The Art Effect

We had a sensational night at Art After Dark 2024 in the Trolley Barn on Friday November 15. Guests mingled under starry lighting and took in the last moments of The Duo Show’s time in the gallery. Spettro passed delicious hors d’oeuvres, including an amazing Ricotta & Grape Crostini, while guests waited in line to get the Vassar Violet Bloom signature drink, a blend of Tito’s, butterfly pea flower tea, ginger, and lemon. For the younger crowd and the alcohol-free, the mocktail mimicked the same magical effect, where the blue butterfly pea flower tea turned purple with the splash of lemonade mixing in. 

Especially heartwarming were the speeches from the night’s honorees and the individuals introducing them. Franky Perez had a surprise reunion with Alumni Honoree and mentee Hezues R. Tahleeya Raphael introduced Karmen Smallwood with an anecdote that reminded us of how deep and long-standing Karmen’s commitment to the youth of the city of Poughkeepsie has been. And Mary Ellen got the room on its feet as we all stood together to acknowledge the widespread impact that honoree Dutchess Community College has on our community.

Marielena Ferrer helped guests develop a deeper understanding of the themes behind her work as they tore butterflies from tissue paper to join future iterations of her installation. YAEZ Curators guided attendees in engaging with Kimmah Dennis’ work through polaroid photos and chalk interactions. Young and young-at-heart alike delighted in helping us fill our chalk photo booth wall.

This event was also host to a couple monumental firsts! Staff member, Sarah Taylor, hosted Art After Dark’s first Paddle Raise for donations and by the end of the night we had raised over $9,000 dollars. Board Member and longtime friend of The Art Effect David Bloom and his wife Beverly Kaufman who were unable to attend, raised their hand remotely to give a $500, along with a few others who called in to participate with the paddle raise remotely.