Cocktails for KID smART, presented by Ochsner Health, impressed guests with music, magic (literally) and artistic energy as they gathered to celebrate arts education on March 20 in New Orleans.
Guests arrived at the Cannery for the patron party at 6:30 p.m., greeted by the iconic Preservation Hall Brass Band, setting a festive tone. Throughout the evening, Michael Dardant wowed the crowd with close-up magic tricks, while KID smART students’ artwork provided a colorful backdrop. The International School of Louisiana’s Circus Arts performers juggled or defied heights with stilt-walking, and Elektra Cosmetics’ glitter buffet allowed guests add a sparkling touch to their looks.
Featured artist Teresa Cole’s stunning work took center stage, culminating in a live auction that included this piece, a week-long villa stay in the south of France and an Argentinian Asado experience with Chef Gabriel Nazar. Guests also enjoyed a silent auction and wine pull.
“The steadfast support from our guests and supporters has made this fundraiser a driving force behind expanding our programming and creating meaningful, lasting change for students and educators in the community,” said Elise Gallinot Goldman, executive director of KID smART.
Themed “The ABCs of Art” to mark the organization’s 26th anniversary, the event’s chairs were Erin Hymel, Ragan Gankendorff and Nancy Rebold.
Fun Fact: Founded in 1999, KID smART has worked with 63,000 students and 11,000 teachers, bringing arts-rich, social-emotional education to public school students in New Orleans and beyond.
