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Arundel Lodge cele ated its Open Eye Gallery and Studio Art Program and other recovery programs with a fundraising event on Friday, November 13th, that generated more than $50,000 in sponsorships and individual donations.
The nonprofit organization, located in Edgewater, provides mental health and substance use treatment services to over 3,000 community members. Individuals who participate in Arundel Lodge's visual arts program explain that creating art helps them grow, cope with trauma and aids in their overall recovery.
During the evening, more than 130 guests enjoyed cheesesteak spring rolls, pulled pork and Jack Daniels BBQ sliders, honey-drizzled ie, pecan and pear uschetta, spicy crab bites with Thai curry sauce, and other delectable treats, catered by Jimmy Duffy's Catering of Philadelphia. The Starr's Jazz Band entertained the crowd with soulful rhythms and Annapolis attorney, Joseph Gormley, donated his time as auctioneer, motivating the crowd to meet several matching gifts during the live auction.
Artwork created by Arundel Lodge artists was available for purchase and Colin Lacey, one or Arundel Lodge's most prolific artists, sold six pieces.
Secretary of the Maryland Department of Disabilities, Carol A. Beatty, addressed guests. “I am particularly pleased to be here in support of the artists programs at Arundel Lodge. I have worked serving those with disabilities my entire professional life and have witnessed firsthand the healing power of art, music and other forms of creative expression. There are times when words cannot capture the depth of our expression," she says. "And there are times when art can take over where words are not possible. I have seen art achieve a deeper level of healing and peace than any other medium could attain. I am pleased to lend my support to all the programs offered by Arundel Lodge and feel each of them can only be complimented by a holistic approach which includes many types of expressive opportunities.”
Julia Andersen, the coordinator for Expressive Therapies at Sheppard Pratt Hospital's Eating Disorders Program, gave a touching speech about the healing aspects of art making to transform grief and increase understanding for survivors of suicide.
Executive Director, Mike Drummond, thanked everyone for their attendance, adding “If you see a piece of artwork by an Arundel Lodge Artist that you like-buy it! And be generous to the Lodge too. The purpose of tonight is to have fun, bid excessively on auction items and support Arundel Lodge.”
For more information, visit arundellodge.org.
PHOTOS BY TONY J PHOTOGRAPHY
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