Radical media, politics and culture.

ABC No Rio Building Fund Benefit Auction October 22nd

BENEFIT AUCTION FOR ABC NO RIO FUNDRAISING PUSH FOR NO RIO'S BUILDING FUND

WILL BE HELD AT THE ANGEL ORENSANZ FOUNDATION FOR THE ARTS WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 22, 2008 / 7-10PM

Who: For almost 30 years, ABC No Rio has been a vibrant part of New York City's radical cultural scene. It is an open venue for emerging artists, internationally known for its commitment to a socially engaged culture. No Rio has meant many things to many people, but its mission remains constant: a commitment to political and social engagement, to an expanded vision of possibility for the lives of our neighborhoods, cities, and societies, to a place where people share resources and ideas to impact society, culture, and community. This benefit will allow this tradition to continue and flourish.

What: The gala will include a benefit auction of 60 works by Jacob Hashimoto, Lady Pink, Shirin Neshat, Claes Oldenburg, Tom Otterness, Kembra Pfahler, Andres Serrano, Kiki Smith, Chris Stain, Swoon and many others.  (Visit www.abcnorio.org/benefit2008 for a comprehensive list of artists and committee members).

The Lower East Side's patron saint of the uncool, Reverend Jen, will host the gala as Master of Ceremonies.  The event will feature burlesque performances by Aurora Boob Realis, Boobie von Trapp, and Jezebel Express. The Hungry March Band will punctuate the evening with brass and drum beats.

For more information please visit ABC No Rio website: http://www.abcnorio.org/benefit2008.

Ticket prices begin at $75.

No Rio is supported by local galleries that contribute to the revival of the downtown art scene.  Some of them include Rivington Arms, Sloan Fine Art, Participant Inc., Thrust Projects and SUNDAY L.E.S. Gallery.  Other noteworthy committee members include the principals of Ad Hoc Art, Center for Books Arts, Franklin Furnace and Jonathan LeVine Gallery.

When: Wednesday October 22, 2008.  Doors open at 7:00 PM and close at 10:00 PM.

Where: The Angel Orensanz Foundation for the Arts is located at 172 Norfolk Street between Houston and Stanton Street in the Lower East Side Metro:  F to 2nd Avenue, J, M, Z, to Essex Street, F to Delancey Street

For more information please visit ABC No Rio website: http://www.abcnorio.org/benefit2008.

Media Contact: Steven Englander, 212.254.3697 ext. 13, steven@abcnorio.org

Image courtesy of Chris Stain and AD HOC ART:  "Shorty", 2008 / stencil and hand painting on steel panel / 12" x 7.75" / Estimated Value: $700-$1,000