Arts fun-raiser channels spirit of Mardi Gras

By Lanier Laney
In support of ARTworks, Beaufort’s community arts center, Mardi Gras is the grand annual fundraiser that uses the strength of a squeezebox and the zing of the washboard to get supporters of the arts moving and grooving. For 2012, the committee decided to take over the newly re-opened Shed in Port Royal, with a balcony in French Quarter style by artist Terry Brennan, a jazzy backdrop created by artist Rebecca Davenport, and the delicious tradition of jambalaya and white chocolate bread pudding by Berry Island. Revelers filled the Shed to capacity, finding their tables loaded with beads, masks, and scratch off tickets to determine the Kings and Queens. Led by artist-boardmember Deanna Bowdish in a stunning red gown, dancers filled the floor in front of Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers, direct from New Orleans, and guests took home spectacular art from the silent auction, including artworks donated by the Charles Street Gallery, glass artist Greg Rawls, woodworker Rex Hunter, multi-mediaist Hank Herring, and a much fought over blue crab assemblage by Terry Brennan. Thanks to all who attended and support the arts year round, and kudos to the committee, boardmembers and volunteers, including Claudette Humphrey, Helen Roper, Stacie Van Vulpen, CJ Norwood, Erika Pyle, Carolyn Carter and Barbara Kelly.  Photos by Richard Darby.