Press Release: Art Museum Gala

PRESS RELEASE
For immediate release
October 16, 2009

Contact: Shantana Judkins
Publicist
University of Wyoming Art Museum
(307) 766-3497
shantana@uwyo.edu


The University of Wyoming Art museum will host its 17th annual benefit ball, “Gala 2009: A Highland Fling,” at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24, in the University of Wyoming Union Yellowstone Ballroom.

The Art Museum’s event of the year will include both silent and live auctions, run by auctioneer Dan Sullivan, gourmet dining and dancing to live music performed by Play It Forward.

“Tom and I are confident that we will have a sellout crowd again this year,” said Jacque Buchanan, Gala co-chair along with her husband UW President Tom Buchanan. “It seems that tough times bring out the best in our generous Art Museum supporters, and having an event where the men can wear skirts is certainly attracting some notice! The guys in kilts might decide to vie for a very special trip to Nova Scotia, where they’ll have additional opportunities to wear those tartans.”

Many other unique items will be up for grabs during this year’s live auction including Peter Fillerup’s bronze “Fanning a Twister-Steamboat,” a wonderful log dog house, paintings, art photographs and, of course, lots of single malt Scotch. Special items this year will be experiences that you and your family will enjoy—from going deep under the earth to explore the FMC mine to enjoying a “Chef’s Table” at the new Cavalryman Supper Club.

For those who like to take their chances, two raffles are being held to benefit the Museum as well. While the winners will be announced at the Gala dinner, they need not be present to win. A fabulous diamond necklace underwritten by Dooley Oil will be the first raffle drawn, and the second item is a $1,000 gas card provided by Gala sponsor Laramie GM Auto Center.

The Gala Benefit Ball is held annually to provide funds for the Art Museum’s exhibitions, education, collection and outreach programs that support nationally renowned and culturally significant exhibitions and programs for Wyoming and the surrounding area.

Dinner, the live auction and dancing will follow the cocktails and silent auction. Individual tickets are available for $175 as are table sponsorships at various levels. To purchase your tickets or for more information call the Art Museum at (307)766-3477.

“Imagine learning from the masters” is a guiding principle of the UW Art Museum’s programs. The Art Museum and Museum Store are located in the Centennial Complex at 2111 Willett Drive in Laramie. Hours are Monday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.