Page 34 - South Mississippi Living - May, 2017

COASTNOTES
Celebrates
27th Gala
story by Kelsey Sunderman-Foster
The Walter Anderson Museum of Art is celebrating its twenty- seventh annual gala on June 9 at 6 to 10 p.m. Gala XXVII will be held at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino and feature a French theme in celebration of Walter Anderson’s travels through France.
“While in Paris, Walter decided the roaring art scene was not for him and started walking south. He soon discovered the cathedral in Chartres, and the cave dwellings at Les Eyzies,” said Rich Westfall, chairman of the Gala XXVII. “The cave drawings influenced his famous WPA murals, and can be viewed at the museum today.”
The Walter Anderson Museum originally opened in 1991 and
is dedicated to preserving and promoting the works of artist Walter Inglis Anderson. Anderson’s art is celebrated as an American Master whose depictions of life on the Gulf Coast have earned him
a place of recognition among the most revered American painters of the 20th Century. The museum also features works by Walter’s brother, Peter Anderson, master potter and founder of Shearwater Pottery.
“The support of benefactors
is critical to both the success of our gala and in allowing us to continue to fulfill the mission of the museum,” said Westfall. “With your support we can continue to showcase our community to the world and to display the art of Walter Inglis Anderson and the Anderson Family.”
Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased by phone or at the
museum. Tickets are $100 per person or $150 per couple and include two drink tickets, food, and live entertainment. Sponsorships range from $500 to $5000, with a presenting sponsor at $10,000. Each sponsorship level either receives tickets or a table, in addition to corresponding benefits that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
“We are excited about our upcoming GALA XXVII “A Summer in France!” and we appreciate the kind generosity of our sponsors,” Westfall said.
In addition to food and drink, the Gala will have music by Brightside and silent and live auctions.
Walter Anderson Museum of Art
510 Washington Ave., Ocean Springs Rosemary Roosa, executive director
Corey Christy, development and marketing manager 228.872.3164 www.walterandersonmuseum.org