Martini's + Matisse 2012 Gala

Guests arriving at Martini + Matisse Gala
Martini's + Matisse annual Gala is a much anticipated soiree.  The extravagent generosity of artists, restaurants, services, designers, administrators  and people of enormous talent who tirelessly combine their creativity to create an evening that rivals the Hollywood Awards.


Arriving courtyard at Frank Crum Building in Clearwater Florida is truly magical.

This year, was a sold out event and  attended by some 800 guests, primarly in the medical profession.  More than one hundred artists donate  art, which is carefully juried.  The inaugural event, some years ago,  showcased  " Featured Artist"  Sophie Matisse, the great grand daughter of French painter Henri Matisse.
Sophie's abstract painting was in high demand that evening.  We had the pleasure of meeting Sophie, who in her humble manner, complimented our art by saying "someday I hope to paint as good as you"  (our paintings hang behind Mary Rose)

Mary Rose Holmes, Helen Tilston and Sophie Matisse

Artists:  Helen Tilston, Mary Rose Holms and Violetta Chandler
Artists with Planner Extraordinaire Susan Murbach
Phyllis and Katherine Schene
Clearwater Florida Free Clinic 
This Gala benefits the uninsured in our local society.  The event is $150. per person.  Each guest received 3 tickets which they put in a large martini glass beside the painting they wish to win.  At 9.15 a selecting committee choses a winner from the martini glass.  To be eligible for the painting by the featured artist one must purchase tickets for $50. each.  Our glass overflowed with tickets, thank you and Clearwater Free Clinic also thanks you.


Sixteen of the finest local restaurants served delectable dishes
The "shakers" extreme martini shakers!!
Famous Chef Scott from Guppy's Restaurant and his helpers
E & E Steakout carving their famous roast beef
Candied Bacon - absolutely delicious
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Fashion, Friendship, Fusion, Feasting Fun and fellowship continued till late
Ron Chandler, Mike Tilston and Dwight Holmes
Connie Stafford and guests
Will Cooper Performs
Kim, Ray, Stan & Carol Orr
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Honest, we did not inhale
Violetta Chandler and Mary Rose Holmes enjoying desert, coffee and yes, Ybor City cigars

The winner of "Let's Sail Away" triptych was:  Dr. Kimberly Quick.
And until our next Martini's + Matisse Gala, Good Night, God Bless and good health to all.



All photos by Helen Tilston - Photo w/Sophie Matisse by Mike Tilston


Do you enjoy formal occasions such as this?

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