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MARWEN LAUNCHES ASSOCIATE BOARD
(Chicago, IL – June 2024) Marwen is pleased to announce the launch of an Associate Board, composed of corporate, nonprofit, and civic leaders – three of whom are Marwen Alumni – with members being appointed by Marwen’s Board of Directors. The first cohort of 13 members includes Stephanie Adams (Publicis Groupe), Roshi Ahmadian (JP Morgan Chase), Alexandra Bishop (Murmur Ring), Jarius Brookins (Allstate, Marwen Alum), Natasha Cooper (Merrill Lynch), Emily Krupnick (The Krupnick Approach), Whitney LaMora (Drinking Policy), Mayra Palafox (Marwen Alum), Caroline Quazzo-Elnick (Camber), Alexis Smyser-DeLeon (26th Ward Alderperson Jessie Fuentes, Marwen Alum), Daphne Stratta (Constellation Brands), Elijah Teague (Gensler), and Dana Treglia (Feeding America). Individual bios are listed below.
The Associate Board will actively support Marwen’s mission through community building and fundraising while fostering personal and professional growth among its members. Their main objectives are to expand upon the success of Marwen’s Art Fair through fundraising and outreach, and to provide a pathway for emerging leaders to become trustees of the organization.
Stephanie Adams is an Art Director at Publicis Groupe with 5 years’ experience in the graphic design field. She sits on the Global Business Development team at Publicis, specializing in designing and executing global new business pitches. Prior to finding her niche in New Business, Stephanie worked in healthcare marketing designing recruitment campaigns, printed collateral, and landing pages for over 25 clients in the healthcare sector. She is a member of She Runs It and AIGA.
Roshi Ahmadian is currently the Senior Associate for Global Philanthropy at JPMorgan Chase, where she supports the firm’s grantmaking in the US central region. Her work helps drive toward the $30 billion commitment to address systemic barriers and build a more equitable economy. Roshi holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, an MA in art history and museum studies from Case Western Reserve University. Born and raised in Tehran, Iran, Roshi is a fluent Farsi speaker who enjoys photography, graphic design, painting, and traveling.
Alexandra Bishop is an artist whose career began as a Curatorial Assistant and Collections Manager for an art museum and later served in communications, fundraising, and programmatic roles at nonprofits spanning the arts, human services, and economic development. Today, her career focuses on crafting hand-built objects, creating arts spaces, and designing creative experiences. She is launching the community art space Bishop's Garden & Studio in her hometown of Island Falls, Maine.
Jarius Brookins is a multidisciplinary creative specializing in graphic design and user experience. He is currently working at Allstate and pursuing an MBA with a focus on marketing strategy and planning. In his leisure time, Jarius enjoys traveling and engaging in a variety of physical activities. Jarius is a Marwen Alumnus.
Natasha Cooper has worked at Merrill Lynch since 2017. She has more than 18 years of experience in client services and is passionate about providing excellent administrative support. She graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, with a degree in criminal justice and completed her M.B.A. at Wilmington University. Natasha is an avid traveler and enjoys spending time with her family and exploring the cultural and culinary offerings of Chicago. She is a volunteer on the auxiliary board for Chicago Youth Centers, a nonprofit that supports inner-city education and after-school programs.
Emily Krupnick is Chief Management Officer at The Krupnick Approach. With Master’s Degrees in school social work and administrative leadership, Emily is a school clinician by trade. She offers a rare combination of educational leadership expertise and a deep understanding of the day-to-day complexities of the high-school experience. Emily also specializes in organizational support and time management strategies.
Whitney LaMora is a Curator, Producer, and Immersive Artist with almost 15 years experience in the Chicago arts scene. Originally starting in the storefront theatre scene, Whitney transitioned to a career in events spanning from DIY pop ups to Creative Director for the Drinking Policy Hospitality Collective that she runs with her wife. Whitney is most interested in the intersection of queer experiences, intimate interactions, and interesting conversations.
Mayra Cecilia Palafox is an artist and arts administrator originally from Michoacan, Mexico. An alumna of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, she is interested in how Spanish speaking immigrant communities can have an active role in public engagement through collaborations with other cultural institutions, music, food and local visual artists. Mayra has worked at the Smart Museum of Art at the University of Chicago, the Field Museum of Natural History, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York Historical Society, and MCA Chicago. Mayra is a Marwen Alumna.
