LENOX, Mass. — The Berkshire Art Center (BAC) will host its 2026 Gala on May 16 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Ventfort Hall. 

 

The event serves as a fundraiser for the organization's year-round arts programs, including the expansion of its ceramics studio, youth art camps, and community engagement efforts for children and adults.

 

The gala, themed "Creativity as a Radical Act of Love," will be held within the Gilded Age mansion and gardens of Ventfort Hall. According to BAC Executive Director Laura Dickstein Thompson, the theme emphasizes creative expression as a socially transformative tool.

 

"Creativity is life affirming, and sharing what we create with others is an act of true love and openness," said BAC Executive Director Laura Dickstein Thompson. "As a teaching art and cultural center, our message to students and the wider community is, 'Your perspective matters. Your creative expression has value.' BAC believes such encouragement is deeply loving and socially transformative.”

 

The evening's itinerary includes a wine tasting presented by South Egremont Spirit Shoppe, where beverages will be served in handmade ceramic vessels to highlight the center's ceramics program. Attendees will also participate in a live collaborative art project led by Berkshire-based artist John Clarke. Clarke will guide guests in applying pastel and colored pencil to a large-scale photograph of the center's grounds. The resulting artwork will be auctioned to support BAC programs and scholarships.

 

Chatham-based artist Wes Bruce, the center's first "HeartSpace" Artist-in-Residence, is scheduled to speak on creative practice and community connection. Additional remarks will be provided by BAC Board Chair Mike Zippel, Thompson, and Ceramics Studio Manager Lorimer Burns.

 

The event schedule begins at 6 p.m. with cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and the collaborative art experience. Community reflections are slated for 7:30 p.m., followed by a paddle raising and raffle at 8 p.m.