Smart About Art

It was so much more than just art for art’s sake on November 6, 2008, when gallery man Arthur Roger opened the French Quarter doors of his newly renovated home for KID smART’s ninth annual fundraiser, benefitting the organization. The festivities kicked off with a patron party at 6 p.m., when guests enjoyed champagne and a guided tour of Roger’s immaculately decorated home, including his envious collection of fine art. An hour later the cocktail reception ensued, with libations and scrumptious fare provided by Joel Catering and Event Planning. In keeping with the philanthropic theme of arts education, NOCCA’s Jeremy Marx Trio wowed the throng of patrons throughout the evening. The featured artist for the evening was internationally acclaimed Luis Cruz Azaceta, who generously donated limited edition, signed and numbered giclée prints of his vibrant and abstract “Museum Plan for Voice,” a gift to generous supporters of the foundation. Co-founders Allison Stewart and Campbell Hutchinson were in attendance to welcome and thank guests, as was Chair Melanee Usdin, Committee Chairs Evelyne Clinton and Jill Dupré, and board members Phyllis Jordan, Michael Bush, Celeste Coco-Ewing and Barbara MacPhee, among many.