Caroline Quazzo-Elnick is a Customer Solutions Engineering Lead at Camber, a company that provides charging and software solutions for fleets of electric vehicles. She's worked in the electric vehicle and energy space for her entire career. Caroline grew up in Chicago and enjoys running, walking, and biking along the lakefront trail, trying new restaurants in Chicago, and reading.
Alexis Smyser-DeLeon is a policy and communications professional who currently serves as Director of Policy for 26th Ward Alderperson Jessie Fuentes and as a consultant for various political campaigns in Chicago. She was born and raised in Humboldt Park and holds a Master of Public Policy from the University of Chicago Harris School. She has hosted and produced a Field Foundation-awarded podcast called "Sistematic," which is focused on uplifting the stories of women of color and gender-nonconforming people making an impact in Chicago’s creative, activist, and business communities. Alexis is a Marwen Alumna.
Daphne Stratta is a Luxury Brand Specialist at Constellation Brands. Sharing memories, delicious food, and superb wines with family is where she found her calling to the hospitality industry. She achieved her first sommelier certificate before the age of 21 and has worked the floors of numerous fine dining establishments in Chicago, including curating tasting menus and collaborating with numerous Michelin star chefs. She also has a Certified Sommelier certificate through the Court of Master Sommeliers.
Elijah Teague is a Chicago born Design Strategist, currently practicing at Gensler. With a BBA in Strategic Design and Management from Parsons School of Design and over six years of creative experience, he approaches every project with a holistic, open-minded, and sustainable perspective. Elijah's process and aesthetic seeks to draw inspiration from multiple industries, cultures and philosophies, often resulting in a more diverse and inclusive outcome that accurately reflects the environment and people within it.
Dana Treglia is an accomplished writer, strategist, and fundraiser whose focus centers on driving meaningful relationships and amplifying impact. She has worked in development with institutions such as the University of Chicago, A Red Orchid Theatre, and the People’s Music School. Dana is currently the Manager of Donor Communications at Feeding America, where her expertise transforms data and metrics into strategic assets.
Marwen educates and inspires young people to nurture their growth and build their futures through art and community. Founded in 1987, Marwen has supported more than 14,000 young people through our no-cost studio arts courses, academic counseling, and professional development programs. Our programs are especially crucial to Chicago's low-income communities of color, who face systemic barriers to accessing high-quality arts education and pathways to creative careers. Marwen's programming nurtures young people's creative expression, affirms their identities and choices, and builds their connections to peers and mentors. The skills, confidence, and relationships that begin at Marwen open doors to futures filled with possibilities. Marwen relies on support from generous donors to sustain our robust programming and to keep all our programs at no cost to young people and their families.
MARWEN LAUNCHES ASSOCIATE BOARD
(Chicago, IL – June 2024) Marwen is pleased to announce the launch of an Associate Board, composed of corporate, nonprofit, and civic leaders – three of whom are Marwen Alumni – with members being appointed by Marwen’s Board of Directors. The first cohort of 13 members includes Stephanie Adams (Publicis Groupe), Roshi Ahmadian (JP Morgan Chase), Alexandra Bishop (Murmur Ring), Jarius Brookins (Allstate, Marwen Alum), Natasha Cooper (Merrill Lynch), Emily Krupnick (The Krupnick Approach), Whitney LaMora (Drinking Policy), Mayra Palafox (Marwen Alum), Caroline Quazzo-Elnick (Camber), Alexis Smyser-DeLeon (26th Ward Alderperson Jessie Fuentes, Marwen Alum), Daphne Stratta (Constellation Brands), Elijah Teague (Gensler), and Dana Treglia (Feeding America). Individual bios are listed below.
The Associate Board will actively support Marwen’s mission through community building and fundraising while fostering personal and professional growth among its members. Their main objectives are to expand upon the success of Marwen’s Art Fair through fundraising and outreach, and to provide a pathway for emerging leaders to become trustees of the organization.
Stephanie Adams is an Art Director at Publicis Groupe with 5 years’ experience in the graphic design field. She sits on the Global Business Development team at Publicis, specializing in designing and executing global new business pitches. Prior to finding her niche in New Business, Stephanie worked in healthcare marketing designing recruitment campaigns, printed collateral, and landing pages for over 25 clients in the healthcare sector. She is a member of She Runs It and AIGA.
