Focus on the Masters presents For the Love of Art: 25th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, September 14, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., at Four Points by Sheraton in Ventura. The event will support Focus on the Masters’ community art enrichment, including their award-winning Learning to See Outreach that brings quality arts education to schools and community centers.

“We are soaring to new heights during our 25th year!” exclaims Executive Director Donna Granata. “Sharing our unique archive, with its valuable documentation of notable artists, with people of all ages contributes to a vibrant, culturally rich community.”

The Gala will reflect what FOTM is known for: bringing arts education and arts patrons together For the Love of Art. Gala attendees will have the opportunity to win original works of art by live or silent auction and imbibe in food and wine while listening to wonderful music.

Guests at the event will also be tempted by FOTM’s ever-popular $20 Celebration Boxes, each one containing at least $25 in a variety of gift certificates, jewelry items, books, visits with artists and small art works.

In addition to presenting programs for adults with mental illness and to the general public by way of the informative Artist Spotlight interviews, FOTM’s award-winning Learning To See program brings compelling lessons to students in area schools. Program Director Aimee French explains: “These boys and girls are introduced to local artists and their work. They see how an understanding of art and the discipline involved in the creative process can help them not only in school but throughout life. The future of our planet depends on creative solutions applied to technology.”

“The arts must be incorporated into our daily lives – now more than ever.” comments Donna Granata. “Art actually builds empathy. When we see the world through another’s eyes, we can understand their challenges. An empathetic person – child or adult – will not accept the dehumanization of others. Without art, without empathy, we can easily become ignorant and cruel. Art is so much more than a pretty picture on a wall, so much more than a play or a novel or a song. Open the door to art and you open the door to a more just community.”