What’s better than an evening of local art? Pair the artists with mixologists for a truly unique experience!
More than 150 guests enjoyed Magnolia Art Xchange (MAX)’s first fundraising event at the newly opened art incubator in Ocala’s historic Union Station on Thursday, November 7.
“Rotary Clubs of Marion County hosted with MAX to provide this celebration of the rebirth of this historic space, the power of visual art, and how it influences and inspires mixology and the culinary arts,” says Karen Hatch, president of Ocala Brick City Rotary Club, explaining that Rotary’s vision is to “see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change—across the globe, in our communities… and in ourselves.”
“We had a great time,” featured artist Maggie Weakley says of her live acrylic pour demonstrations. “I had the guests choose the colors, which made for some amazing pieces.”
Featured local artists Justin Alsedek, Juan Carlos Cahue, Carmen Rojas Gines, Jordan Shapot and Weakley exhibited their original paintings, sculpture and jewelry, which inspired creative twists on the classic cocktail by local mixologists Donny Edwards from the Braised Onion, Ben Payne from Pi on Broadway, Patrice Perron from La Cuisine, Deep Singh from Stella’s Modern Pantry and Adam Volpe from Infinite Ale Works.
Guests enjoyed live music by Left on Broadway and petite eats by La Casella Catering. Proceeds from the event support MAX and its mission to further visual artists’ creativity and professionalism; to be a collaborative resource hub for artists, educators and art enthusiasts; and to dramatically expand the cultural presence in Ocala. For more information about MAX, visit www.maxocala.org.