Roshi Ahmadian is currently the Senior Associate for Global Philanthropy at JPMorgan Chase, where she supports the firm’s grantmaking in the US central region. Her work helps drive toward the $30 billion commitment to address systemic barriers and build a more equitable economy. Roshi holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, an MA in art history and museum studies from Case Western Reserve University. Born and raised in Tehran, Iran, Roshi is a fluent Farsi speaker who enjoys photography, graphic design, painting, and traveling.
Alexandra Bishop is an artist whose career began as a Curatorial Assistant and Collections Manager for an art museum and later served in communications, fundraising, and programmatic roles at nonprofits spanning the arts, human services, and economic development. Today, her career focuses on crafting hand-built objects, creating arts spaces, and designing creative experiences. She is launching the community art space Bishop's Garden & Studio in her hometown of Island Falls, Maine.
Jarius Brookins is a multidisciplinary creative specializing in graphic design and user experience. He is currently working at Allstate and pursuing an MBA with a focus on marketing strategy and planning. In his leisure time, Jarius enjoys traveling and engaging in a variety of physical activities. Jarius is a Marwen Alumnus.
Natasha Cooper has worked at Merrill Lynch since 2017. She has more than 18 years of experience in client services and is passionate about providing excellent administrative support. She graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, with a degree in criminal justice and completed her M.B.A. at Wilmington University. Natasha is an avid traveler and enjoys spending time with her family and exploring the cultural and culinary offerings of Chicago. She is a volunteer on the auxiliary board for Chicago Youth Centers, a nonprofit that supports inner-city education and after-school programs.
Emily Krupnick is Chief Management Officer at The Krupnick Approach. With Master’s Degrees in school social work and administrative leadership, Emily is a school clinician by trade. She offers a rare combination of educational leadership expertise and a deep understanding of the day-to-day complexities of the high-school experience. Emily also specializes in organizational support and time management strategies.
Whitney LaMora is a Curator, Producer, and Immersive Artist with almost 15 years experience in the Chicago arts scene. Originally starting in the storefront theatre scene, Whitney transitioned to a career in events spanning from DIY pop ups to Creative Director for the Drinking Policy Hospitality Collective that she runs with her wife. Whitney is most interested in the intersection of queer experiences, intimate interactions, and interesting conversations.
Mayra Cecilia Palafox is an artist and arts administrator originally from Michoacan, Mexico. An alumna of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, she is interested in how Spanish speaking immigrant communities can have an active role in public engagement through collaborations with other cultural institutions, music, food and local visual artists. Mayra has worked at the Smart Museum of Art at the University of Chicago, the Field Museum of Natural History, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York Historical Society, and MCA Chicago. Mayra is a Marwen Alumna.
Caroline Quazzo-Elnick is a Customer Solutions Engineering Lead at Camber, a company that provides charging and software solutions for fleets of electric vehicles. She's worked in the electric vehicle and energy space for her entire career. Caroline grew up in Chicago and enjoys running, walking, and biking along the lakefront trail, trying new restaurants in Chicago, and reading.
Alexis Smyser-DeLeon is a policy and communications professional who currently serves as Director of Policy for 26th Ward Alderperson Jessie Fuentes and as a consultant for various political campaigns in Chicago. She was born and raised in Humboldt Park and holds a Master of Public Policy from the University of Chicago Harris School. She has hosted and produced a Field Foundation-awarded podcast called "Sistematic," which is focused on uplifting the stories of women of color and gender-nonconforming people making an impact in Chicago’s creative, activist, and business communities. Alexis is a Marwen Alumna.
Daphne Stratta is a Luxury Brand Specialist at Constellation Brands. Sharing memories, delicious food, and superb wines with family is where she found her calling to the hospitality industry. She achieved her first sommelier certificate before the age of 21 and has worked the floors of numerous fine dining establishments in Chicago, including curating tasting menus and collaborating with numerous Michelin star chefs. She also has a Certified Sommelier certificate through the Court of Master Sommeliers.
Elijah Teague is a Chicago born Design Strategist, currently practicing at Gensler. With a BBA in Strategic Design and Management from Parsons School of Design and over six years of creative experience, he approaches every project with a holistic, open-minded, and sustainable perspective. Elijah's process and aesthetic seeks to draw inspiration from multiple industries, cultures and philosophies, often resulting in a more diverse and inclusive outcome that accurately reflects the environment and people within it.
