The Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts (UICA) will host it’s fifth annual OddBall fundraiser and ArtPrize kick-off party on September 12th and will, once again, present an evening of outrageous and unexpected fun. UICA invites the public to enjoy an exclusive first look at the ArtPrize Seven exhibition SENSE while enjoying unique contemporary entertainment. All proceeds from the event support UICA’s mission year-round, including education, exhibitions, and community events.

UICA’s OddBall fundraiser is both festive and revelatory as guests celebrate, support the arts, and delight in viewing UICA’s ArtPrize exhibition a week before the citywide event officially begins. SENSE, the title and theme of UICA’s ArtPrize Seven exhibition, will showcase six site-responsive projects in six distinct locations in UICA’s exhibition space. SENSE  looks to engage that which is at the root of all experience, the things that make us who we are, that allow us to experience and learn from the world around us: sight, smell, hearing, taste, touch, and perhaps even perception beyond the five senses: intuition.

Courtesy UICA
Courtesy UICA
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To further emphasize the artwork on display, this year’s OddBall theme White Walls is meant to create a minimalist, unobtrusive background for the art that will be on view. The entertainment, decor, and even guest attire, will complement the theme and allow guests to focus on how the space has been transfigured by site-specific artworks that engage all of the senses. Many of the artists whose works are included in SENSE will be on site the night of the event to meet and mingle with guests. OddBall provides attendees the opportunity to experience the work on view before the crowds arrive on September 23rd.

In keeping with tradition, the annual fundraiser and gala will, once again, charm guests with extraordinary live performances and entertainment that is thought-provoking, novel, and curious. UICA embraces frivolity at the annual event and encourages guests to do the same.

“This event is a great way to celebrate absurdity and creativity.” Shared Miranda Krajniak, UICA’s Executive Director. “Often times people respond to contemporary art with “I don’t get it.” What better way to spark conversation and embrace the creative spirit than with a party and fundraiser supporting the arts that encourages self-expression and whimsy.”

The event is UICA’s signature fundraiser, and proceeds from the event support exhibitions, events, and programming year-round.

Krajniak continued, "OddBall is not only a really terrific party, it's also our annual fundraiser. Your ticket to the event supports UICA year-round and we want our guests and supporters to socialize, experience the art, and celebrate one of our largest exhibitions of the year. We are sincerely grateful for the support of our guests."

Guests can expect high-energy musical performances and entertainment by a variety of local and regional acts, as well as the first performance of Physical Arrangement for String Quartet which is one component of Sara Dittrich's and Benjamin Buchanan’s collaborative entry in UICA's ArtPrize Seven exhibition. Additional entertainment will be announced at a later date on UICA's website and Facebook. A cash bar and an elegant buffet of fine fare will also be provided that evening.

“The event is fun and, as the name suggests, odd.” Miranda Krajniak continued. “In many ways the event itself becomes something like performance art. It’s an evening not to be missed, and we’re excited to celebrate with the community.”

Tickets are oddly priced at $125.03 or $98.89 for UICA members, and are on sale now. Ticket price includes self-parking in the Gallery Ramp, one drink, a strolling buffet, and entertainment. For more information about OddBall, visit uica.org.

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