BLACK CANVAS GALA: More than 40 participating artists were given a 12” x 12” blank canvas on which to create a new work of art for this year’s Black Canvas Gala and Art Auction, to be held Saturday, March 23 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the West Windsor Art Center. Proceeds from the event will support the WWAC’s education programs and multidisciplinary arts programming.

The West Windsor Arts Council (WWAC) invites the community to participate in a unique and interactive fundraiser. The Blank Canvas Gala and Art Auction, to be held at the arts center on Saturday, March 23, from 7 to 10 p.m. It will feature original works of art created by artists in the region, and will also give guests the chance to be part of the creation of a collaborative piece of art to commemorate the evening.

As part of this invitational show, each of the more than 40 participating artists were given a 12” x 12” blank canvas on which to create a new work of art. Each will be offered for sale in support of the many activities and projects at West Windsor Arts Center. The works will range from realism to postmodernism, using all manner of mediums, including fabric, photography, acrylic paint, and found materials.

“Our annual gala is always a wonderful and creative opportunity to come together as a community and enjoy an elegant evening out celebrating this warm and welcoming center for the arts,” says Aylin Green, executive director of the West Windsor Arts Council. The event will feature live music by guitarist Dave Baker, an open bar, and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and sweets.

Live art demonstrations will also be featured. The first will be by Anne Kullaf, an accomplished painter whose deft brushstrokes elegantly evoke locations from South Jersey to France. The second will feature James Hickey, who creates dynamic abstracts in bold colors with mixed media, channeling a depth of emotions.

“We are also excited to announce that renowned teaching artist Katie Truk will lead an interactive art project to create a large-scale mural during the gala,” adds Green. All guests will be invited to collage and paint their own square of the mural, if they so choose.

The works of the Blank Canvas artists are now on display in the exhibition gallery at the West Windsor Arts Center. This exhibit allows members of the community to preview the work, but purchases will only be possible during the silent auction on March 23.

Proceeds from the Blank Canvas Gala and Art Auction will support the WWAC’s education programs benefiting young children, teens, and adults, as well as multidisciplinary arts programming for the community often offered free of charge.

The Blank Canvas Gala and Art Auction is March 23, from 7 to 10 p.m., at the West Windsor Arts Center, 952 Alexander Road, West Windsor. Must be 21 plus. Tickets at $75 a person can be purchased in advance at westwindsorarts.org, in person, or by phone at (609) 716–1931.