Some would say Judy Jones and Robin Proctor have mastered the art form of teamwork. Like a well-oiled machine, the two have fundraising down to a science. They have co-chaired Women for the Arts, Party with Picassos for the last 6 years and counting.
The contributions from Party With Picasso are insurmountable, most important is supporting The Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Center. Last year, they presented a check for $150,000 to TRAHC, and this year WFA provided funding to renovate the kitchen located in the Regional Arts Center, hoping to encourage patrons to hold fundraisers at the center.
This is something everyone needs to come see,” exclaimed Proctor. “We are so proud of the changes.”
WFA had new cabinets installed in the kitchen and storage room. They also supplied the RAC with new countertops, floors, and fresh paint. New state-of-the-art industrial warmers, refrigerators, freezers, and other appliances were donated, and the new stainless steel work tables and industrial ice maker will be useful for catered events in the future.
The WFA works hard to raise money for the community, in particular, downtown where the TRAHC building is located.
“The WFA/PWP’s financial support to TRAHC makes a huge difference for the arts,” said Proctor and Jones. “100% of all the money raised stays in the Texarkana region,” they emphasized.
One of the many programs WFA offers is the free art exhibits displayed at TRAHC at no cost to the public. They support free programs like Drop-In art classes, Artsmart, and the Art Wall outside the TRAHC building.
“These funds aid in creating an art-rich environment for so many people of all ages,” said Proctor.
Jones and Proctor enjoy seeing their hard work come to fruition. They plan year-round with other WFA board members to ensure everything runs smoothly and nothing falls through the cracks.
Working with other women to put on this event instills great pride in those involved. After six years, it’s too much fun to stop for Jones and Proctor.
Art is important in both of Jones and Proctors lives, respectively. Proctor is a life-long singer and enjoys entertaining. Jones is an art retired teacher and enjoys theatre, music, and visual arts, particularly pastels and acrylics.
The WFA ladies are dedicated to ensuring Texarkana has a thriving art community, with programs that are open to the public. All that hard work pays off each Spring when the local celebrities auction off their art.
Thee ladies find a few ways to have fun along the way. One of their favorite ways to channel their creative outlets is with the traditional skit to open up the auction. Last year, their western skit was recognized by Tito’s vodka in Austin, Texas and the ladies received complimentary Vodka for the party.
“Judy and I work like an extension of each other. We make a great team and we laugh a lot,” said Proctor.
If you would like to be a part of this unique fundraising art auction, tickets are still available.
High tea with Picassos-March 20,
Party with Tito’s at TRAHC-March 22,
Party with Picasso’s-March 24 at the Texas side convention center.
“Judy and I may chair PWP, but the success of the party is due to many wonderful WFA women’s hard work and dedication,” gushed Proctor.