Biennial event packs in art, music to support state museum
This year, Glitz and Grits, the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum fundraiser, will move to the weekend to celebrate a “Louisiana Saturday Night.”
This biennial event is set for Sept. 26 at the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum. Tickets are $150. Margaret Green, chairman of the Friends of the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum, which is hosting the event said she is excited about the offerings this year.
Two featured artists are Jim Tweedy and Raku Potter Bruce O’Dell.
While art is the focus of the evening, Green said, food and music will also be a part of the night. Live performances will be provided by Lafayette’s Bayou Boys. Also, the honorable Buddy Caldwell will perform as Elvis and DJ Marle Mar will spin music during the event. David Alvis of Silver Star Catering will provide the food, which will include a cobbler bar.
It’s money that helps the nonprofit museum bring in new art, not salary and operational needs.
“Friend’s funds primarily go to the exhibits,” Green said.
Wayne Waddell, administrator of the Northern Region of the Museums Program, said the funds raised at the event also help the museum’s future.
“The Friends were instrumental in keeping our museum open during recent state budget cuts,” he said.
Green said past Glitz and Grits fundraisers have been “very well attended,” usually bringing in 1,000 attendees. Getting people in the door is important, too, because the Friends of the Exhibit Museum hope to raise $150,000 at the event.
“Glitz and Grits is the largest Friends fundraising event showcasing special exhibits and celebrity guests all in an effort to grow support and awareness for the museum,” Waddell said.
Besides shining a light on the museum itself, the event has a similar effect for the attending artists.
“Glitz and Grits give artists an opportunity to increase their exposure by showcasing their work in Northwest Louisiana,” Waddell said. “And it also encourages their fans to visit the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum.”
WANT TO GO?
Glitz and Grits will be Sept. 26 at the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum. Tickets are $150. Call 632-2020 for more information.
