Arts Umbrella Splash Raises Over $540,000 for Youth Arts Education

On Saturday, October 14, one of the most anticipated events of the season returned for its 35th year with a big splash! Arts Umbrella's Splash art auction and gala showcased nearly 100 works by prominent B.C. artists, and raised a record-breaking $540,000 in net proceeds to help make high-quality arts education accessible for young people in British Columbia.

Every year, Arts Umbrella, Canada's leading non-profit arts organization for young people hosts a gala and coveted art auction where they can meet acclaimed local and international artists and fellow art lovers while browsing and bidding for original pieces. Celebrating the 35th anniversary, Splash was held at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and once again attracted over 500 business and community leaders, patrons and art aficionados.

"With a record-breaking art auction, this was a landmark evening for Arts Umbrella," says Paul Larocque, president & CEO of Arts Umbrella. "We are truly honoured by the generosity of our community, including the many extraordinary artists who gave their very best to support our mission to help young people explore their potential through the arts."


Gala emcees Fred Lee and Gloria Macarenko
The spectacular event was co-chaired by Christie Darbyshire and Bruce Munro Wright, emceed by Gloria Macarenko and Fred Lee, and throughout the night attendees were treated to dynamic performances by the Arts Umbrella Dance Company and Pre-Professional Theatre Students. The evening was anchored by a live auction led by Canadian multidisciplinary artist, curator and cultural leader Hank Bull. Immediately following the auction, guests were treated to a lively afterparty set to the musical stylings of DJ Chloe.

Splash was made possible through the generous support of presenting sponsor TD Bank Group. Arts Umbrella was also pleased to partner with luxury jewellery brand David Yurman, which donated a stunning signature raffle piece.


Canadian sculptor Marie Khouri and Scottie Dunn
Arts Umbrella believes art can change the lives of young people in profound ways, which is why the not-for-profit has opened the doors for all kids ages 2 to 22 to find and explore their artistic voices, regardless of their socio-econonic status. More than 20,000 students discover the magic each year, with more than two thirds participating at little to no cost to their families. Since Splash was introduced in 1983, Arts Umbrella's largest annual fundraiser has raised over $6 million in net proceeds, all of which supports youth-oriented initiatives, including free community programming, scholarships and bursaries.

For more information, visit Artsumbrella.com.

About Arts Umbrella
Art can change the lives of children in incredible ways, which is why Arts Umbrella helps young artists cultivate creativity and grow self-confidence through dance, theatre and visual arts. Since 1979, the not-for-profit has opened the doors for all kids ages 2 to 22 to find and explore their artistic voices. More than 20,000 students discover the magic each year, with more than half participating at little to no cost to their families.