The second annual upscale event hosted by Rcamm Art and the Cammarata Family benefits Kids in Distress (KID). The organization supports at-risk children and families and is dedicated to preventing child abuse, preserving families and treating children who have been abused or neglected.
When Ross Cammarata, of Cammarata and Associates, a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial and founder of Rcamm Art, felt the desire to make a difference in the community he knew where he wanted to give back. “As a father of three children and a child of four growing up, I realized the importance of a loving upbringing and how difficult it can be to raise children in a caring household”, shares Cammarata. “Kids in Distress performs both at a very high level.”
Currently, KID consists of a multiple program campus on five-acres in Fort Lauderdale and another four-acre campus in Southwest Ranches featuring two family foster group homes. They offer services like foster care, preschool, aftercare and summer camp programs and family counseling.
Ross Cammarata has been a professional financial advisor on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale for nearly three decades and has always had a keen interest in finding a way to give back to the community. When the Cammarata and Associates Advisor met world renowned artist Duaiv on Las Olas Boulevard, they instantly created a friendship that eventually inspired him to want to take up art. “My vision started in August of 2020 when I bought my first Palette knife and started painting on canvas,” he says. That’s when the idea of the Fort Lauderdale Art Gala was born.
This year’s signature event will take place on December 12 at Coral Ridge Country Club from 6-9pm. At the black-tie optional event, guests will enjoy contemporary and collectible art including pieces by this year’s featured artist, Duaiv. There will also be live entertainment, delectable food offerings, drinks, luxury auction items, a raffle for a diamond tennis necklace donated by Robinsons Jewelers and much more.
Internationally known American French artist Duaiv has been making his mark in the art world for the last 50 years. His work has been displayed in galleries all over the world. His style of art transcends the boundaries of expressionism and impressionism. The gala will feature an Aston Martin DBX donated by Holman Motorcars inspired by Duaiv, painted by himself and Ross Cammarata.
The exotic car turned masterpiece, named Peinture Fondue (French for Melted Paint), will be displayed throughout Fort Lauderdale for 80 days and will conclude its tour at the Gala in December. These exclusive events include the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show Kick-Off Party hosted by Fort Lauderdale Magazine, Elevate hosted by Kids in Distress and events hosted by Holman Motorcars during the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The Bentley, Rolls-Royce and Aston Martin luxury dealership will be donating a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this vehicle to KID.
“My vision was to bring great people together for an intimate evening of exquisite food, drinks, and fine art to support a significant cause, Kids in Distress,” says Cammarata. “The Fort Lauderdale Art Gala was that indeed. Creating the Fort Lauderdale Art Gala was to bring the enjoyment of Art and Togetherness to Fort Lauderdale in a luxurious atmosphere to raise money for Philanthropy and specifically Kids in Distress.”
For more information, please visit fortlauderdaleartgala.com.
