While most of you probably know of the incredible work that UNICEF does year after year, you may not be aware of their annual UNICEF Next Generation Art Party. Well, if that’s the case, then allow us to introduce you to one of our favorite events!
UNICEF Next Generation is a group of young leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators who commit their resources, resolve and enthusiasm toward supporting UNICEF’s lifesaving programs across the globe. Through their activities, members mobilize their networks and inspire their generations to take action on behalf of the world’s most vulnerable children. One way they do this is by throwing the annual Art Party in Los Angeles, bringing people together to celebrate for a cause while also supporting the arts and adding to their personal collections.
On Saturday, February 24th, a festively clad group gathered at 800 Main (a super hip artist-in-residence and multi-purpose space in Venice Beach) to raise money for UNICEF’s child protection work in Mexico by auctioning art by established and emerging artists. Daisy, our head of ops, attended to represent Simply Framed as a sponsor—and, of course, make sure anyone who purchased an unframed piece of art at the event was clued into how easy it would be to get their pieces custom framed with us.
Things actually kicked off the week leading up to the party, when patrons were invited to bid on a selection of original works at Paddle8.com. This year, the full collection of artwork for attendees to choose from at the event was as stunning as ever, and featured a gorgeous gallery wall showcasing photography custom framed exclusively by us in our White, Black and Natural Gallery Frames. We had a blast mingling with some of our Pro Partners—and via their work featured on the walls!—including Carly Martin, Dorothy Shain, Denise Crew, The Fourth Artist, Patrice Dworkin, Jackie Leishman, Max Wanger, Permanent Press Editions and Mina Teslaru.
Other highlights of the unforgettable evening, which was once again put together by the inimitable Gabé Hirschowitz, were a special DJ performance by Nikki Pennie, another jaw-dropping aerial performance by Whitney Kirk, live painting by Phoebe Tillman, Dorothy Shain live painting on The Starling Project candles and School in a Box and Art in a Box displays in the UNICEF Tent. Guests mingled amid these unique attractions while indulging in delicious Petrossian caviar, desserts from the famous Sweet Lady Jane, Stella Barra pizza, and an open bar featuring Clover Juice cocktails. Delish!
Needless to say, we all had a fantastic time—and to cap it all off, many of the guests got to take home original works of art in Simply Framed frames.
Got a piece of art that needs to be custom framed? Browse all of our available frames right here.
