The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and Northern Florida hosted its annual Art for Wishes event on August 2. The truly one-of-a-kind art auction created quite a buzz in Orlando with a seemingly endless supply of lively entertainment, including live artists, celebrity impersonators, and numerous musical acts.
The organization sought the creative guidance of J. Michael Hicks of A Spectacular Event to bring to life the silent auction-based event at the downtown Orlando Repertory Theatre. The space was artfully decorated, with strategically placed paint cans bearing the charity's logo dripping paint onto drop cloths that served as table linens.
"The concept was to create an entire evening of art," explained Hicks. "[We] eat, drink, hear, and see art, so we approached the concept with all of the senses."
Guests filled the theater space to get a glimpse of Rock Demarco, the man billed as the world's fastest painter, executing his signature performance art. Demarco utilizes a custom-made glove fitted with paintbrushes on the tips of each finger to create his works live in front of an audience of art and in a matter of minutes. One by one Demarco gave the masterpieces, five in all, to the foundation to auction off to partygoers.
Book It! Entertainment also filled the evening with spectacular entertainment from all types of artistic genres, including celebrity impersonators. Some of the most raved-about acts of the evening were the Blues Brothers tribute band and a realistic Elvis impersonator.
Attendees snacked on hors d'oeuvres provided by Arthur's Catering, Café Tu Tu Tango, Morton's Steakhouse, and Wolfgang Puck as they bid on art-related auction items, while those seeking a little more decadence enjoyed a special dessert lounge to bid and dine in style.
