Empty Canvas took the stage at the Charlotte Public Schools Education Foundation’s 2nd annual Art Sale and did not disappoint. The duo of Mike and Matt McMath added a local touch to their second appearance in the Charlotte community, painting the historic stork fountain that used to reside at the intersection of Lawrence Avenue, Lansing Street and Pleasant Street. Those in attendance added several brush strokes before the finished product came to life.
The piece served to get the live auction portion of the evening underway. Several pieces of artwork followed in the auction, raising money for the foundation. The funds help supply teacher mini-grants, one of the Foundation’s most critical programs. The mini-grants help provide innovative learning opportunities in classrooms at all levels of the district.
“We were very pleased with the generosity of the local businesses who sponsored along with those in attendance,” said CPS Education Foundation President, Brian Lautzenheiser. “It was a fun evening and we appreciate the support for the Foundation.”
The final numbers were still being calculated, said CPS Education Foundation member Carolyn Maier. However, Foundation Vice President Sharon Kubica said the evening was a great success thanks to those who attended and the many local businesses and individuals that helped sponsor it, including: Adam Schwaderer and Shelley Schendel, Balanced Health Chiropractic Center, Candy Ford, Captain’s Cabinetry, LLC, Carl V. Reck Jewelers, Contemporary Dental Care, Craft Chiropractic, Custom Home Interiors, Eaton Federal Savings Bank, Ed Dobbs and Jan Woodside, Eye Care Associates of Charlotte, Farm Bureau Insurance — Brian Lautzenheiser, Fisk Insurance Agency, LLC, Frank’s Food Mart, Fred and Marlene Darin, Fulton Lumber, Insty Prints, Jeff and Beth Wildern, Joe and Wendy Wildern, Mary Kay by Susan Moore, Pray Funeral Home, Ron and Judy Schultheiss, SBC Builders, The Barber Shop, William T. Shetenhelm, CPA, PC and in kind sponsors, Byrum Hardware, Charlotte Lithograph, Fay’s Evelyn Bay, Insty Prints, The Big Salad, The County Journal, Yutzy’s and Marlene Darin.
“Proceeds from the event will help build the CPS Education Foundation Endowment Fund and continue the foundation mission to support educational opportunities for our students,” Kubica said. “Though attendance was less than last year, we are thankful to all the generous sponsors and community members who came to enjoy ‘Empty Canvas’, the evening festivities and purchase art.. “
