MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – The Meridian Museum of Art welcomed community members Thursday evening for ARTinis, its signature annual fundraiser, celebrating local art, creativity and a unique piece of the museum’s history.
Held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on June 18 at the museum, this year’s event featured the theme “Channeling Phyllis Diller,” honoring the legendary comedian’s appearance at Meridian’s Temple Theatre 54 years ago during a museum-sponsored event.
“We call it our signature annual fundraiser because it’s really the only fundraiser we do throughout the year,” said Caleb Phillips, deputy director of the Meridian Museum of Art.
The fundraiser supports the museum’s exhibitions, educational programs and community outreach initiatives. A highlight of the evening was the silent auction featuring original 8-by-8-inch artworks donated by local and regional artists.
“We auction off 8×8 artwork by local artists. It’s a great event for people to come out and have some fun, enjoy some friendly competition and get some local art,” Phillips said.
More than 50 original works were available for bidding, with pieces ranging from traditional landscapes and watercolors to martini-themed creations and imaginative portraits inspired by Diller.
Phillips said the theme was chosen not only to celebrate Diller’s creativity and individuality but also to recognize her connection to the museum.
“The theme is Channeling Phyllis Diller. We’re celebrating the 54th anniversary of her visit to Meridian. She went to the Temple Theatre as part of an art museum sponsored event,” Phillips said.
Adding to the evening’s festivities was a special auction item tied directly to the comedian.
“We found a vintage dress owned and worn by Phyllis Diller online, and we’re auctioning that off. It comes with a certificate of authenticity. We’re hoping to get into the theme and raise a little bit more money,” Phillips said.
Guests enjoyed food, drinks and an opportunity to meet local artists while supporting the museum’s mission.
“I really hope people have fun. We want to support the museum of course, but we really want people to have fun and meet local artists,” Phillips said.
The Meridian Museum of Art, located at 628 25th Ave., hosts exhibitions, art classes and outreach programs that serve thousands of individuals each year.
For more information about the museum and opportunities to get involved, visit meridianmuseum.org.
