In honor of the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s (MKAF) 25-year historical journey, the popular Arts Guild Luncheon titled “Love for the Arts” returns on February 19, 2020. Hosted at the Emerald Grande, Emerald Ballroom in Destin, Florida, from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., the Arts Guild Luncheon will feature acclaimed guest speaker, Wendy Rodrigue, presenting “The Life & Legacy Tour of George Rodrigue.”
“The Life & Legacy Tour of George Rodrigue”
With special guest, Wendy Rodrigue
Hosted by the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation in celebration of their 25th anniversary
Wed, Feb. 19, 2020
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Tickets: $40 MKAF members, $50 non-members
Purchase here
The Life & Legacy Foundation honors Wendy’s late husband, artist George Rodrigue (1944-2013), explaining his vision by showing how one person can overcome obstacles to achieve their dreams, while also making a positive difference in the world. Within each piece of Rodrigue’s artwork, audiences will find common elements, including the distinctive Rodrigue Oak, the Cajun people, the “famed” Blue Dog as well as flowers, suns, butterflies, and even hurricanes. This enlightening and ‘unplugged’ program will feature original paintings from Rodrigue’s private collection.
George and Wendy enjoyed a long partnership with MKAF. Together they brought unique art experiences to many Florida Panhandle schools —a form of outreach that Wendy continues today.
“Bringing back the Arts Guild Luncheon is an exciting initiative as part of our 25th Anniversary celebration,” said MKAF CEO Marcia Hull. “We believe this program will be engaging for all ages and look forward to welcoming back members who have fallen out of touch with MKAF over the years as well as welcome many new faces including young professionals and winter guests.”
About the Guest Speaker: Wendy Rodrigue
Award-winning public speaker, author, and art historian, Wendy Rodrigue is a native of Fort Walton Beach. Since 1991, Wendy’s work has been to share and celebrate her late husband’s life and art in as quality and broad a manner as possible. George and Wendy partnered on the development of all aspects of his career and life, including his galleries, museum exhibitions, a dozen books published both nationally and internationally on his art, and extensive education outreach. Wendy now continues this tradition with her Life & Legacy Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization honoring one of America’s most important artists, George Rodrigue. Learn more- www.legacyarttour.org