“Paint the Town Red” event raised $50K for the Noblesville non-profit
On Sept. 23, over 150 gala attendees gathered at the Hub & Spoke design center to honor the 21 arts nominees and celebrate Nickel Plate Arts’ ninth anniversary. The night’s theme was “Paint the Town Red” and the attendees were dressed in various shades of crimson formal wear and served pink champagne.
The evening began with live music from Indy Gorgeous Club and various artisans displaying their craftmanship in person, from pottery to leatherwork. A seated dinner was accompanied by Conversation Pieces, a local musician duo. A silent and live auction helped to raise over $50,000 in support for Nickel Plate Arts, a record-setting amount. Special fundraising emphasis was given to the new Juneteenth event and annual MakerFaire event, specifically helping newer artists learn how to display and sell their art.
“As our premiere fundraiser of the year, we couldn’t exist without our patrons and generous sponsors,” said Executive Director Ailithir McGill. “This year we were privileged to receive support from Allegion and Meyer Najem, as well as donations from Hub & Spoke, who donated our gorgeous venue and from Jacquie’s Catering, who dazzled our guests with decadent food.”
McGill also acted as emcee of the event, allowing local luminaries and board members to announce the winners at the height of the event.
“It’s always our great pleasure to recognize the diligent, creative, and unsung heroes of the arts community,” McGill said. “This year, we were excited to recognize 21 local artists, teachers, advocates, and leaders. Each and every one deserves recognition for their work in and alongside the arts.”
The winners for the 2021 Nickel Plate Arts Awards are as follows:
- Emerging Arts Champion: Ross Hilleary
- Emerging Artist: Frederick Durham
- Artist of the Year: Jessica Hancock
- Arts Patron of the Year: Steve Sanner, Jiffy Lube of Indiana
- Arts Educators of the Year (tie): Michelle Feeney and Erin Goodman
- Arts Leader of the Year: Tom Rich
Several of the winners spoke about community engagement with the arts, particularly engaging the public. From bringing the arts to young students to bringing spectacular visual interest to numerous Jiffy Lube exteriors, the opportunities are everywhere.