Celebrity-Inspired Artwork Highlights "Benefit 2002" at Gallery r

Monroe County District Attorney Howard Relin, WXXI President and CEO Norman Silverstein and Java’s coffee shop owner Mike Calabrese each make significant contributions to the quality of life in our community. Now, they join a distinguished group that’s contributing the inspiration for an exciting showcase of artistic talent.

Dozens of art advocates are serving as "muses" for Rochester Institute of Technology and its student-run metro showcase for contemporary art, Gallery r. Each person has offered insight regarding personal favorites in areas such as literature, quotations, music and pastimes. Graduate students, faculty members and alumni from RIT’s art program have been assigned to transform each set of observations into a work of art that represents the responding celebrity.

The resulting collection will be highlighted during Benefit 2002, Gallery r’s third annual gala, on Friday, March 15, beginning at 6 p.m. During the event, guests may choose a work of art to take home in appreciation of their support of the gallery. Guests will also enjoy selected wines, gourmet hors d’oeuvres and live musical entertainment. Organizers expect the evening to make a lasting impression.

"We’re hoping this event will introduce us to people who may not already be familiar with Gallery r," says Zerbe Sodervick, Gallery r advisor and RIT faculty member. "We also hope it will encourage past supporters to continue their patronage."

Tickets are $101 and will admit the buyer and one guest. For more information on Benefit 2002, or to purchase a ticket, call 475-7562.

Gallery r, handicapped-accessible, is located at 775 Park Ave., Rochester. Regular hours run Thursday to Sunday, 3 to 7 p.m. All other exhibits are free and open to the public.