Dana Treglia is an accomplished writer, strategist, and fundraiser whose focus centers on driving meaningful relationships and amplifying impact. She has worked in development with institutions such as the University of Chicago, A Red Orchid Theatre, and the People’s Music School. Dana is currently the Manager of Donor Communications at Feeding America, where her expertise transforms data and metrics into strategic assets.
Marwen educates and inspires young people to nurture their growth and build their futures through art and community. Founded in 1987, Marwen has supported more than 14,000 young people through our no-cost studio arts courses, academic counseling, and professional development programs. Our programs are especially crucial to Chicago's low-income communities of color, who face systemic barriers to accessing high-quality arts education and pathways to creative careers. Marwen's programming nurtures young people's creative expression, affirms their identities and choices, and builds their connections to peers and mentors. The skills, confidence, and relationships that begin at Marwen open doors to futures filled with possibilities. Marwen relies on support from generous donors to sustain our robust programming and to keep all our programs at no cost to young people and their families.
MARWEN ANNOUNCES ITS 17TH ANNUAL ART AUCTION
(Chicago, IL – September 12, 2023) Marwen is thrilled to host its 17th Annual Art Fair: an exhibition, art auction, and fundraiser, on Friday, November 3, 2023 from 6:30 - 9:30 pm at Marwen (833 N. Orleans Street). The fair features 400+ original artworks from 100+ Marwen students, alumni, teaching artists, and staff. Art Fair 2023 is co-chaired by Marwen trustees Mikaya Daniels (Cisco) and Julie Hokin Watts (Corporate Concepts).
Guests will enjoy three floors of art, hors d'oeuvres, and open bars while bidding on work via their phones. The auction will showcase original artwork, including photography, painting, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, home decor, fashion, and more. All proceeds are split and support the artists (75%) as well as Marwen's no-cost arts programming for Chicago youth (25%). The event directly supports Marwen's mission to educate and inspire young people to nurture their growth and build their futures through art and community.
“Engagement in Marwen’s programming helps young people grow as artists, creative thinkers, empathetic people, and young adults. Marwen’s Art Fair event has become an important platform for emerging artists, particularly those from the predominantly BIPOC and low-income communities in Chicago that Marwen serves,” said event co-chair Julie Hokin Watts. Co-chair Mikaya Daniels added that “through their participation in the Marwen community, young people are seen, heard, and valued both as individuals and as artists. Art Fair is often the first time they experience exhibiting and selling their work. By providing an avenue for exposure, Marwen’s Art Fair dismantles barriers and uplifts our mission to inspire and nurture the growth of young artists.”
TICKETS
Guests can purchase tickets to attend and bid on artwork at artfair.givesmart.com.
Early Bird tickets are $40 and are available until October 1 (limited supply), Individual tickets are $50; and tickets at the door will be $60. New this year are Community tickets for $50, which allow you to help cover the cost of a ticket for someone who otherwise cannot afford to attend.
Sponsorship opportunities are available and range from $1,000 to $25,000. Contact Mindy Scott, Director of Development, at mscott@marwen.org with any questions.
ART FAIR 2023 SPONSORS
Steve & Karen Berkowitz
Amy & Adam Bluhm
Corporate Concepts
Mikaya Daniels
James and Mary Hill
Kirkland & Ellis
Bob Buchsbaum & Elyse Klein
Katherine Scott Jimenez & James Jimenez
Isa & Adam Pressman
Deborah and Stephen Quazzo
Julie Hokin Watts and Jason Watts
Chiara & Dan Wrocinski
In-Kind
Limelight
Mmmm…Enjoy. Wines
Revolution Brewing
ABOUT MARWEN
Marwen educates and inspires young people to nurture their growth and build their futures through art and community. Founded in 1987, Marwen has supported more than 14,000 young people through our no-cost studio arts courses, academic counseling, and professional development programs. Our programs are especially crucial to Chicago's low-income communities of color, who face systemic barriers to accessing high-quality arts education and pathways to creative careers. Marwen's programming nurtures young people's creative expression, affirms their identities and choices, and builds their connections to peers and mentors. The skills, confidence, and relationships that begin at Marwen open doors to futures filled with possibilities. Marwen relies on support from generous donors to sustain our robust programming and to keep all our programs at no cost to young people and their families.
