The center court of the original Wellington Mall was taken over on the afternoon of Saturday, May 7 to introduce more than two dozen talented artists to the western communities of Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, Loxahatchee and The Acreage. The event was coordinated by Portada Gallery and featured well-known artists as well as new talents.
Community leader Jess Santamaria was recognized with an original creation by the internationally acclaimed artist Rafael Montilla. Santamaria’s words of commitment to continue contributing to the betterment of art and education were highly appreciated by the artists and the audience.
The Forza Stefano Charitable Foundation received proceeds from this effort to support its continued work helping teenagers stricken with problems that dramatically cut short their lives, as well as transforming the lives of their families. The money will help Forza Stefano continue to expand. Tamara Roth, president of the foundation, created in memory of her son Stefano, explained that among the many ways the foundation achieves its mission is through scholarships to cancer survivors; providing sports equipment; payment of medical expenses as well as funeral costs if there is an unfortunate outcome; providing assistance to families and caregivers; supplying books, tablets, headphones and games for lengthy hospital stays; and many more creative ways to help the needs of these patients. For details, visit www.forzastefano.org.
The participating artists were there to greet and meet visitors and were available to introduce young people to the wonderful world of art and to share with the adults their techniques and inspirations. Among the artists present that afternoon were: William Alonso, Richard Bello, Nancy Bisquerra, Cecilia Byrne, Teresa Cabello, Andrea Ciatti, Mario Ciceron, Fefi Garcia, Barbara Gonzalez, Patricia Giovanzani, Douglas Gil, Mery Guerrero, Victor Guido, Asdrubal Marot, Rafael Montilla, Lucia Morales, Silvia Parra, Alex Pineco, Raida Madriz, Oscar Rojas, Elizabeth Rossel and Tony SoHo.
A similar event is planned for January 2023. Details will be announced in the near future.
