiative.
Phillip’s Flowers and Gifts has been in business nearly 100 years and is in its fourth generation.
Tickets for the elegant cocktail style gala are $150 per person. For ticket information, go to ecpa-elmhurst.org.
