Hours:
Tues-Sat 11am-5pm
Thurs 11am-7:30pm
Admission is free

In the Realms of the Unreal
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Cocktails: 6:30pm, Dinner: 7:30pm
Architectural Artifacts

Intuit : The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art will hold its Annual Benefit Gala on Saturday, October 20, 2007 with a theme intended to evoke fantasy, stimulate creative spirits, and foster a bevy of philanthropic interests.

Known for its innovative programs, cutting edge exhibitions, and unique approaches to entertainment in conjunction with art, Intuit presents “In the Realms of the Unreal” to be held at Architectural Artifacts, located at 4325 North Ravenswood in Chicago. The evening begins at 6:30 pm with cocktails and a silent auction, followed by a 7:30 pm dinner and a live auction with auctioneer Aaron Freeman. Throughout the evening’s activities the catered event will offer up special indulgences for patrons. Intuit’s Annual Benefit Gala provides major support through funds for its collection, educational programs, publications, and acclaimed exhibitions.

The fundraising event will feature innovative interpretations of Chicago Outsider Artist Henry Darger’s monumental works discovered in his Lincoln Park apartment after his death in 1973. Inspired by Darger’s cacophony of characters, a fantasy theme will transport Intuit friends and supporters through the mystery that was Henry Darger – incorporating violence and sexuality. The event promises to be artistically inventive, highly creative, wholly sensory, and wildly entertaining.

“You might say this year’s benefit is like, ‘A Night Out with Henry, and the Girls,’ ” Intuit’s director Cleo Wilson stated. “The Annual Benefit Gala is always one of Intuit’s most popular and well-attended events. There are some delightful surprises in store for those who will be joining us at this year’s event . We’ve even heard that a few appearances by some art celebrities may also be in store.” Wilson urged people to reserve tickets early, as capacity is limited. Tickets are available solely on a first-come, first-serve basis, and are available now by contacting Intuit (tel. 312.243.9088).

Design and theme cues will be drawn from a jettisoned journey into the secret fantasy world of Henry Darger, according to Ralph Concepcion, Development Committee Chairperson and board member for Intuit, one of the masterminds behind the planning for the event. According to Concepcion, “The Gala will be sort of ‘otherworldly.’” Live music will be provided by Mucca Pazza and Little Red & The Hoods, who for the occasion have renamed themselves the Vivian Girls, referring to Darger’s epic story which pitted an army of children led by seven princesses he called the “Vivian Girls.” There are also some fabulous auction items including a deluxe Mayan vacation, tickets to the Playboy Super Bowl party and many highly collectible works of art which can be previewed here.

Long-time supporters of Intuit, John and Dorianne Venator, will preside as honorary hosts and co-chairpersons for the Benefit Gala event. Mr. Venator is the president and CEO of CompTIA, the Computing Technology Industry Association, a leading trade association representing business interests of global information technology and the IT industry.

View auction items here.