Artists Use All Their Senses To Benefit Kate Winslett's Autism Charity: Golden Hat Foundation

A Kansas City gallery, Buttonwood Art Space, aims to raise awareness of autism and its rising numbers in the U.S.A. through artworks exploring textures, visual and sensory expressions. Net sales will benefit an international charity, Golden Hat Foundation, started by actress Kate Winslett. Smart phone accessible audio recordings accompany each artwork adding another dimension to the works. End Quote

We are hoping the art selections in "Sensory Overload" will communicate in unique ways and on many levels, says Gallery Manager, Kathy Drungilas.

Kansas City, MO-KS (1888PressRelease) February 12, 2014 - Local mid-town art gallery, Buttonwood Art Space, will host "Sensory Overload", an art show February 7 - March 28, 2014. Buttonwood, located at 3013 Main Street, Kansas City, MO 64108, announces in conjunction with the exhibit, a First Friday Art Evening March 7th, 2014 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. "This show, our focus is on the 1 in 55 children with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States, many of whom find normal social communication difficult. The Sensory Overload exhibition features artworks created to explore textures, visual and sensory expression. We are hoping the art selections will communicate in unique ways and on many levels, says Gallery Manager, Kathy Drungilas."

Net sales will benefit The Golden Hat Foundation (goldenhatfoundation.org), an international charity founded by actress Kate Winslett committed to honoring the intellectual capabilities of those challenged with autism. A representative from the foundation will attend the event and share their mission. Several pieces in the gallery have been created by individuals with autism, including Iris Grace, a four-year old artist from Britain. Iris Grace has extraordinary, impressionistic art skills. Her website is www.IrisGracePainting.com.

There will be several works by featured artist Jennifer Maestre, well-known on the East Coast as a sculptor working with colored pencils, (www.JenniferMaestre.com); video pieces by Turkish artist, Erdal Inci, sculpture by Jim Adams along with many local and regional artists. The First Friday Reception will give visitors an opportunity meet local artists, see and experience stimulating artworks, create artwork and includes a silent auction of selected works by autistic students from Shawnee Mission South, Iris Grace canvas prints and other items and art.

Pre-event art purchases are encouraged may be arranged by contacting the gallery. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm or by appointment 816-285-9040.

In conjunction with the reception, a 6:00 PM Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will celebrate the recent expansion of Buttonwood's office and gallery space. An additional 3,500 square feet has been added with the acquisition and improvement of the former EB Bar. Complimentary appetizers, wine and beer, free parking is available on street and r!kc parking lot across from the gallery.

Buttonwood Art Space was founded by Jon and Wendy McGraw as longtime supporters of the arts in Kansas City and owners of Buttonwood Financial Group, which underwrites the Art Space. The McGraw's purchased the Buttonwood building in 2005 to house their wealth management financial advising firm, and opened the gallery as a place for local and regional artists to exhibit and sell their works.

http://www.buttonwoodartspace.com

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