Some supporters came decked out in a literal interpretation of the fundraiser’s theme of “Propelling the Arts Forward” at Saturday’s Columbus Area Arts Council Uncommon Cause arts fundraiser.
That included artist Jeri Cannon, long known for her creative ways. She came to the gathering at Harrison Lake Country Club wearing a small cardboard airplane with three propellers and wings that moved.
“It was designed by none other than (local artist) Bob Burris several years ago when he and I went to a Gilligan’s Island party,” Cannon said. “I revamped it for CAAC.”
Others such as honorary chairs Victoria Griffin and Chris Raskob expressed the theme in a different way. Raskob, a real corporate pilot, dressed as a PanAm commercial pilot in a throwback outfit that Griffin secured online, along with her old-style flight attendant costume.
“The smiles on the faces of those at the event were so heartwarming,” Griffin said in a Facebook post. “I don’t know if we broke a record or not, but the compliments from everyone is what makes me so very happy.”
She had said before the event — one that includes both a silent and public auction to raise money — she was determined to help top previous arts council Uncommon Cause records. Organizers said a total would be available at a later date after expenses are covered.
The nonprofit arts council offers everything from the free and popular First Fridays for Families events to workshops and classes in activities such as glassblowing while coordinating a range of art exhibitions at 411 Gallery to The Workshop. Plus, it coordinates pop-up concerts featuring touring musicians who have built a following beyond conventional, mainstream music in order to highlight unique elements of the arts that no one else is promoting.
Kathryn Armstrong, arts council executive director, was proud of what she saw unfold Saturday.
“On behalf of the board and staff, we are grateful to everyone who supported Uncommon Cause this year,” Armstrong said. “Our theme, ‘Propelling the Arts Forward’ is exactly what CAAC is focusing on, especially during the ongoing challenges of the prolonged pandemic.
“We have much to be thankful for and are overwhelmed with gratitude by the generous contributions made by this community.”
