Art center throws casino night
At the Black Tie Fundraiser on Thursday, visitors gambled with fake money at the semi-formal fundraiser at the Butler Art Center's gallery.
Real money for tickets to the event was directed to the Associated Artists of Butler County Children's Scholarship Fund, which covers the cost of various art programs for local youth.
Kristie Pentrack, of Fox Chapel, perused the jewelry on sale by Arteco Jewelry. The items were made of recycled electronics parts.
“I think it's amazing that they were able to take something so old and turn it into art,” Pentrack said.
Ken Hertzog, president of the Butler Art Center, played a few casino games before handing off the remainder of his chips.
Hertzog said it looked like a lot of the participants were having a good time.
“I think it'll be very good for the center,” he said. “They've done so little for so long, it's time we started getting the public aware of what we're doing.”
The gallery was decorated with pieces by featured artists alongside artwork created by students of local elementary schools.
“If it means kids can come in here and get away and let their minds go, this is wonderful,” said Mary Jane Double of Butler.
Double said children are missing artistic opportunities in school, and she is happy to be a part of something that gives them that outlet elsewhere.“For them to come in and do this, it makes my heart shine,” Double said. “It's just fantastic. I'm glad I came.”Caterers fed attendees, and beer and wine from local vendors also were available.Hertzog said the event not only helps children, but it's part of a new initiative to bring the public back to the Art Center.“The goal is to get us back to where we were 15 years ago, by doing different shows and bringing it back into life again,” Hertzog said.
