“REVOLUTION”: This original watercolor was donated by artist Leon Rainbow for the Tombola lottery at the Arts Council of Princeton’s spring art and wine benefit, Pinot to Picasso, to be held on Friday, May 18. This year’s theme is “Vintage 1968: Vinyl & Velvet,” in honor of ACP’s 50th anniversary.

In celebration of the Arts Council of Princeton’s (ACP) 50th year, the theme of their signature spring art and wine benefit, Pinot to Picasso, is “Vintage 1968: Vinyl & Velvet.” The “art party” will take place on Friday, May 18, 6-10 p.m. at the Technology Center of Princeton, 330 Carter Road. Approximately 400 guests are expected to attend the celebration to include a salon-style exhibition, gourmet tastings from local restaurants, wines from around the world, and dancing.

“Expect to be transported to the eclectic urban art and music scene of 1968 — a time that had a profound impact on the culture in our country and marked the beginning of the Arts Council of Princeton,” said Dawn McClatchy, ACP trustee and Pinot to Picasso event co-chair. “Art-lovers always enjoy this event. We transform raw space into an amazing loft party. This year, rad dress code is encouraged.” 

One of the highlights of the evening is the Tombola, an Italian-style lottery where every ticket holder wins an original work of art. More than 75 beautiful original works of art were donated by talented local artists. The number of Tombola tickets available is limited to the number of pieces of art. Tombola ticket holders, having already previewed the available choices, make a quick decision when their number is drawn. In the end, each Tombola ticket holder takes home a unique work of art. 

Funds raised from Pinot to Picasso contribute, in part, to the Arts Council’s Anne Reeves Fund, which supports Community Arts initiatives and the Arts Council of Princeton’s Artist-in-Residence Program.

Tickets for Pinot to Picasso are $125 for a Taster (event) ticket and $300 for a Tombola entry. Sponsorship tickets are available starting at $500. Purchase tickets online at artscouncilofprinceton.org or call (609) 924-8777 x109.

Preview the artwork at the “Pinot to Picasso Exhibition” at ACP’s Pop-Up Studio in the Princeton Shopping Center, 301 North Harrison Street, from May 9-15, with a special preview opening reception on May 10 at 6 p.m. Visit artscouncilofprinceton.org for viewing times.