Blooming Art 2009

Photo Gallery

Despite the autumn rain, more than 500 people huddled under a big-top tent to cheer on young actors, musicians, and artists at Blooming Art 2009. For this fifth annual garden party event, Swanee Hunt and Charles Ansbacher opened their home to showcase 28 outstanding youth arts organizations, all affiliated with ARTWorks for Kids, a program of Hunt Alternatives Fund.  

At the event’s start, lion dancers from the Revolving Museum led guests in a vibrant parade through the backyard. Collaborative performances demonstrated the collective strength of area youth arts groups. The Boston Children’s Chorus’ Young Men’s Ensemble sang an original work composed by a From the Top alumnus. Teen musicians from the Community Music Center of Boston harmonized with elementary school-age string players from Conservatory Lab Charter School as Boston Arts Academy painters improvised on canvas to the classical music. The UMass Lowell String Project and Boston Arts Academy percussionists played a Venezuelan tune that sent the crowd dancing from their seats.

Brian Potts, steward of the Margaret Stewart Lindsay Foundation, which contributed to a matching pool of funds, encouraged guests to give generously in honor of Margaret’s legacy. Margaret’s resilient spirit inspired the Outstanding Student Leader Award, which was presented to two young actors: TJ Williams from City Stage Company and Logan Ferraro from The Theater Offensive. Zariya Miller, a young musician from Conservatory Lab Charter School, received an Outstanding Leader To-Be Award. Their stories of courage moved proud family and friends to tears.

Public officials showed support for the arts organizations for service to their communities. Cambridge Mayor Denise Simmons presented Swanee and Charles with keys to the city. Cambridge City Councilor Henrietta Davis announced a city proclamation recognizing Blooming Art’s contribution to the community. Boston Public Schools Superintendent Carol Johnson and State Representative Marie St. Fleur connected with groups that provide outstanding programs in and after school. As staff, students, and donors chatted about the impact of programs, the garden was animated by performances, art activities, and stunning displays of youth artwork.

By ZUMIX’s final drumbeat of the afternoon, donors had given $410,000 in gifts and pledges. When the final gift tally is complete, Blooming Art 2009 will have garnered more than $2 million, the most from any showcase yet!

Check out the event program!