Follow Marwen on social: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
# # #
MARWEN ANNOUNCES ITS 17TH ANNUAL ART AUCTION
(Chicago, IL – September 12, 2023) Marwen is thrilled to host its 17th Annual Art Fair: an exhibition, art auction, and fundraiser, on Friday, November 3, 2023 from 6:30 - 9:30 pm at Marwen (833 N. Orleans Street). The fair features 400+ original artworks from 100+ Marwen students, alumni, teaching artists, and staff. Art Fair 2023 is co-chaired by Marwen trustees Mikaya Daniels (Cisco) and Julie Hokin Watts (Corporate Concepts).
Guests will enjoy three floors of art, hors d'oeuvres, and open bars while bidding on work via their phones. The auction will showcase original artwork, including photography, painting, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, home decor, fashion, and more. All proceeds are split and support the artists (75%) as well as Marwen's no-cost arts programming for Chicago youth (25%). The event directly supports Marwen's mission to educate and inspire young people to nurture their growth and build their futures through art and community.
“Engagement in Marwen’s programming helps young people grow as artists, creative thinkers, empathetic people, and young adults. Marwen’s Art Fair event has become an important platform for emerging artists, particularly those from the predominantly BIPOC and low-income communities in Chicago that Marwen serves,” said event co-chair Julie Hokin Watts. Co-chair Mikaya Daniels added that “through their participation in the Marwen community, young people are seen, heard, and valued both as individuals and as artists. Art Fair is often the first time they experience exhibiting and selling their work. By providing an avenue for exposure, Marwen’s Art Fair dismantles barriers and uplifts our mission to inspire and nurture the growth of young artists.”
TICKETS
Guests can purchase tickets to attend and bid on artwork at artfair.givesmart.com.
Early Bird tickets are $40 and are available until October 1 (limited supply), Individual tickets are $50; and tickets at the door will be $60. New this year are Community tickets for $50, which allow you to help cover the cost of a ticket for someone who otherwise cannot afford to attend.
Sponsorship opportunities are available and range from $1,000 to $25,000. Contact Mindy Scott, Director of Development, at mscott@marwen.org with any questions.
ART FAIR 2023 SPONSORS
Steve & Karen Berkowitz
Amy & Adam Bluhm
Corporate Concepts
Mikaya Daniels
James and Mary Hill
Kirkland & Ellis
Bob Buchsbaum & Elyse Klein
Katherine Scott Jimenez & James Jimenez
Isa & Adam Pressman
Deborah and Stephen Quazzo
Julie Hokin Watts and Jason Watts
Chiara & Dan Wrocinski
In-Kind
Limelight
Mmmm…Enjoy. Wines
Revolution Brewing
ABOUT MARWEN
Marwen educates and inspires young people to nurture their growth and build their futures through art and community. Founded in 1987, Marwen has supported more than 14,000 young people through our no-cost studio arts courses, academic counseling, and professional development programs. Our programs are especially crucial to Chicago's low-income communities of color, who face systemic barriers to accessing high-quality arts education and pathways to creative careers. Marwen's programming nurtures young people's creative expression, affirms their identities and choices, and builds their connections to peers and mentors. The skills, confidence, and relationships that begin at Marwen open doors to futures filled with possibilities. Marwen relies on support from generous donors to sustain our robust programming and to keep all our programs at no cost to young people and their families.
Follow Marwen on social: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
# # #
To our community,
We are disheartened by the Supreme Court ruling that race-based college admissions programs are unconstitutional. “At highly selective liberal arts colleges, officials expect that the number of Black students could return to levels not seen since the 1960s.” (The New York Times) And if you follow them into the workforce, for the subsequent 15-20 years, they will earn about 5% lower wages than they would have earned if they had access to more universities under affirmative action.” (NPR)
We recognize the harm that decisions like this cause for communities like ours here at Marwen. Many generations have been systematically deprived of educational and career opportunities. I often recall being advised as a young adult not to disclose my race or share my name on an application in order to be seen by my work and not my identity.
At the core of Marwen’s work is access. Approximately 80% of the young people we support identify as BIPOC and low-income, and many are first-generation. The world continues to erect barriers, but Marwen remains committed to the development of young people as they navigate pathways to a thriving adulthood.
While decisions like this make our days more challenging, our work does not stop. We are dedicated to providing more opportunities for young people through our courses, inclusive community, academic and career counseling, and youth employment opportunities.
