In honor of the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s (MKAF) 25-year historical journey, the popular Arts Guild Luncheon titled “Love for the Arts” returns on Feb. 19, 2020. Hosted at the Emerald Grande, Emerald Ballroom from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., the Arts Guild Luncheon will feature acclaimed guest speaker, Wendy Rodrigue, presenting “The Life & Legacy Tour of George Rodrigue.” This MKAF event is sponsored in part by the Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village.
Award-winning public speaker, author, and art historian, Wendy Rodrigue, is a native of Fort Walton Beach. Since 1991, Wendy’s work, has been to share and celebrate her late husband’s life and art in as quality and broad a manner as possible. George and Wendy partnered on the development of all aspects of his career and life, including his galleries, museum exhibitions, a dozen books published both nationally and internationally on his art, and extensive education outreach. Wendy now continues this tradition with Life & Legacy, honoring one of America’s most important artists, George Rodrigue.
The George Rodrigue Life & Legacy Program inspires audiences with the life and art of George Rodrigue (1944-2013), explaining his vision by showing how one person can overcome obstacles to achieve their dreams, while also making a positive difference in the world. Within each piece of Rodrigue’s artwork, audiences will find common elements, including the distinctive Rodrigue Oak, the Cajun people, the “famed” Blue Dog as well as flowers, suns, butterflies and even hurricanes. The enlightening program will feature many works from Rodrigue’s private collection.
George and Wendy enjoyed a long partnership with MKAF. Together they brought unique art experiences to many Florida Panhandle schools, a form of outreach that Wendy continues today. “Bringing back the Arts Guild Luncheon is an exciting initiative as part of our 25th Anniversary celebration,” said MKAF CEO Marcia Hull. “We believe this program will be engaging for all ages and look forward to welcoming back members who have fallen out of touch with MKAF over the years as well as welcome many new faces including young professionals and winter guests.”
Tickets are available online at MKAF Love for the Arts Guild Luncheon at $40 per person for MKAF Members and $50 per person for non-members. Space is limited and tables and sponsorships are available. For more information on how to join the MKAF 25th season as a member, please visit the Foundation’s website at www.MKAF.org or call (850) 650-2226.
The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) is a non-profit member and volunteer organization that has inspired over 320,000 children in over 70 schools, and United Way agencies including children with special needs and wounded warriors. For more information on MKAF events, community outreach program, volunteering or investing in the arts, visit online at www.MKAF.org or call (850) 650-2226 to get involved.
