Supporters of the Arts convened at the Center for Visual & Performing Arts on June 7, 2024, for an enchanting evening of fundraising and philanthropy. The 31st Annual Beaux Arts Ball, titled “Pollock Goes to Prom” invited attendees to embrace the timeless charm of prom attire from various decades or to draw inspiration from the renowned artist Jackson Pollock. The event proved to be an unparalleled success, raising over $200,000 in support of Arts Education in our Region.

The venue was a fusion of artistic expression and timeless elegance, with table covers adorned in splatter paint reminiscent of Jackson Pollock’s iconic style. Handmade centerpieces further accentuated the artistic ambiance, while guests embraced the theme with enthusiasm, blending classic prom attire with avant-garde flair inspired by Pollock’s legacy.

As South Shore Arts’ premier fundraising event, the Beaux Arts Ball continues to play a pivotal role in funding the everykid art education programs. 

Thanks to the Beaux Arts Ball, the everykid programs provide accessible arts education to children and youth across the region at no cost, reaching many participants through partnerships with over 40 organizations and municipalities. Since its inception in 1995, the Ball’s success has empowered South Shore Arts to enrich the lives of countless members of our community.

The auction presented an extensive selection of over one hundred fifty items, offering guests a diverse range of coveted treasures. With the utilization of a user-friendly mobile platform, attendees seamlessly engaged in the auction directly from their smartphones, fostering heightened interactivity and participation. Throughout the evening, guests were treated to delightful entertainment, including the opportunity to capture cherished memories at the photo booth. Attendees reveled in the festive atmosphere and indulged in creating lasting mementos with friends and loved ones. 

We would like to express deep gratitude and congratulations to everyone who contributed to the success of the evening: our board members, attendees, committee, community of donors, and staff. An extra special thanks to the three co-chair committee members, Joanne Iwama, Ashley Halpern, and Amanda Panaggio .  

Ben, Emma, Ann & David Bochnowski, Julia & David Kwait

South Shore Arts took pride in acknowledging The Bochnowski Family and Peoples Bank, for their decades of support as our 2024 Patrons of the Year. The Bochnowski family has made significant contributions to the arts in Northwest Indiana, fostering a cultural environment that enriches the lives of residents and supports local artists. The family shares a passion for the arts and regards art education as instrumental to the community’s growth. 

The Bochnowskis have a strong connection to Northwest Indiana, with David Bochnowski’s family roots originating from East Chicago. Both David and Ann Bochnowski advocate for children’s programs provided by the South Shore Arts, as many schools have diminished their focus on arts education over the past few decades. The Bochnowskis believe that art not only improves the quality of life in Northwest Indiana but also provides a critical outlet for self-expression and personal growth, especially for children who might struggle to fit in elsewhere. This belief is further supported by their continued support of South Shore Arts’ efforts to distribute grants and promote local artists. 

Please save the date for the 32nd Annual Beaux Arts Ball on June 6, 2025. It’s sure to be a memorable evening in celebration of Arts Education that you won’t want to miss!