UICA's annual OddBall fundraiser celebrates the arts

The Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts will present an evening of drama and intrigue and has announced an entertainment line-up to enchant guests. UICA invites the public to enjoy a vibrant evening featuring a cocktail hour, seated dinner, contemporary entertainment, dancing, and an exclusive first look at UICA’s ArtPrize Eight
 exhibition, FUTURE TALK. UICA’s OddBall fundraiser is both festive and revelatory as guests and distinguished patrons celebrate, support the arts, and delight in viewing UICA’s ArtPrize exhibition 12 days before the Grand Rapids' event officially begin while enjoying entertainment that coordinates with this year’s title and theme.

FUTURE TALK presents 16 works by 17 emerging, mid-career, and established artists whose media, materials, and content are reflective of and responsive to their time. OddBall guests will have the opportunity to meet and mingle with a number of the FUTURE TALK artists, and can engage with the interactive pieces on view. The forward-thinking exhibition theme will also be incorporated into OddBall’s event décor and entertainment, creating a fully immersive, one-of-a kind event.

In keeping with tradition, the annual fundraiser and gala will charm guests with extraordinary live performances and entertainment that is thought-provoking, curious, and as the title suggests, odd. Changes to the highly anticipated event include an elegant seated dinner and an inaugural Arts Advocate Award which will be presented to Kathryn Chaplow, Principal and Interior Designer, Kathryn Chaplow Interior Design, and former Chair of the UICA Board of Directors. The inaugural award was designed by local artist Tom Duimstra. Duimstra’s original sculptures will adorn each table as centerpieces that are available for purchase that evening. The event will feature a lavish dinner provided by Applause Catering and Events, and a dessert bar by local favorites Cakabakery and Rowster Coffee.

This year’s OddBall entertainment includes the premier of FOUR SEASONS an exclusive performance and ArtPrize entry by Ritsu Katsumata. The time-based performance features original music that celebrates the four seasons and is based on William Duckworth's "Time Curve Prelude #6" and is accompanied by Hugo Claudin on the electric violin and by Rachel Finan who offers her talents in the form of dance and percussion. Guests will also enjoy a striking performance by Emma Loo and Sam, a boundary-pushing duo that incorporates multi-instrumental melodies and vocal effects to achieve an extraterrestrial sound and transformative experience.

Attendees can become part of the exhibition by channeling the event theme into their wardrobe with a dress code inspired by the future. UICA’s OddBall event is an opportunity for local fashionistas to translate their creativity into costume or couture with an “anything goes” approach that reflects the annual gala’s tone. Outfit inspiration can be found on UICA’s website and Pinterest page.

All proceeds from the event support UICA’s mission year-round, including education, exhibitions and community events. Tickets are on sale now. The event also celebrates UICA’s groundbreaking exhibitions, high-quality arts education and film program, support of local artists, and far-reaching impact on the Grand Rapids community.

From stunning visual presentations of art and performance, to intentional table settings and fashion, UICA’s OddBall is an event not to be missed. Find more information about OddBall here.