It’s time to loosen up, let your hair down, and GO WILD at The Arc Baltimore’s 17th Annual Art in the Round – the art exhibit and auction showcasing the talent and artistry of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Featuring more than 80 jury-selected paintings, drawings, sculptures, and ceramics from 60 artists on exhibit, this year’s Art in the Round will be held from 7-11 p.m. on Friday, October 19 at the Grand Lodge of Maryland (304 International Circle, Hunt Valley, MD).

As always, Art in the Round attendees will be looking for just the right piece that can become the centerpiece of their homes. In addition to bidding (and now, mobile bidding) for the artwork, though, attendees can enjoy a photo booth for souvenir pictures, an open bar featuring a specialty drink offering, and heavy hors d’oeuvres.

“Art in the Round gets bigger and better every year,” says The Arc Baltimore Executive Director, Kathleen M. Durkin. “It is easily The Arc’s most anticipated event.”

According to Durkin, proceeds from Art in the Round help The Arc Baltimore to support art classes, workshops, and other mission-related programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Featured artists receive 60 percent of the winning bid for each piece of art sold. In addition, The Arc Baltimore presents a financial award to the artist whose work is chosen to be used for next year’s Art in the Round promotional poster.

Artists have until September 13 to submit artwork for review. Artwork exhibited at Art in the Round will then be chosen by a selection committee of art enthusiasts from more than 200 pieces typically submitted.

More than 400 people are expected to attend this year’s Art in the Round, which is being chaired by community volunteers (names?). Tickets for Art in the Round are $75 per person and $700 for a reserved table of 10. Interested persons can also sponsor one of the Art in the Round artists for $150.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.thearcbaltimore.org. For more information, contact Lauren Seabolt at 410-296-2272, ext. 5220, or [email protected].

About The Arc Baltimore

Dedicated to providing advocacy and high quality, life-changing supports since 1949 in Baltimore City and Baltimore County, The Arc Baltimore supports more than 6,000 adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. As one of the nation's largest and most respected organizations of its kind, The Arc Baltimore is an indispensable resource, providing employment training and support, day and residential services, family support and education, treatment foster care, respite care, public policy advocacy and information, and referrals. For more information, visit www.thearcbaltimore.org or call 410-296-2272.