Arts nonprofits often rely on unconventional, inexpensive ways to make their events interesting without going overboard on costs. Here are some inspiring examples from recent art events: new ways to present food, entertainment that brings paintings to life, and simple materials that sub as decorative elements.
Guests pulled appetizers from a suitcase at Redmoon Theater's benefit.
Photo: Barry Brecheisen for BizBash
Guests pulled appetizers from a suitcase and napkins from a performer's dress at Chicago's Redmoon Theater Spectacle Lunatique event in March.
Photo: Barry Brecheisen for BizBash
Humble art packing materials like bubble wrap adorned walls at the Museum of Contemporary Art's January benefit in Chicago.
Photo: Jeremy Lawson
At an opening party for Los Angeles's new Annenberg Space for Photography in March, an expansive, changing display of photographs illuminated a tented ceiling.
Photo: Line 8 Photography
The Roy and Edna Disney/CalArts Theater (Redcat) benefit in L.A. in March included a chandelier constructed from colorful shoe boxes.
Photo: Stefanie Keenan/WireImage
Chicago's Collaboraction theater festival benefit in March included entertainers that portrayed figures from artworks by Edvard Munch.
Volunteers from New York performance center the Kitchen crafted creative centerpieces from wire, crumpled invitations, and large safety pins for the tables at the Armitage Gone! dance company gala in February.
Photo: PatrickMcMullan.com