Thank you for being a part of our community and supporting us as we continue this work.
Akilah S. Halley
Executive Director
If you would like to make a greater impact in this continued fight for equity, please consider making a donation at www.marwen.org/donate.
To our community,
We are disheartened by the Supreme Court ruling that race-based college admissions programs are unconstitutional. “At highly selective liberal arts colleges, officials expect that the number of Black students could return to levels not seen since the 1960s.” (The New York Times) And if you follow them into the workforce, for the subsequent 15-20 years, they will earn about 5% lower wages than they would have earned if they had access to more universities under affirmative action.” (NPR)
We recognize the harm that decisions like this cause for communities like ours here at Marwen. Many generations have been systematically deprived of educational and career opportunities. I often recall being advised as a young adult not to disclose my race or share my name on an application in order to be seen by my work and not my identity.
At the core of Marwen’s work is access. Approximately 80% of the young people we support identify as BIPOC and low-income, and many are first-generation. The world continues to erect barriers, but Marwen remains committed to the development of young people as they navigate pathways to a thriving adulthood.
While decisions like this make our days more challenging, our work does not stop. We are dedicated to providing more opportunities for young people through our courses, inclusive community, academic and career counseling, and youth employment opportunities.
Thank you for being a part of our community and supporting us as we continue this work.
Akilah S. Halley
Executive Director
If you would like to make a greater impact in this continued fight for equity, please consider making a donation at www.marwen.org/donate.
MARWEN CELEBRATES 36 YEARS IN CHICAGO AT PAINTBRUSH BALL 2023
Saturday, May 20, 2023, 6-11 PM
Morgan MFG, 401 N Morgan St
(Chicago, IL – May 2, 2023) Marwen announces its largest fundraising event, Paintbrush Ball, on Saturday, May 20, 6-11 pm at Morgan MFG in Chicago’s West Loop. Celebrating 36 years of FREE creative youth development programs in Chicago, the event welcomes 300+ philanthropists, cultural tastemakers and civic leaders and raises funds to keep all Marwen programs at no cost to families.
This year's event co-chairs are Marwen trustees Sarah Finlayson-Banasiak (The Revel Group) and Britt Nolan (Leo Burnett). We are thrilled for their leadership in planning this can’t-miss event. Paintbrush Ball 2023, which is held on Marwen’s birthday, includes a bustling cocktail hour with appetizers, open bar, silent auction, visual art displays, and a special program curated for the evening. Co-chair Sarah Finlayson-Banasiak and her team at Limelight Catering will also treat our guests to a decadent, three course meal.The celebration will continue until 11 pm with dancing and music by DJ Trak Qwn.
This year's event celebrates Art@Work, a summer internship program and cornerstone of our Pathways programs. Art@Work provides young people with immersive and paid professional development experiences in various creative career fields. The event’s theme is inspired by these internships, with designs conceived by co-chair Britt Nolan’s creative team at Leo Burnett that elevate everyday office supplies into works of art.
“Paintbrush Ball is a celebration of community, creativity, and connection,” said Akilah Halley, Marwen’s Executive Director and an alumna of the organization. “The generosity of our sponsors and attendees allows Marwen to expand programs and pathways for young people – to flourish as artists, creative thinkers, leaders, and thriving adults.”
TICKETS & PACKAGES
Individual tickets are on a sliding scale from $200 to $500. Sponsorship opportunities are available and range from $2,500 to $25,000. Contact Mindy Scott, Director of Development, at mscott@marwen.org with any questions.
2023 PAINTBRUSH BALL SPONSORS
Aldi
Allstate
Amy and Andy Bluhm
Antonia Contro & George Marquisos
Blick Art Materials
Bluhm Family Charitable Foundation
Bob Buchsbaum and Elyse Klein
Britt and Catherine Nolan
Carol and Larry Levy
Chiara and Dan Wrocinski
Corporate Concepts
GCM Grosvenor
Gensler
Hindman
Isa and Adam Pressman
James and Mary Hill
Katherine Scott Jimenez and James Jimenez
Kirkland & Ellis
Lee and Sharon Oberlander
Leo Burnett
Limelight
Luxury Residence Group by Power Construction
Mark-It Express Logistics LLC
MillerKnoll
Molly Morse Limmer and Seth Limmer
Pritzker Traubert Foundation
Sally Pofcher
Steven P. and Karen Berkowitz
The Gallo Family
Wheeler Kearns Architects
ABOUT MARWEN
Marwen exists to inspire young people to nurture their growth and build their futures through art and community. Founded in 1987, Marwen has supported over 14,000 young people in Chicago who lack access to arts programming. Through studio courses as well as academic and creative career pathway programs, Marwen's cost-free offerings nurture the development of young people, provide creative opportunities, and help build a future filled with possibility and success.
