The NOCCA Institute hosted their spirited “Art & Soul” annual gala. The evening began with a Patron Party “Lounge” followed by a Press Street Block Party preceding the gala at the NOCCA Chevron Forum.
The festivities included drinks from Abita, Balcony Ballroom, Cafe Bars (by American Cold Brew), Cafe Henri, Congregation Coffee, Cocktail & Sons, Jackson Family Tree Wines, Martin Wine Cellar, Old New Orleans Rum, NOLA Distilling Co., Republic National Distributing Company and Swamp Pop. The signature French 75 cocktail by Cocktail & Sons and Donner-Peltier Distillers was presented in commemorative “Art & Soul” champagne flutes by Simplee Gourmet.
The silent auction featured artwork, vacation packages, jewelry, Mother’s Day bouquets and more, and also included a giclée of this year’s “Art & Soul” artwork, “X” by alum Jon Moody. The live auction hosted a selection of prizes including trips to Tuscany and Ireland, tickets to a taping of “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” in Los Angeles and a dinner prepared by chef Frank Brigtsen and NOCCA’s Culinary Arts students in Press Street Station with wine pairings by Grande Krewe. There was also a drawing for a $3,000 shopping spree at Lee Michaels Fine Jewelers and a wine drawing, featuring cases of red, white and sparkling wines.
Patron Party fare was provided by Patron Street Station, Press Street Gardens and NOCCA’s Culinary Arts Department. Gala eats were from celebrated local chefs, oyster shuckers and food trucks.
This year’s “Art & Soul” Co-Chairs were Jeanette and Ben Jaffe and Laura and John Sillars. Susan Tullos served as Auction Chair.
A Twilight Party completed the evening's events, with treats including Pizza Delicious and Company Burger, who created a mashup entitled “The Pizzurger” for partygoers in attendance.
More than 700 patrons participated in the evening’s festivities.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
What: “Art & Soul” gala, benefiting The NOCCA Institute
When: Saturday, May 13
Where: NOCCA Chevron Forum