UNCF’S “A MIND IS…” GALA FEATURES THE ARTWORK OF KUDZAI B. MUTASA, JUNE 15
UNCF’S “A MIND IS…” GALA FEATURES THE ARTWORK OF
KUDZAI B. MUTASA, JUNE 15
Through events like this, UNCF—now in its 80th year—is changing the HBCU narrative across the nation by helping more students get to and through college.
CHICAGO – June 11, 2024 – As a major event during the year-long 80th anniversary celebration of UNCF (United Negro College Fund), the organization’s “A Mind Is…” (AMI) Gala, being held June 15 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, will feature the exquisite artwork of visual artist Kudzai B. Mutasa.
The black-tie event begins with a reception at 6 p.m. followed by dinner and a program at 7 p.m. Visit www.uncf.org/amiChicago.
. “Kudzai is an incredibly talented creative whose work is vibrant and powerful. We are so excited to feature more than 20 of her pieces at the gala,” said Lisa M. Rollins, Regional Workplace Development Director, UNCF.
“I have always viewed my artwork as a gift meant to be shared, and I consider it a privilege to utilize this gift to support others, particularly the next generation of leaders. Collaborating with UNCF at the AMI Gala allows me to assist individuals in collecting beautiful art pieces while investing in our future,” said Mutasa.
Mutasa’s artwork will be showcased and available for silent auction and purchase at the gala and for bid and purchase online at www.uncfchicagoami.com. Mutasa also has created a UNCF 80th anniversary commemorative art piece and she will create an art piece live, on-site in the ballroom during the gala. Both pieces will be available to win in select drawings.
“For me, her original oil painting ‘United’ represents beauty in harmony, diversity and luminosity,” Rollins said.
The original “United” piece will be sold to the highest bidder. Meanwhile, prints of this piece will be given as a gift to guests who donate $500 or more to UNCF, during the event.
Born in Zimbabwe, Mutasa relocated to the United States at the age of four. She began creating art at a young age. Mutasa utilizes mixed media to create detailed 3D and engaging pieces that connect with her audience in a unique and genuine manner.
Along with being an artist, Mutasa worked several years as a corporate marketer. She holds a MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University
Her work has been exhibited at the DuSable Museum of African-American History, the South Side Community Arts Center, the Essence Music Festival, the Harlem Fine Art Show and the 60th Venice Italy Bieannale.
This year, the AMI Gala fundraising goal is $1 million. The evening promises to be a night filled with purpose and a resounding call for the Chicago community to join UNCF in supporting education. It will also be a festive affair with music, dancing, and exquisite gourmet dining. Entertainment will be provided by R&B/neo soul singer-songwriter, actor, and four-time Grammy Award nominee Eric Benet.
From 2022 – 2023, UNCF awarded 541 scholarships to students in Illinois.
UNCF’s iconic motto now revised still rings true…a mind is a terrible thing to waste, but a wonderful thing to invest in™. For information, tickets and tables, contact UNCF at 312-845-2200.
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