MEDIA CONTACT
Kennon Reinard, Director of Communications
Photography and video are welcome during the event.
MARWEN CELEBRATES 36 YEARS IN CHICAGO AT PAINTBRUSH BALL 2023
Saturday, May 20, 2023, 6-11 PM
Morgan MFG, 401 N Morgan St
(Chicago, IL – May 2, 2023) Marwen announces its largest fundraising event, Paintbrush Ball, on Saturday, May 20, 6-11 pm at Morgan MFG in Chicago’s West Loop. Celebrating 36 years of FREE creative youth development programs in Chicago, the event welcomes 300+ philanthropists, cultural tastemakers and civic leaders and raises funds to keep all Marwen programs at no cost to families.
This year's event co-chairs are Marwen trustees Sarah Finlayson-Banasiak (The Revel Group) and Britt Nolan (Leo Burnett). We are thrilled for their leadership in planning this can’t-miss event. Paintbrush Ball 2023, which is held on Marwen’s birthday, includes a bustling cocktail hour with appetizers, open bar, silent auction, visual art displays, and a special program curated for the evening. Co-chair Sarah Finlayson-Banasiak and her team at Limelight Catering will also treat our guests to a decadent, three course meal.The celebration will continue until 11 pm with dancing and music by DJ Trak Qwn.
This year's event celebrates Art@Work, a summer internship program and cornerstone of our Pathways programs. Art@Work provides young people with immersive and paid professional development experiences in various creative career fields. The event’s theme is inspired by these internships, with designs conceived by co-chair Britt Nolan’s creative team at Leo Burnett that elevate everyday office supplies into works of art.
“Paintbrush Ball is a celebration of community, creativity, and connection,” said Akilah Halley, Marwen’s Executive Director and an alumna of the organization. “The generosity of our sponsors and attendees allows Marwen to expand programs and pathways for young people – to flourish as artists, creative thinkers, leaders, and thriving adults.”
TICKETS & PACKAGES
Individual tickets are on a sliding scale from $200 to $500. Sponsorship opportunities are available and range from $2,500 to $25,000. Contact Mindy Scott, Director of Development, at mscott@marwen.org with any questions.
2023 PAINTBRUSH BALL SPONSORS
Aldi
Allstate
Amy and Andy Bluhm
Antonia Contro & George Marquisos
Blick Art Materials
Bluhm Family Charitable Foundation
Bob Buchsbaum and Elyse Klein
Britt and Catherine Nolan
Carol and Larry Levy
Chiara and Dan Wrocinski
Corporate Concepts
GCM Grosvenor
Gensler
Hindman
Isa and Adam Pressman
James and Mary Hill
Katherine Scott Jimenez and James Jimenez
Kirkland & Ellis
Lee and Sharon Oberlander
Leo Burnett
Limelight
Luxury Residence Group by Power Construction
Mark-It Express Logistics LLC
MillerKnoll
Molly Morse Limmer and Seth Limmer
Pritzker Traubert Foundation
Sally Pofcher
Steven P. and Karen Berkowitz
The Gallo Family
Wheeler Kearns Architects
ABOUT MARWEN
Marwen exists to inspire young people to nurture their growth and build their futures through art and community. Founded in 1987, Marwen has supported over 14,000 young people in Chicago who lack access to arts programming. Through studio courses as well as academic and creative career pathway programs, Marwen's cost-free offerings nurture the development of young people, provide creative opportunities, and help build a future filled with possibility and success.
MEDIA CONTACT
Kennon Reinard, Director of Communications
Photography and video are welcome during the event.
Now hiring Summer 2023 interns!
Application deadline: May 7
Art@Work is a creative career internship program where Chicago young people are hired for a 5-week summer creative internship in Chicago. Students are placed in an arts-related organization or business that matches the student’s interests, strengths, and creative skills. Marwen partners with sites across the city to offer various creative internships in order for young people to explore their next steps, learn about different creative career pathways, and envision their futures.
