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The Art of Elysium is gearing up for its 25th Anniversary Heaven Gala, a night that promises an unforgettable blend of creativity, glamour and heartfelt philanthropy delivered in signature style.
The Art of Elysium is a charity that connects artists with communities in need, with many programs designed to heal and inspire through art. Their goal is to encourage artists and communities to create positive change with their creativity. Each year, on the eve of the Golden Globe Awards, the charity hosts a spectacular fundraising event called "Heaven," where they honor the commitment of their volunteer artists whose dedication has had a profound impact on the communities they serve.
This year, the prestigious Spirit of Elysium Award will be bestowed upon Amy Smart and Carter Oosterhouse, two dedicated artists who have profoundly impacted the world through their artistic and charitable endeavors.
Additionally, the 2021 award will be retrospectively presented to Cara Santana, recognizing her tireless efforts in support of the Charity's mission during an unprecedented time of global pandemic.
A Legacy of Compassion and Creativity
Amy Smart, a beloved actress known for her roles in Just Friends and The Butterfly Effect, and Carter Oosterhouse, TV host and carpenter of Trading Spaces fame, form a duo whose contributions to entertainment are eclipsed only by their dedication to The Art of Elysium. Their work has touched the lives of children, veterans, and the homeless, bringing healing and joy through the arts.
"The Art of Elysium has been so incredible to work with over the years; they have changed the lives of thousands through all their programs," says Smart, reflecting on her years-long journey with the charity.
Carter Oosterhouse echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of caring for each other, "A gift, a smile, a hug, a laugh, or a friend can make the toughest days turn into the brightest weeks."
Celebrating a Creative Visionary
Neil Gaiman, an artist renowned for his explorations of humanity, fantasy and divinity, will serve as this year's Visionary, bringing his personal concept of "Heaven" to life in grand fashion. Gaiman's works, including Good Omens, American Gods and The Sandman, have captivated audiences worldwide, making him a fitting choice to craft an ethereal experience for the organization's 25th year celebrating the healing power of art.
"For me, Heaven is two things that are, perhaps, the same thing," says Gaiman. "Heaven is both a library, the place where we go for knowledge, wisdom, advice and for stories, and heaven is also a refuge, somewhere that we can go, whoever we are, for safety and protection."
The recently renovated historic Wiltern Theater will be transformed into Gaiman's vision of Heaven by his longtime collaborator Michael Ralph, the production designer of Good Omens and Anansi Boys.
A Tribute to Resilience and Service
The 25th Anniversary Heaven Gala will also honor Cara Santana, recipient of the 2021 Spirit of Elysium Award, whose unwavering support for The Art of Elysium embodies the spirit of service that the organization cherishes.
Founder of The Art of Elysium Jennifer Howell shared, "In honoring Cara for her beautiful work with The Art of Elysium, we also remember the times we have all come through and celebrate being together."
Stars Shining Their Light on the Cause
The gala is set to be a star-studded affair, with artists coming out to show their support for The Art of Elysium's critical work. Attendees include: Yetide Badaki, Lily Gladstone, Jon Hamm, Patton Oswalt and Shanola Hampton. Confirmed to attend and support on the night are also David Arquette, Rosanna Arquette, Camilla Belle, Rocco De Luca, Amanda & Shepard Fairey, Ashley & Topher Grace, Lydia Hearst & Chris Hardwick, Joe Manganiello, Anita & Mark Mothersbaugh, Christina Hendricks, Emma Rose Kenney, AJ Michalka, Aly Michalka, Kelly Osbourne, Rain Phoenix, Summer Phoenix, Puddles Pity Party, Autumn Rowe, Meredith Salenger, Jason Segel, Abigail Spencer, Michelle Trachtenberg, Jeremy Allen White, Jimmy Jean Louis, Zelda Williams, Alicia Witt, Caleb Landry Jones & Katya Zvereva, Evan Peters, Elijah Wood, Jimmy Jean Louis, Justin Bartha, Finola Hughes, Ali Larter & Hayes MacArthur.
Fisker, the luxury electric car company, joins as this year's automotive partner, adding an extra layer of eco-conscious glamor to the event.
As The Art of Elysium commemorates its 25th year, it stands as a testament to the power of art in healing and connecting communities. The selection of Amy Smart, Carter Oosterhouse and Cara Santana as award recipients highlights their unwavering commitment to making the world a better place through compassion, creativity, and philanthropy.
Learn More and Join the Cause
For those interested in attending or supporting the gala, additional information can be found at The Art of Elysium's official website.