Wine, entertainment and art

Suzie Harrison

Art enthusiasts are invited to an evening that’s been described as a

one-of-a-kind fund-raiser. The 14th annual Collector’s Choice benefit

for arts education at Laguna College of Art and Design will be held

from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday.

The evening includes wine, a catered dinner buffet, live

entertainment, an expansive gallery exhibition and an opportunity to

win original artwork by well-known international, national and local

artists, who are donating their work to benefit the college.

“Each year guests attending Collector’s Choice, take home

incredible works of art,” president of the college Alan Barkley said.

Fifty Laguna Beach artists have generously donated their work,

including Cynthia Brittain, Hedy Buzan Williamson, Jacqueline Kamin,

Julita Jones, Anne England, Mia Moore, Mike Tauber, Lu Campbell, John

Eagle, Joan Corman, Hal Lambert and more, including another 45 pieces

from outside Laguna Beach.

“Collector’s Choice celebrates the importance of art and its

creators, now and into the future,” trustee and Collector’s Choice

chair Nancy Milby said. “We are especially grateful to the

professional artists whose overwhelming generosity of artwork makes

this special event possible.”

She said that they are also celebrating the spirit of community

with this event.

“Since the college’s inception as a community art education

institution 42 years ago, we have forged enduring friendships with

businesses and individuals who are still partnering with us today to

ensure the college’s successful future,” Milby said.

Barkley looks forward to welcoming all the guests who are helping

raise money to benefit the students and programs of the college.

“Our students are gifted women and men selected for their unique

talents and their willingness to embrace our values of excellence,

skill and creativity,” Barkley said. “Collector’s Choice responds to

that commitment by investing in their future.””

Tickets are $100 per person. Laguna College of Art and Design is

at 2222 Laguna Canyon Road. For information, call 376-6000.