it's about @#%!! time: Art Unleashed recap!

Here it is! The Art Unleashed recap! And only a MONTH late!

The facade of Hale Arena at the American Royal:

A few of my t-shirts for sale:

This was the first year at Hale Arena, and it was great—lots more room to move around compared to previous years. But it still filled so quickly that I was unable to get around to see all of the amazing artwork! And ultimately, I didn't win anything, though I gave it a good try.

Here is the view from the stage. How do I know that? Because in a surprise turn of events, Robin had me come up to be interviewed by guest emcee & local NBC news celebrity, Brett Anthony. I talked about the process in designing, laser-cutting, welding & sandblasting the annual yard art. (It was an honor, but man, my knees were shaking!)

During the live auction, FOUR people were bidding against each other on Donna VanHooser's spectacular cat mosaic. So the auctioneer offered that Donna would make a custom mosaic for each of them for $4500. SOLD! And just like that, Donna brought in $18,000 singlehandedly. She is my HERO!

And now, onto the art!!!

Paintings by Israel Sanchez:

Beaded art by ???

Painting by Lindsay Salet

Plush & paintings by Sandi Devenny:

Wool felted dogs by Karla Taylor

bird plush by Robyn Fabsits-Grine

Cat mosaic by Donna VanHooser

Painting by Michelle Berg:

Painting by Flora Chang:

Paintings by Joni Johnson-Godsy:

Skateboard dog by David Coffman:

Painting by Michelle Berg:

More of Karla's felted dogs (which I'm still upset I lost!):

Painting by Stephanie Allen:

A close-up of my quail purse:

One of the pieces of metal yard art, in my yard, and rusting nicely:

All in all, one of the best years yet! Thanks to EVERYONE who donated art, volunteered and/or attended! The final total was around $86,000—which blew away the $75,000 goal!