Bras for Life

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and this year area artists are stepping up and helping out with Bras for Life, a live-auction benefit to be held at Art League, Marco Island’s Center for the Arts on October 5. The preview reception starts at 5:30 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will go directly to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Southwest Florida.

Right now, as you read this, artists throughout the community are busy constructing, deconstructing, designing, and decorating women’s brassieres. All artists are encouraged to participate, but keeping quality standards at top notch will be the job of a distinguished juror.

Completed works are to be delivered to the Art League September 30.

Oh! And to sweeten the stock, Hollywood A-Lister, Annette Benning has graciously donated a lovely autographed pink bra for the event. Now there’s a Hooray for Hollywood!

Dave Rice, former professional football player and college coach, will play the brave position of auctioneer for the night. I caught up with Dave recently and asked about his comfort level tackling the sale of articles some still refer to as “unmentionables.” With a wide grin he assured me he was both ready and able to tender this load of lingerie. I swear there

was even a sparkle in his eye. Getting serious, Dave said he was honored to take part in such an important cause.

This inaugural Bras for Life is quickly becoming a true community event as local businesses also step in to contribute to its success. Marco Building Supply is assisting with display materials, and Hooters of Naples is donating tasty treats for the reception. (You have to love it!)

Bras for Life will coincide with Forme du Femme, a gallery exhibition celebrating the womanly form through art. The exhibit will run through the month of October. Contact the Art League for

more information, 394-4221.

More Art for Health news…

Blue Mangrove Gallery, in Marco’s Town Center, is offering Pink Empowerment Beads throughout the month of October. For each bead sold a donation of $11 will be made to the not-for-profit Breast Cancer Research Foundation. This is an international campaign among retailers. Empowerment Beads fit all add-a-bead bracelets. Contact Blue Mangrove at 393-2405.

Tara O’Neill has been an area resident since 1967. She holds a Bachelors Degree in Fine Arts from the University of South Florida, Tampa, and currently has a studio-gallery at the Artist Colony at the Esplanade on Marco Island. She can be contacted through her web site www.taraogallery.com.