CARC Holds Annual “Art For AIDS”

ArtSpace was the place and AIDS the beneficiary at the CT AIDS Resource Coalition’s annual “Art for AIDS” fundraiser Saturday, a creative cocktail party benefiting the Richard B. Fried fund.

And who better than to be in the midst of the party than Fried’s brother, Joel Fried, once upon a time a fixture at Connecticut parties but who has moved on to mingle mostly in Manhattan.

“I wouldn’t miss this,” said Fried who was not only celebrating the fundraiser but also daughter Nicole Archambault’s 30^th birthday.

Dozens of artists donated small painted canvases for the art grab that was the centerpiece of the evening, with several also displaying larger pieces for sale.  

For artist H.L.Groen, better known as Hartford art teacher Heather Groenstein, the event was extra special. Her piece,  an acrylic wrapped bust titled “Health Is A Relationship” was the first sale of the evening.

“This is so exciting,” she said posing for a picture with the bust purchased for $675.

Also doing some celebrating was artist Rick Bach, who has volunteered to be project manager for the upcoming “Mosaic New Britain” project. Between June 21 and 23, 48 artists will spend 48 hours creating a 48-foot mosaic on the New Britain YMCA on High Street.

Working with Central Connecticut State University, Hannah Hurwitz of AmericaCorp Vista and several community groups, the art project will feature a mosaic timeline of New Britain industry and industrialists.

“It’s about creating public art for the community,” said Hurwitz about the project that is being underwritten with grants, donations and volunteer effort.

Emcee for the event was former WTNH weather guy Matt Scott, who arrived with Shelly Sindland, who does public relations and photography work these days. The two have been spotted out together a few times in recent weeks, prompting a quick explanation when asked.

“We have the same things in common,” said the blushing Scott. “We are both single parents with kids.”

And in case you missed the art buying fun, stop by Tuesday night beginning at 5. There is still art for sale! ArtSpace is at 555 Asylum Ave.