I think I covered the first Works of Heart art show 31 years ago. If I’m not mistaken, that was when the artists strictly had to use the wooden heart they were given. They could do anything with them to make something for the heart-themed art auction.
Now, artists have the option of using the 12-by-12-inch wooden heart, but they can also use anything else they want to create a work of “heart” for the longtime fundraiser.
The event, which originally benefited the old Mental Health Association, now raises money for Memphis Child Advocacy Center (MCAC). “When they closed down, the committee was looking for another charity to benefit and they found us,” says Beryl Wight, MCAC communications and grants manager.
A retrospective was held in 2007. “And then we took over from there.”
It felt a bit strange at first, knowing the event wasn’t going to be at the old Memphis College of Art, where it was held for years. Earlier locations included Oak Court Mall and WMC studios.
This year, the Works of Heart party and online auction was held February 11th at Memphis Botanic Garden. It was the first in-person Works of Heart in two years. I felt right at home at the event’s roomy new home. And I wasn’t the only one. “I thought it was wonderful,” Wight says. “I thought it was a perfect place for it to happen, coming back after two years and being in this environment. It was spacious. It’s a perfect backdrop for the art. I think it was a very successful and a good choice.”
I also felt right at home seeing some of the long-time Works of Heart artists.
All bidding was done online at this year’s event. Heart Hawkers wearing red boas assisted guests with bidding as well as information on artists.
The Big Heart Lounge VIP section was back, too. Those who bought a ticket for the lounge got upgraded food choices, comfy sofas, a full bar with specialty cocktails and a Works of Heart T-shirt.
About 400 people attended this year’s event, which featured Joe Birch as emcee, Wight says. Some $93,000 was raised for MCAC. Those are some big-hearted people.
