"I see so many faces that have been here since the very beginning, and that happened over 20 years ago," said Cindy Rachofsky, standing on the stage at the 24th TWO x TWO for AIDS and Art Gala fundraiser, presented by Saks. "It’s really extraordinary, and what I wish is that this crazy world that we live in right now understood love, compassion, and support as the group in this tent does."
The glittering lights of Dallas shone brighter than ever as the 24th TWO x TWO for AIDS and Art Gala raised a remarkable $7.6 million for a noble cause. This year’s gala, presented by Saks, was a testament to the enduring spirit of compassion and support that the event has fostered over the past two decades.
A Grand Affair in Dallas
Cindy Rachofsky, the driving force behind this incredible event, was radiant in a white Carolina Herrera column dress as she graced the stage. Her words reflected the heart and soul of TWO x TWO, emphasizing the importance of love, compassion, and support in today’s turbulent world.
A Double Cause, A Double Impact
The TWO x TWO gala is a unique celebration that serves two critical causes – amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, and the Dallas Museum of Art. This ingenious approach aims to maximize participation and contributions, making it a win-win for both causes.
Art, Auctions, and Ambiance
The gala features a silent auction within the Rachofsky’s splendid Richard Meier-designed home. The minimalist design of the property, adorned with pristine, all-white walls, mirrors the ambiance of an art museum. It’s the perfect backdrop to display the 122 donated works of art, turning the event into a celebration of creativity and philanthropy.
Art That’s Truly for Sale
The highlight of the evening included a massive, over 8-foot tall urn by Mexican artist Eduardo Sarabia, adorned with a Chinoiserie-esque blue and white pattern featuring unexpected hemp leaves. The message was clear – "Everything’s for sale!" as Howard Rachofsky put it, emphasizing that the night was all about raising funds for the cause.
Celebrating Artistry and Generosity
Renowned artists generously donated their works to this philanthropic event. The list includes Grace Carney, Tom Anholt, Anish Kapoor, Tavares Strachan, Calida Rawles, Maja Ruznic, Alicia Adamerovich, Madeline Peckenpaugh, and María Berrío, the evening’s honoree, who graced the event in a resplendent gold Simone Rocha ensemble.
A Star-Studded Guest List
The gala, which commenced at 6:30 PM, drew an impressive guest list of designers and their patrons. Among them were Prabal Gurung, Silvia Tcherassi, and Bach Mai, all adding a touch of high fashion to the charitable gathering. Notable attendees also included CEO of Saks Marc Metrick, Cameron Silver, Bertha González Nieves, Ken Fulk, Thomas Keller, Porschla and Jason Kidd, Jessica and Dirk Nowitzki, and Melissa Ireland, TWO x TWO’s executive director, and Scott Rothkopf.
The TWO x TWO for AIDS and Art Gala in Dallas is a celebration of art, compassion, and the boundless generosity of its patrons. In its 24th edition, it continues to shine as a beacon of hope, raising $7.6 million to combat AIDS and support the arts. As the event reaffirms, love, compassion, and support are alive and well in the heart of Texas.
Artistic Highlights: A Night in Dallas
What is the TWO x TWO for AIDS and Art Fund?
The TWO x TWO for AIDS and Art is an annual contemporary art auction that takes place at The Rachofsky House in Dallas, with a dual mission of supporting two vital organizations: the Dallas Museum of Art and amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research.
At this remarkable event, the worlds of art and philanthropy converge, as patrons gather to raise funds for the fight against AIDS while celebrating the power of contemporary art. The auction, set against the backdrop of the stunning Rachofsky House, showcases a curated collection of art donated by renowned artists, all contributing to a shared cause. Funds raised are dedicated to AIDS research and art-related initiatives, making TWO x TWO for AIDS and Art a beacon of compassion, creativity, and community support.
In summary, TWO x TWO for AIDS and Art is not just an art auction; it’s a powerful platform that unites art enthusiasts, philanthropists, and artists in a shared commitment to making a difference in the world.
How Does an Art Fund Work?
