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5th Annual Gala Nets $180,000 for Crystal Cove State Park—Hundreds of Crystal Cove Alliance supporters enjoyed an “Evening with the Artists” at a Gala September 8 that generated funds for restoration of the Crystal Cove Historic District. Due to tremendous participation from event sponsors—including the Title Sponsor, The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove, generous underwriters, plein air artists and attendees—Crystal Cove Alliance raised an impressive amount at this years annual beach soirée. The net proceeds of $180,000 from the event will be used to help realize the communal vision of preservation and public use of the remaining 24 cottages in need of restoration at the Crystal Cove Historic District. Crystal Cove Alliance’s 5th Annual Tropical Gala was held on the evening of Saturday, September 8, on the beach promenade in the Crystal Cove Historic District. In keeping with traditional Crystal Cove culture, guests wore tropical attire and saluted a martini flag while enjoying the sunset. Music by the Hawaiian group Kamaki & Friends created a fun atmosphere, highlighted by hula dances performed by students as young as 5 years old from The Hula School of Rancho Santa Margarita. Fire knife dancers also enthralled the audience as the Pacific surf line was highlighted with aqua marine colors. The display and sale of coastal plein air artwork by award-winning local and nationally recognized artists was a prominent feature of the Crystal Cove Alliance fundraiser. Artists who paint “en plein air” have a longstanding relationship with beautiful Crystal Cove and its charming cluster of historic 1920s and 1930s cottages. This year, 44 artists participated in the Gala invitational art show overseen by the Crystal Cove Alliance Arts Committee. “Since 2003, many of the paintings displayed and sold here at Crystal Cove are featured in important collections throughout the country,” said Jean Stern, Executive Director of The Irvine Museum. “They are examples of the best works of contemporary American plein air art.” Guests appeared to agree, purchasing 49 of the 134 paintings. Mr. Stern judged the artwork for the event. Thanks to a generous donation from Joan Irvine Smith Fine Arts, $11,000 in cash prizes was awarded to First, Second and Third Place, an environmental award, as well as ten Honorable Mentions. The First, Second and Third Place paintings will be on display at The Irvine Museum through October 31. The following artists received awards for their outstanding plein air paintings: |
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Crystal Cove Alliance, the official co-operating association benefiting the Crystal Cove State Park Historic District, is a non-profit 501 (c)(3), corporation. The Alliance raises funds through membership programs, private donations, special events, and store sales, as well as corporate and foundation grants to improve and expand park programs and facilities. All of Crystal Cove Alliance’s activities are focused on environmental and cultural education, volunteerism and stewardship. Information on membership is available at www.crystalcovealliance.org. Plein air paintings continue to be available for purchase in the Crystal Cove Historic District at The Store. |
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