On Thursday, March 2,  2017, AWBW hosted the return of  ArtWorks for Healing, a unique exhibition and art auction. Arena 1 Gallery at the Santa Monica Art Studios was filled to capacity and thanks to our sponsors, hosts, guests, curators and artists – the event raised nearly $50,000 in support of our arts programs!

Guests were treated to delicious tray-passed hors d’oeuvres by Bites & Bashes,  musical vibes from DJ Krieger, our “Auction Aide” cocktail sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and wine sponsored by Morandell Imports.

Artist and AWBW advocate Lili Bernard spoke passionately to the crowd, sharing about the trauma she has experienced and how art has saved her life. Her story is a strong example that we do not need to be silent about our pain, but can use art to speak out and to heal.

Contributing artists included longtime AWBW advocates Kim Abeles, Margaret Lazzari, Fabian Debora, Lili Bernard and The Art of Chase. Additional artists included Lita Albuquerque, Sarah Danays, Laddie John Dill, Jim McHugh, Lisa Golightly, Galia Linn, Danny First, Greg Auerbach, America Martin, Krista Augius and Yossi Govrin.Guest curators included Sunny Bak (Venice Art Crawl), Jacquie Israel (arthouseLA), MaryLinda Moss (Source Art) and Sandra Mueller.

View the complete list of exhibiting artists and curators in our online exhibition of the art that was on display.

A  preview of a collaboration between artists Michael Chearney and AWBW Founder Cathy Salser was also on display. “A Window Between Worlds: an energetic transmitter of healing and transformation” is a collection of 36 canvases (36 windows) painted as one, to be auctioned to 36 patrons at our fall event, the heART Awards, to be held at Hotel Casa Del Mar on October 1, 2017. This artwork creates a bond between these 36 supporters and our mission at AWBW; amplifying our work in the world. Each “window” is titled on its reverse by Cathy Salser; inspired by the spirit each piece carries.

Special thanks to our Honorary Chair Yvonne Hsieh; Sherry Frumkin, Yossi Govrin, Deb Foster and everyone at Arena 1 Gallery; Venice Paparazzi; Laura Pedrino Photography;  Seidman Gallery; and Qtego Auction Services.

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Artwork sold for the highest bid:
Lili Bernard.  Self Portrait in Pallet Knife, Red Mouth, 2010. Oil on Canvas, 30”x24″