Since Art@Work launched in 2007, Marwen has partnered with 77 organizations and companies and welcomed 274 interns into the program. In 2023, we are celebrating the 16th anniversary of this special program with longtime partners like Spudnik Press (10 years), Intuit (9 years), Landon Bone Baker Architects (9 years), and so many other wonderful organizations and friends. READ FULL POST
Now hiring Summer 2023 interns!
Application deadline: May 7
Art@Work is a creative career internship program where Chicago young people are hired for a 5-week summer creative internship in Chicago. Students are placed in an arts-related organization or business that matches the student’s interests, strengths, and creative skills. Marwen partners with sites across the city to offer various creative internships in order for young people to explore their next steps, learn about different creative career pathways, and envision their futures.
Since Art@Work launched in 2007, Marwen has partnered with 77 organizations and companies and welcomed 274 interns into the program. In 2023, we are celebrating the 16th anniversary of this special program with longtime partners like Spudnik Press (10 years), Intuit (9 years), Landon Bone Baker Architects (9 years), and so many other wonderful organizations and friends. READ FULL POST
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MARWEN TO RECEIVE GRANT FROM THE NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS
Chicago [January 20, 2022] — Marwen has been approved for a Grants for Arts Projects award to support arts education within our Studio Programs. Marwen’s project is among 1,248 projects across America totaling $28,840,000 that were selected to receive this first round of fiscal year 2022 funding in the Grants for Arts Projects category.
“The National Endowment for the Arts is proud to support arts projects like this one from
Marwen helps support the community’s creative economy,” said NEA Acting Chair Ann Eilers. “Marwen in Chicago is among the arts organizations nationwide that are using the arts as a source of strength, a path to well-being, and providing access and opportunity for people to connect and find joy through the arts.” For more information on other projects included in the Arts Endowment grant announcement, visit arts.gov/news.
“Support from The National Endowment for the Arts has spanned three decades at Marwen,” shared Akilah Halley, Executive Director and Marwen alumna. “We are ecstatic for their continued support, which directly impacts accessibility to our no-cost arts courses and workshops for young people here in Chicago.”
Marwen’s Studio Programs represent a suite of virtual and in-person courses designed in collaboration with community-based artists and emerging artists 16-24 years old. Courses encompass a wide range of art disciplines including painting, photography, time-based media, fashion and fiber arts, natural or plant-based arts, sculpture, ceramics, design arts, and mixed media.
ABOUT MARWEN
Since 1987, Marwen has educated and inspired young people to nurture their growth and build their futures through art and community. Marwen provides no-cost visual art courses, college planning, and career development programs to 6-12th graders from across the city. For more information visit marwen.org.
MARWEN TO RECEIVE GRANT FROM THE NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS
Chicago [January 20, 2022] — Marwen has been approved for a Grants for Arts Projects award to support arts education within our Studio Programs. Marwen’s project is among 1,248 projects across America totaling $28,840,000 that were selected to receive this first round of fiscal year 2022 funding in the Grants for Arts Projects category.
“The National Endowment for the Arts is proud to support arts projects like this one from
Marwen helps support the community’s creative economy,” said NEA Acting Chair Ann Eilers. “Marwen in Chicago is among the arts organizations nationwide that are using the arts as a source of strength, a path to well-being, and providing access and opportunity for people to connect and find joy through the arts.” For more information on other projects included in the Arts Endowment grant announcement, visit arts.gov/news.
“Support from The National Endowment for the Arts has spanned three decades at Marwen,” shared Akilah Halley, Executive Director and Marwen alumna. “We are ecstatic for their continued support, which directly impacts accessibility to our no-cost arts courses and workshops for young people here in Chicago.”
Marwen’s Studio Programs represent a suite of virtual and in-person courses designed in collaboration with community-based artists and emerging artists 16-24 years old. Courses encompass a wide range of art disciplines including painting, photography, time-based media, fashion and fiber arts, natural or plant-based arts, sculpture, ceramics, design arts, and mixed media.
ABOUT MARWEN
Since 1987, Marwen has educated and inspired young people to nurture their growth and build their futures through art and community. Marwen provides no-cost visual art courses, college planning, and career development programs to 6-12th graders from across the city. For more information visit marwen.org.
