Marco Island Center for the Arts is thrilled to announce the distinguished artist/honorees for its 12th Annual Gala, “For the Love of Art,” set to take place at the Hideaway Beach Club on February 10, 2024.

Gala co-chairs Shirl St. Germain and Tom Larson, extend a warm invitation to the community to join in the celebration of the thriving arts community on Marco Island and honor individuals whose significant contributions have shaped the artistic landscape.

The 2024 Gala honorees are:

Charlie Blum – Theatre and Performing Arts

 A retired entertainment industry professional, Charlie Blum played a pivotal role in bringing the Art Center Theatre concept to the Marco Island Center for the Arts. His passion for the arts extends to the stage, where he performed the lead role in The Music Man, marking the Art Center Theatre’s first venture into presenting full-scale musicals in an intimate venue.

Betty Newman – Professional Impressionist Artist

Betty Newman, a professional impressionist artist since 2019, has been making waves in the arts community. Her gallery, located at 258 Royal Palm on the second floor, showcases her talent and unique artistic vision.

Mary Pat Palombo – Life-inspired Fiber Artist

A New Jersey native, Mary Pat Palombo found her way to Marco Island in the late nineties. Her art reflects her deep connection to family, nature, and the intangible aspects of life. Through her creations, Palombo expresses her belief in the profound importance of life’s intangibles.

Jo Ann Sanborn – Everglades Artist

Jo Ann Sanborn passionately paints the threatened Everglades landscape with rich expressionistic compositions and uncommon color. Her work has garnered international acclaim, with collectors across 

the United States, Canada, Europe, Scandinavia, and Africa. Sanborn is an active member of professional organizations, including the National Association of Women Artists.

Joel Shapses – Award-winning Sculptor

Joel Shapses, a sculptor with an inherent artistic gift, has received numerous awards and recognition for his sculptures displayed in private collections and public venues across North America and Europe. His expertise in stone sculpture is shared through teaching at the Marco Island Center for the Arts.

 

Ann Vreeland – Ceramic Artist and Educator

Ann Vreeland, the sole proprietor of Sisters Seaside Ceramics, focuses on non-functional ceramics. In addition to running her micro pottery studio, she teaches ceramics at her studio in Bryan, Ohio and at the Marco Island Center for the Arts.

The 12th Annual Gala promises an evening of celebration, appreciation, and support for the arts on Marco Island. The community’s generosity plays a crucial role in encouraging and sustaining the endeavors of visual and performing artists while fostering the creation of inspiring works for all to enjoy.

Tickets and sponsorships are available now by calling Marco Island Center for the Arts at 239-394-4221 or visiting the website at https://www.marcoislandart.org/annual-gala/.