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Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum Sets Garden Party Fundraising Record for Its Community Arts Programs

Art, music and community converge at UMLAUF’s 26th annual fundraiser supporting youth programs and public art in Austin

Kathryn Ross & Guests
Kathryn Ross & Guests at UMLAUF Garden Party (photo by Justin Leitner)

The UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum celebrated a milestone on April 17 during its 26th annual Garden Party, raising nearly $300,000—surpassing its fundraising goal and setting a new record for the event. Proceeds will directly fund the museum’s robust lineup of education and community engagement programs.

Smooth Nature
Smooth Nature Performing at UMLAUF Garden Party (photo by Justin Leitner)

Held within the lush grounds of the garden, the evening brought together over 600 attendees in support of the UMLAUF’s mission to make art accessible and meaningful to the Austin community. Guests enjoyed culinary offerings from 30 of Austin’s most iconic restaurants, complemented by premium cocktails and beverages provided by Twin Liquors and Tito’s Vodka. Live music by local band Smooth Nature added to the festive ambiance of the night.

Neptune Sushi
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Neptune Sushi (photo by Justin Leitner)
Jonathon Todd, Dale Huggins, and Victoria Pontiff
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Jonathon Todd, Dale Huggins, and Victoria Pontiff (photo by Justin Leitner)
Ciclo Restaurant
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Ciclo Restaurant (photo by Justin Leitner)
Garden Party Guests
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Garden Party Guests (photo by Justin Leitner)
Juliet’s Italian Kitchen
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Juliet’s Italian Kitchen (photo by Justin Leitner)
Garden Party Guests
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Garden Party Guests (photo by Justin Leitner)
Jennie Branch & Rob Kepple
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Jennie Branch & Rob Kepple (photo by Justin Leitner)

A significant portion of the evening’s success came from its live and silent auctions. The funds raised will support a variety of impactful programs, including Shaping Space, a free after-school sculpture initiative serving Title 1 schools; Family Days, bi-monthly community events featuring hands-on art-making and live performances; and Summer Camp, which offers 12 scholarships each year to children in the foster care system. Additionally, the Bronze Care Corps program will continue to connect the public with the preservation of Charles Umlauf’s artwork and Austin’s sculptural heritage.

The event’s success is a reflection of the city’s commitment to sustaining the arts and investing in inclusive cultural experiences. Supporters interested in contributing to the UMLAUF’s mission or learning more about its initiatives are encouraged to visit the museum’s website for donation opportunities.

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