The “Just Say YAYA at Home” virtual gala, benefiting Young Artists/Young Aspirations (YAYA), celebrated five years at the Arts Center and honored Avenue’s own Beverly Church, Kay Kerrigan and Baty Landis for their leadership in the organization’s capital campaign.
Participants tuned in on Zoom with only a small group of YAYA supporters and community members joining in person. Food and drinks were provided by Faubourg Farms for the in-person attendees.
The event included live streams of interviews with YAYA Artists and pre-recorded elements including a studio visit with Brandan “BMike” Odums, a tour of the Arts Center and more. Terrance Osborne offered a live drawing lesson, followed by the auction of the piece he created. Tank and the Bangas performed live music.
Patrons and sponsors received gift bags delivered to their homes that included a cocktail mix from Faubourg Farms; macarons from Ralph Brennan Catering & Events; art supplies to follow along with Terrance Osborne’s live virtual class; postcards of artwork made by YAYA teen artists; and gifts from the glass studio.
A virtual auction included prizes such as vacation and staycation packages and exquisite artwork. YAYA artwork was also for sale through the online store.
Major sponsors included The Helis Foundation, Landis Construction, Walt Disney Imagineering, The Gore Family Fund, Rebecca Maisel & Hattie Collins and The Monteleone Family Foundation.
The event supported YAYA’s free after-school arts and entrepreneurship programs for youth. YAYA didn’t miss a single day of programming in 2020, transitioning to virtual classes with at-home art supply kits and then to hybrid programming starting in the summer.
➺ Event at a Glance
What: “Just Say YAYA At Home,” benefiting YAYA
When: Wednesday, November 18, 2020
Where: Virtual and YAYA Arts Center