New logo and ‘arts for all’ focus unveiled at Vicksburg Arts Gala

VICKSBURG, MI — The Vicksburg Arts Gala and Fundraising Auction, held on November 1, 2024, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM, was a celebration of creativity, community, and the future of arts education in Vicksburg. The event brought together artists, patrons, and supporters to raise funds for new and expanding arts programming with the intention to inspire, educate, and engage the community.

Vicksburg Arts is renowned for artist features and interactive activities during the village’s Burg Days of Summer, where music, food, and festivities fill the streets, uniting the town in a joyful celebration.

Additionally, their Art of Nature camp offers Vicksburg youth a creative experience in an outdoor setting, with activities ranging from dance and music to glassblowing and murals. These programs connect youth, counselors, and teaching artists with nature and the community while nurturing their creativity.

The elegant gala, emceed by Jake Munson — known affectionately as “Ranger Jake” at camp — featured fabulously dressed patrons, a delectable multi-course dinner catered by Lou’s Market and Deli, and served by young adult volunteers from Vicksburg Arts programs dressed in their finest attire. 

The evening included performances, drinks by Kalamazoo Mobile Bar Co., stunning decorations by Oopsy Daisy, and an exciting auction led by beloved former Executive Director Alisha Siebers, who served as the auctioneer.

During the event, the organization unveiled its new logo and official title, “Vicksburg Arts,” replacing the former “Vicksburg Cultural Arts Center.” The rebranding emphasizes a straightforward, professional, and business-focused aesthetic, reflecting the organization’s strategic priorities for the future.

The highlight of auction sales was the “J&J Dinner Party,” a service provided by two Vicksburg residents who offer lavish house calls complete with food and drinks, showcasing the community’s hands-on dedication to supporting Vicksburg Arts. Other notable auction items included original artwork, a winter/spring vacation to Traverse City, art supplies, handmade goods, and unique experiences such as spa treatments and etiquette lessons, all generously donated to further the organization’s mission.

The evening concluded with a heartfelt acknowledgment of Executive Director Syd Bastos, who is transitioning out of her role after nine years with the organization. Bastos reflected on the future of Vicksburg Arts.

“The future expansion of Vicksburg Arts in terms of arts for all is going to be very impactful, and there’s a lot of excitement that shows us this is the right direction for our community today,” Bastos says.

New programs for the community

The funds raised during the auction will support Vicksburg Arts’ expanding initiatives as they launch a Youth Advisory Board to ensure youth voices have equal influence as the organization grows and to implement programming specific to neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs to further enhance accessibility to the Art of Nature camp. 

These efforts align with Vicksburg Arts’ mission statement, which states that it aims to create a culture of belonging where everyone, regardless of background or ability, can engage with the arts.

The gala marked a significant milestone for Vicksburg Arts as the organization continues its rebranding journey and broadens its impact on the Vicksburg creative community. With the support of dedicated community members, Vicksburg Arts is ready to expand opportunities for artists and strengthen the arts market in Southwest Michigan.