On Saturday, June 21, the Toledo School for the Arts will host the 2nd annual UNDISCLOSED—an exhibit that provides a platform for area artists to gain exposure.
The event is unique in that participants select the artwork without knowing who created it until after the selection.
“UNDISCLOSED came about as TSA staff and volunteer committee members were seeking a way to involve the outstanding artists in the greater Toledo community more in our school,” says Lindsay Williams, the event planner and assistant to TSA director Martin Porter. “Through UNDISCLOSED, we are able to showcase the work of at least 100 artists per year in our Gallerie 333.”
The Name Says It All
Here’s how UNDISCLOSED works: Admission is $100 per couple and each couple receives a raffle ticket. The number on the ticket determines the order in which participants choose a piece, getting 30 seconds to select their artwork. Each piece of artwork is created on a 12×12-inch frame with the artist’s signature on the back. “The lack of signature on the front puts up-and-coming artists on a level playing field with those more established in our area. The concept really creates a feeling of excitement in the room, with artists present to meet those who will own their work,” Williams said.
Last year’s inaugural UNDISCLOSED was a huge success, she said. “We had a packed house, with 100 couples vying for 100 pieces of art. Artists and participants were more than gracious and very supportive of TSA’s art education,” Williams said.
New this year are a “TMA Directors Award” and a “TSA Student Choice Award.” The first three artists whose work is chosen by participants will receive a gallery exhibit in the Gallerie 333 during the September Art Walk.
Putting the FUN in Fundraiser
The funds raised from UNDISCLOSED go directly back to the school. As a charter school, TSA will receive about 40% less in funding from the state than public schools of equivalent size. A funding gap of nearly $2 million prompts fiscal creativity from the administration for raising donations and holding events such as UNDISCLOSED. Those efforts help keep the school tuition-free, according to Williams.
There will be only 100 tickets available for this event. Those interested in checking out the artwork in advance can attend a preview from 5 to 7pm Tuesday, June 17.
UNDISCLOSED will be held on Saturday, June 21, from 7pm to 9pm. Hors d'oeuvres and libations will be available thanks to Cynthia Bunch. Tickets are $100 per couple and can be purchased by visiting undisclosed.eventbrite.com or by calling 419-246-8732, ext 256.
Toledo School For The Arts, 333 14th Street. ts4arts.org