The lifestyles of the rich and famous will be on display at Blaffer Gallery’s annual gala May 22.

The event, which is the primary fund-raiser for the University of Houston’s art gallery, will be held that evening at 7 p.m. The theme of the gala coincides with the gallery’s current photo exhibit, Daniela Rossell’s “Ricas y Famosas,” which spotlights the charismatic lifestyles of Mexico’s glamorous elite.

“This gala is a community effort to help the Blaffer raise the money it needs to present quality exhibits and educational outreach programs,” said Terrie Sultan, director of the Blaffer Gallery. “It is very key that this event is well-supported by the community because it reflects that the city believes in what the gallery doing.”

Festivities will begin in the gallery, where attendees can view “Ricas y Famosas,” and then adjourn to the atrium of the Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture for a seated dinner. The event also will feature a silent auction with items such as works of art, trips and jewelry available for bidding.

Among the artwork up for bid are pieces from UH art faculty, including painters Al Souza, professor, and Aaron Parazette, associate professor. Also included in the auction is a piece from New York painter Bill Jensen.

“The art and other items in the auction come from a combination of people who care about us and what we do,” Sultan said.

For more information on the gala or to make a reservation, contact Kim Howard, development and marketing manager for the Blaffer Gallery, at (713) 743-9529 or via e-mail at klhoward@central.uh.edu.

Mike Emery
memery@central.uh.edu