Renowned artist Borbay will be showcasing his talent at the University of Wyoming Art Museum’s benefit gala on May 18. The event, titled “A Hat Ball,” will commemorate the museum’s 50th anniversary with an evening of Western elegance at the Marian H. Rochelle Gateway Center.
The gala will kick off at 6 p.m. with a social hour and a silent auction. Dinner and a program are set to begin at 8 p.m., followed by a live auction featuring art and vacation packages. Attendees can also look forward to dancing to music by The Munsick Boys, winners of a 2023 Wyoming Governor’s Arts Award.
The highlight of the evening will be Borbay’s live painting performance, where guests can witness the creation of a unique piece inspired by the Western landscape and culture celebrated by the museum. The painting will showcase the iconic neon sign from the Thunderbird Lodge in Laramie and will be available for bidding during the live auction.
Known for his distinctive style that combines location painting, portraiture, and collage techniques, Borbay’s work has garnered attention from prominent figures in the art world. Nicole Crawford, director of the UW Art Museum, expresses excitement about having Borbay share his talent with the community at this special event.
The museum’s benefit gala is an annual fundraiser that supports programs serving Wyoming’s communities, teachers, students, and visitors. Contributions, including proceeds from the gala, play a crucial role in the museum’s operations, with over 50% of the annual budget coming from private donations. In addition to exhibitions and collection expansion, the museum’s education initiatives focus on developing critical thinking skills and promoting collaboration among students.
Tickets for the gala are available until May 4, and more information can be found on the museum’s website. The UW Art Museum, located at the Centennial Complex in Laramie, aims to engage diverse communities by showcasing visual culture from around the world. Admission is free, and the museum is open Tuesdays through Saturdays.
For further details, interested individuals can contact (307) 766-6622, visit the museum’s website, or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
