Third Space Gallery and Thandi Restaurant are thrilled to announce GALA-VANT, held September 14th, exceeded all gala committee expectations! The black-tie fundraiser for Saint John’s only artist-run centre for contemporary art raised nearly $18,000.
GALA-VANT guests, dressed to the nines, entered the event on a red carpet and enjoyed appetizers courtesy of Thandi’s Restaurant. A lively auction led by Tim and Liz Isaac featured artworks by some of the region’s preeminent artists; the evening’s highest bidding piece was an untitled portrait by Sarah Tapley.
GALA-VANT also featured the unveiling of eight newly created famous folk murals created by Sara Griffin. Guests counted down to the unveiling of the murals, which were commissioned by Ken and Holly Singh, owners of Thandi Restaurant.
Murals of visual artist Fred Ross and Daphne Paterson, the first female Canadian pilot, were added to six other portraits of famous folk from Saint John. Fred Ross, the evening’s guest of honour was in attendance and recognized for his contributions to the city.
“We were truly blown away by the generosity of the city’s individuals, businesses and organizations who contributed to and supported the evening,” said Jacqueline Collomb, Programming Chair for Third Space Gallery. “The funds and awareness raised for the Gallery, in equal measure, will significantly help us achieve our programming and educational goals in the upcoming year.”
Third Space Gallery is committed to representing local, regional and national professional contemporary artists and is one of the few that pays artist fees. All funds raised at GALA-VANT will go towards future programming and achieving the Gallery’s mandate of promoting understanding and appreciation of contemporary art.
Special thanks to event sponsors: Ken and Holly Singh, Thandi Restaurant, The Santara, City of Saint John, Uptown Saint John, InColor Printing, and Tim Isaac Antiques, Art and Auctions.