Arts at Twilight Transports Guests to Italy in Downtown Duluth

Through décor, flowers and food, the Duluth Fine Arts League brought Italy to downtown for iit fifth annual “Arts at Twilight” gala.

The 250 guests entered the patio of Ken Hardeman Fine Art Glass Studio decorated with classic architectural elements, a fountain, sculpted topiaries, and huge vases of roses for cocktails.

Tables lit with votives were set up outside for guests to dine on selections from a buffet of specialty pizza, salads, antipasto, sliced roast and turkey, crusty rolls, and traditional Italian desserts displayed inside the studio.

"A Tour of Italy” also featured a silent auction of gift baskets, art, wine, and jewelry. Musicians and a painter demonstrated performing and visual arts.

Liz Simpson was the highest bidder on a necklace of pearls and smoky quartz beads accented with an Italian cameo valued at $1,450 donated by the Duluth-based Gem Shopping Network. 

Given away in drawings at the end of the evening were a painting by Melissa Sellars won by Ralph Mumme, a magnum of wine valued at $135 won by Billy Jones, and glass artwork by Cher Thompson Austin valued at $1,300 won by Mary Ellen Sullivan.

As much fun as the event turned out to be for guests, it was more than just a social occasion. Proceeds will be used by DFAL to provide college scholarships for local high school seniors planning to major in fine arts.

DFAL President Kay Montgomery announced that it gave $5,000 in scholarships to three winners this year. She reported later that the July 20 event had raised about $6,500.

The organization was founded in 2008 by Duluth Mayor Nancy Harris and now has 70 members, Montgomery said. DFAL sponsors fall and spring First Friday Art Walks downtown and a tour of artist homes. “We’re going to help the city create more art downtown,” she said.

Montgomery recognized Larry Larsen from Proof of the Pudding for catering the event, Ken Hardeman for providing a site for it, Melanie Sheldon and Trish Land for doing the decorations, and sponsors. 

The City of Duluth was among sponsors of the event.