Houstonians almost always show up for the arts. University of Houston’s Arts in Motion gala made that point loud and clear.
The school’s Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts welcomed supporters, artists, alumni and civic leaders to POST Houston. The evening celebrated creativity, community and the arts’ ability to move people.
The fête marks a decade of impact for the college. It also launches a year-long giving initiative tied to the University of Houston’s Centennial Campaign.
The fundraising effort focuses on supporting students where they create. It encourages investment in scholarships, facilities and new artistic work to shape the next generation.
A Night of Recognition and Momentum
Every good arts student knows every show has a star. One of the brightest on the Houston arts scene is certainly Beth Madison.
Madison was honored for her leadership and philanthropy, both of which have made a lasting impact on the arts. During the gala, she made a matching gift of $50,000. She became the first major contributor to the Arts in Motion anniversary campaign. Bar raised.
Distinguished creative alumnus Kenneth Radnofsky was also recognized. In addition, UH honored its Alumni on the Move, including Alexis Pye, Jacob Shideler, Kenneth Broberg and Alex Montoya. Each has made notable contributions across the arts and cultural sectors.
Art in Action
But what is an arts gala without art?
Through the Moving Press: An Exhibition and Print Sale provided to be a clear highlight of the night. This showcase featured works from UH students, alumni and faculty.
Live printmaking demonstrations brought energy to the space. Limited-edition works were available for purchase. The exhibition embodied the gala’s theme by reinforcing art as a living, evolving force.
Proceeds from the print sale directly benefit student scholarships.
By the end of the night, the gala raised more than $250,000 to benefit student scholarships, faculty initiatives and future-facing programs. Through a range of giving opportunities, from annual funds to endowed scholarships and unrestricted support, the campaign balances both immediate needs with longterm sustainability.
The future of the arts in Houston is already in motion. The momentum goes on.
PC Seen: McGovern College of the Arts Dean and the evening’s emcee Andrew Davis and his wife — the pianist Corey Tu; Blaffer Art Museum director and chief curator Dr. Laura Augusta; Public Art UHS executive director and chief curator Dr. Rachel Mohl with colleague Theresa Escobedo; POST Houston’s Frank Liu and son Kirby Liu; Skye and David Chao; UH Associate VP Rebecca Gentry; Dr. Cullen Geiselman Muse and Robert Muse; Heidi and David Gerger; Mary and Bernie Arocha with son Alexander Arocha; Beverly and John Berry; Jo Furr; Rothko Chapel’s Alecia Harris; gallerists Yvonne Garcia and Barbara Davis; Margaret Poissant; and artists Pat Masterson and Lauren Christlieb, whose printmaking prowess was on view.
Additional reporting for this story came from Catherine D. Anspon