Evanston Made, the arts organization putting Evanston art and artists on the map, is hosting a New Year’s Eve Silent Auction and Benefit, featuring original works of art donated by Evanston-area artists, from 12-6 p.m. CST on Dec. 31. To view artwork for the auction and to place bids on the featured items, visit evanstonmade.org.
New Year’s Eve in 2020 will be anything but normal. Most plans have been tabled, but one organization has found a way to celebrate and keep celebrating for a full six hours online! Leave it to Evanston Made, Evanston’s newest nonprofit arts organization, to craft an opportunity to be together, have fun and celebrate what they love most through an online art party.
As always, Evanston Made looks to the Evanston arts community to champion their work. Community members are encouraged to visit the online auction and bid, or donate directly to Evanston Made as a show of their support. To make a donation to Evanston Made, visit https://evanstonmade.org/donate/.
Proceeds from the auction are to provide for programming throughout the year and allow Evanston Made to bring ambitious exhibitions by emerging and established artists to Evanston.
The upcoming auction will feature a variety of media — paintings, collages, ceramics, sculptures, prints, glass pieces and more — donated by artists and patrons from Evanston and the surrounding area.
“We are experiencing such incredible momentum in 2020 and we credit our 300+ artist members,” said Lisa Degliantoni, founder and executive director of Evanston Made. “From the Art Shop to Art Under Glass, we are connecting artists to the public and collectors. This fundraiser is a fantastic chance to support the arts!”
Anne Wolff, volunteer and event co-chairwoman, touted the organization’s work, saying it allows artists to thrive while also providing the community greater access to art.
While appreciating the creative talents of local artisans, virtual auction attendees are further invited to enjoy the delectable handiwork of yet another local gem. Evanston Made partnered with Kombucha Brava to create a signature cocktail and mocktail for the event. See below for the recipe, and raise a glass to a new year filled with new possibilities!
Kombucha Brava Signature Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- Ice
- 1.5 ounces of vodka
- 6 ounces of Kombucha Brava’s lemon, ginger, turmeric and pepper
- Lemon wedge
- Mint sprig
- 1 teaspoon simple syrup (optional)
Directions
- Combine vodka and kombucha over ice in a lovely glass.
- Garnish with mint and lemon.
- Enjoy!
Regina Sant’Anna and Douglas Skites, Kombucha Brava’s owners, are known for making healthy and delicious kombucha at their Custer Avenue headquarters.
“At Kombucha Brava, we believe that by supporting Evanston’s local economy we create positive social and environmental impacts in our community,” Sant’Anna said. “Art is at the very core of that. Whether you are an artist, an art lover or a patron, art is a reflection of ourselves. It uplifts and connects us all. Join us in supporting the local arts community!”
This auction is the first Evanston Made fundraising event, though the organization hopes to make it an annual effort. All proceeds go toward programming and development, allowing Evanston Made to continue its mission of connecting the Evanston arts community with the general public.
“Evanston Made has given me an incredible amount of exposure and opportunities,” said Bryana Bibbs, an Evanston Made member artist. “I look forward to seeing what other opportunities myself and other members will get in 2021!”
Art consultant Shannon Cahill, of Art En Object, also sang the praises of Evanston Made’s impact, calling the organization “invaluable.”
“Our mission at Art En Object is to match local art and artists with art collectors, and EM has created a central repository of artists that we draw from constantly,” she said. “In doing so, we have been successful in placing the art of local talent in homes throughout Evanston, the North Shore, Chicago and beyond.”
Additional supporters of Evanston Made’s work include Sellia Georges, owner of Evanston’s Cupitol Coffee and Eatery.
“Cupitol supports the arts and Evanston Made, because artmaking and art in general brings people together and builds community,” Georges said. “I admire Evanston as it is a wonderfully connected community with a vibrant art culture.”