Art funds are essentially privately offered investment vehicles designed to generate returns by buying and selling works of art. These funds are typically overseen by a professional art investment management or advisory firm, which plays a pivotal role in the fund’s operations.
Here’s a simplified breakdown of how art funds operate:
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Investment Focus: Art funds invest in a collection of artworks, aiming to appreciate in value over time.
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Management by Professionals: These funds are managed by art investment experts who bring their knowledge of the art market to make informed investment decisions.
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Fees Structure: The management firm usually charges a management fee, ensuring the fund’s smooth operation, and may also receive a share of the returns generated when art pieces are sold.
In essence, art funds provide a way for investors to participate in the art market, leveraging the expertise of professionals to navigate this unique investment landscape and potentially benefit from the appreciation of art assets.
What is the Access Bank ART X Prize?
The Access Bank ART X Prize is a prestigious award that serves as a valuable catalyst for emerging artists hailing from Africa and its diaspora. The primary aim of this prize is to provide these early-career artists with opportunities that are instrumental in advancing their artistic practices. The ultimate goal is to equip them with the skills and exposure needed to thrive on the global stage, ensuring their potential for remarkable success.
In essence, the Access Bank ART X Prize is a significant initiative that supports and nurtures the talent of artists, setting them on a trajectory toward international recognition and achievement.
How Do You Earn Money from Art?
If you’re an artist looking to turn your passion into profit, there are various avenues to explore. Here are 12 effective ways to monetize your artistic talents:
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Use Online Platforms: Take advantage of numerous online platforms to showcase and sell your art to a global audience.
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Sell Your Art in Person: Participate in art fairs, exhibitions, and local events to sell your creations directly to art enthusiasts.
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Publish Your Work for Royalties: Explore opportunities to publish your artwork in books, magazines, or online, and earn royalties.
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Teach a Class: Share your expertise by teaching art classes or workshops, passing on your skills to eager learners.
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Apply for Art Grants: Seek out art grants and funding opportunities that can provide financial support for your creative projects.
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Create a Blog: Launch a blog where you can share your art, insights, and engage with a community of art enthusiasts.
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Sell Brand-Related Merchandise: Capitalize on your art’s popularity by offering branded merchandise like prints, apparel, or accessories.
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Participate in Art Competitions: Enter art competitions and exhibitions to gain exposure and potentially secure prizes and sales.
These diverse approaches allow artists to not only generate income but also build a sustainable career in the art world, showcasing their talents and connecting with appreciative audiences.
How Do Art Funds Make Money?
Art funds employ a distinct strategy for generating returns. Here’s how they operate:
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Acquire to Sell: Art funds acquire artworks with the intention of selling them rather than holding them as permanent assets.
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Investment Period: Most art funds adhere to a predefined investment period and end-date, which marks when the art investments within the fund will be sold.
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Ownership Duration: On average, art funds retain ownership of their art for around five to seven years. However, it’s crucial to note that all artworks within the fund must be sold within the fund’s designated lifespan.
In essence, art funds make money by carefully selecting and managing art investments, aiming to sell them strategically within a specified timeframe to generate returns for their investors.
How Do I Receive Payment for Art?
When it comes to receiving payments for your artwork, there are various popular methods to consider. Here are some effective options:
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Online Payment Gateway: Utilize an online payment gateway on your website to securely accept payments from customers.
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Third-Party Marketplace: If you sell your art through platforms like Etsy or Amazon, you can receive payments through their built-in payment systems.
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Email Invoicing: Send invoices via email to your clients, allowing them to pay electronically.
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Mobile Payment Apps: Embrace mobile payment apps like PayPal, Venmo, or Square to accept payments through smartphones.
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eChecks with ACH Processing: eChecks, along with Automated Clearing House (ACH) processing, provide a convenient electronic payment option for customers.
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Cryptocurrency Payments: For tech-savvy clients, consider accepting payments in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum.
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Electronic Bank/Wire Transfers: Offer the choice of direct electronic bank or wire transfers for large transactions.
By offering a range of payment methods, you can accommodate your clients’ preferences and ensure a seamless payment process for your artwork.
