Art for Charity event highlights local causes and regional artists (updated)

Image by Katie Kozar for TheDigitel

Update June 7: Among the flurry of events peppered throughout Charleston this month, interior designer and local philanthropist Michael Mitchell celebrated the halfway mark of the 2nd annual Art For Charity last weekend.

Running through June 20th, the unique gallery event located in the heart of Charleston’s Upper King Design District, is hosting weekly receptions open to the public to benefit six nonprofit charities and more than 30 regional artists.

With extended gallery hours and open seven days a week, Mitchell anticipates raising thousands for American Red Cross, Charleston Waterkeeper, Crisis Ministries, Friends of MUSC Children’s Hospital, Roper St. Francis Ryan White Program, and MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. “Art For Charity has a special place in my heart. To highlight artists and increase awareness and donations for these local charities has been one of the most fulfilling accomplishments of my career thus far.”

In conjunction to proceeds from daily sales, the participating organizations have been able to host receptions to educate attendees and donors about their specific mission and encourage supporters to open their hearts and purchase original artwork for a great cause.

The remaining Art For Charity 2011 events include American Red Cross on June 10th, Charleston Waterkeeper on June 17th and MUSC Hollings Cancer Center on June 17th. Receptions start at 5:30 p.m. and for a $10 suggested donation, include appetizers, wine and local entertainment.

Original reporting:

Hosted by the Michael Mitchell Gallery at 438 King St., Art for Charity is an event focused on bringing attention to local charities through the works of over 30 regional artists that work in a multitude of mediums.

Founded in 2009, Art for Charity brings six special events to King St, held at the Michael Mitchell Gallery throughout the next month and a half.  The events will be showcasing a variety of artistic and unique talent, and proceeds from these events, as well as gallery sales will benefit local charities in the Charleston area.

Here's the rundown of the dates and charities:

  • Friday, May 20th: Friends of MUSC Children's Hospital
  • Friday, May 27th: Crisis Ministries
  • Friday, June 3rd: Roper St. Francis Ryan White Program
  • Friday, June 10th: American Red Cross
  • Thursday, June 16th: Charleston Waterkeeper
  • Friday, June 17th: MUSC Hollings Cancer Center

Artists featured include: Ester Melton, J Renee, Terry Brennan, Kim Keats, Rex Hunter, Karen Keene Day, Jim Victor, and many more.

Upon a quick peek into the gallery last week, sculptures of recycled material, wooden furniture, paintings, steel sculptures and more were vibrantly dancing around the gallery.  As the events progress and pieces are sold, new artwork will be rotating in and out, so be sure to hit up as many of the events as you can to get a good look at all the talent floating through.

A suggested donation of $10 at the door is all you need to check out the events, and will include, drinks, food, and entertainment from a host of local providers, such as Hall's Chophouse, Social Wine Bar, Cru Catering, O Ku Restaurant, and Cupcake.  All events are from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

For more information, swing by Michael Mitchell Gallery in person or online, or check out Art for Charity's website here.